Honey Balsamic Roasted Carrots Recipe
Honey Balsamic Roasted Carrots are a deliciously sweet and tangy side dish featuring tender carrots roasted to perfection and coated with a flavorful blend of balsamic vinegar, honey, garlic, and thyme. Finished with a drizzle of extra sauce and optional crumbled goat cheese, this recipe delivers a perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors that complement any meal.
- Author: Ava
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Carrots
- 1 lb. carrots, washed and peeled (or unpeeled)
Marinade and Seasoning
- 1 Tbsp avocado oil (or olive oil)
- 2 Tbsp balsamic vinegar, divided
- 2 Tbsp honey, divided
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- ¼ tsp salt, plus more to taste
- Cracked black pepper, to taste
Topping (Optional)
- ¼ cup goat cheese, crumbled
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Prepare Carrots: Trim both ends off the carrots. Slice the carrots diagonally on the bias into thirds or approximately 1½ inch pieces. If some pieces are too large, slice them lengthwise in half for even roasting. Place the cut carrots into a large bowl.
- Mix Marinade and Coat Carrots: In the bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar, 1 tablespoon honey, and the avocado oil. Add the minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, and cracked black pepper. Toss everything together thoroughly so the carrots are fully coated with the marinade.
- Arrange Carrots on Baking Sheet: Using a slotted spoon, transfer the carrots onto the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, ensuring they are spaced out for even roasting. Reserve the leftover marinade in the bowl.
- Roast Carrots: Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast for 20-25 minutes until the carrots are tender when pierced with a fork. During the last 5-10 minutes of roasting, brush the reserved marinade over the carrots to enhance flavor and glaze.
- Prepare Drizzle Sauce: While the carrots roast, mix the remaining 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar and 1 tablespoon honey. After roasting, drizzle this sauce over the hot carrots. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if desired.
- Serve: Toss the carrots gently to coat with the final drizzle and serve immediately. Optionally, sprinkle crumbled goat cheese on top to add a creamy, tangy contrast that pairs beautifully with the roasted carrots.
Notes
- For a vegan version, omit the goat cheese or substitute with a vegan cheese alternative.
- You can use olive oil in place of avocado oil without affecting the recipe.
- Adjust the honey amount for more or less sweetness according to your preference.
- Make sure to slice carrots evenly for uniform roasting.
- Leftover roasted carrots can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
Keywords: Honey balsamic roasted carrots, roasted carrots recipe, sweet roasted carrots, easy side dish, balsamic vinegar carrots, honey glazed carrots