Roasted Carrots with Honey Butter is a delightful dish that combines the earthiness of the root vegetables with the sweetness of honey and richness of butter. This recipe is straightforward but brings out the best in the humble carrot, transforming it into a dish that's perfect for a side or a healthy snack.
All of the ingredients for Roasted Carrots with Honey Butter are generally easily found in most homes. However, if you're not in the habit of using honey in your cooking, you'll need to pick up a jar from the supermarket. Choose a good quality honey as it will greatly enhance the sweetness and overall flavor of the dish.
Ingredients for Roasted Carrots with Honey Butter
Carrots: These are the star of the dish. They are roasted to bring out their natural sweetness.
Olive oil: Used to coat the carrots before roasting, it helps them cook evenly and gives them a nice finish.
Salt: Used to season the carrots and bring out their flavor.
Unsalted butter: Melted and mixed with honey to create a sweet and rich coating for the carrots.
Honey: Adds a lovely sweetness that pairs well with the carrots and contrasts the salt.
Black pepper: Adds a slight kick to the dish, balancing out the sweet and savory elements.
One reader, Elinor Valladares says:
These roasted carrots with honey butter are a game-changer! The sweetness of the honey butter perfectly complements the natural sweetness of the carrots. The roasting brings out their natural flavors, and the dish is a delightful addition to any meal. I highly recommend trying this recipe!
Key Techniques for Perfectly Roasted Carrots
How to roast the carrots: The carrots should be cut into uniform pieces and tossed with olive oil and salt before being spread onto a baking sheet and roasted at 425 degrees Fahrenheit until tender and browned.
How to make honey butter: Melt the unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium heat, swirling occasionally until it turns faintly golden. Remove from heat and stir in the honey until well combined.
How to serve the roasted carrots with honey butter: Transfer the roasted carrots to a serving bowl or platter while still hot, then pour the honey butter over them. Toss to coat, season with black pepper, and serve.
How To Make Roasted Carrots with Honey Butter
Make your side dishes more tasteful with our roasted carrots! It’s coated in a sweet honey butter, and made in just 30 minutes.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1½lbscarrots
- 2tspolive oil
- ½tspsalt
- 1tbspunsalted butter
- 1tbsphoney
- black pepperfreshly ground
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F.
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Cut the carrots in half width-wise. Then cut them vertically into halves or even quarters to form long, uniform pieces.
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On a large, rimmed baking sheet, toss the carrots with the olive oil and salt.
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Spread them into a single layer and roast, stirring halfway, until browned and tender, for 33 to 40 minutes, depending on their size.
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In the smallest saucepan or small skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and cook, swirling the pan occasionally, until just faintly golden, for 2 minutes.
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Remove the pan from the heat then stir in the honey.
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Transfer the roasted carrots to a serving bowl or platter while still hot, then pour the honey butter over them.
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Toss to coat and season with a sprinkle of pepper.
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Serve, and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 108.78kcal
- Fat: 5.41g
- Saturated Fat: 2.18g
- Trans Fat: 0.12g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 2.41g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.48g
- Carbohydrates: 15.44g
- Fiber: 3.28g
- Sugar: 9.69g
- Protein: 1.14g
- Cholesterol: 7.63mg
- Sodium: 290.31mg
- Calcium: 40.48mg
- Potassium: 371.72mg
- Iron: 0.42mg
- Vitamin A: 971.26µg
- Vitamin C: 6.72mg
Pro Tip for Achieving Caramelized Perfection
When roasting carrots, it's important to cut them into uniform pieces. This ensures that they all cook at the same rate, preventing some from being overcooked while others are still hard. Additionally, tossing them in olive oil before roasting helps them to caramelize and develop a deep, sweet flavor. Lastly, remember to stir the carrots halfway through the roasting process. This promotes even cooking and browning.
Time-Saving Tips for Honey Butter Roasted Carrots
Prep ahead: Chop and peel the carrots the night before and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will save time on the day of cooking.
Use pre-cut carrots: If you're short on time, consider using pre-cut carrots from the grocery store. This can significantly reduce prep time.
High heat: Roast the carrots at a higher temperature, around 425°F, to speed up the cooking process and achieve a delicious caramelization.
Multi-task: While the carrots are roasting, prepare the honey butter sauce to maximize efficiency in the kitchen.
Check for doneness: To save time, check the carrots for doneness after 30 minutes of roasting to avoid overcooking.
Substitute Ingredients For Roasted Carrots with Honey Butter Recipe
carrots - Substitute with parsnips: Parsnips have a similar earthy sweetness and can be roasted in the same way as carrots, providing a delicious alternative.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a mild flavor, making it a suitable replacement for olive oil in this recipe.
unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can add a rich, slightly sweet flavor to the dish, complementing the honey and carrots.
honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup offers a similar sweetness and caramelized flavor when roasted, making it a great alternative to honey.
black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a milder flavor and can provide a different dimension of heat and aroma to the dish.
Presentation Ideas for Honey Roasted Carrots
Elevate the plating: Arrange the roasted carrots in a visually appealing manner, ensuring they are evenly spaced and positioned for an attractive presentation.
Incorporate color contrast: Introduce vibrant elements such as a sprinkle of finely chopped parsley or microgreens to add a pop of color against the roasted carrots, creating a visually striking dish.
Utilize elegant serving ware: Select sophisticated and refined serving dishes or platters that complement the natural beauty of the roasted carrots, enhancing the overall presentation.
Garnish with edible flowers: Introduce delicate, edible flowers such as nasturtiums or pansies to add a touch of elegance and a subtle floral aroma to the dish.
Add a drizzle of honey butter: Skillfully drizzle the honey butter over the carrots in an artistic manner, ensuring it enhances the visual appeal without overwhelming the dish.
Incorporate textural elements: Introduce a contrasting textural element, such as a sprinkle of toasted nuts or seeds, to add depth and complexity to the dish.
Emphasize precision: Pay close attention to the placement of each component, ensuring that every detail is meticulously executed to showcase culinary expertise and attention to detail.
Highlight the natural beauty of the carrots: Allow the vibrant orange hues of the roasted carrots to take center stage, ensuring that the presentation celebrates the simplicity and elegance of the main ingredient.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Roasted Carrots
- Cutting board: A flat, sturdy surface for cutting and preparing ingredients.
- Chef's knife: A versatile, all-purpose knife for chopping, slicing, and dicing.
- Baking sheet: A rimmed sheet pan for roasting the carrots in the oven.
- Saucepan or small skillet: Used for melting the butter and honey to create the honey butter sauce.
- Serving bowl or platter: A vessel for presenting and serving the roasted carrots with honey butter.
Storage and Freezing Guidelines for Roasted Carrots
- Let the roasted carrots cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. They will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- To reheat, simply spread the carrots on a baking sheet and warm them in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them in the microwave, but they may lose some of their crisp texture.
- If you want to freeze the honey butter glazed carrots, follow these steps:
- Spread the cooled carrots on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure they aren't touching each other.
- Place the baking sheet in the freezer for about an hour, or until the carrots are frozen solid.
- Transfer the frozen carrots to a freezer-safe bag or container, label it with the date, and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- To reheat, spread the frozen carrots on a baking sheet and warm them in a 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You may need to stir them halfway through to ensure even heating.
- Keep in mind that freezing the roasted carrots may cause them to lose some of their texture and flavor, but they will still be delicious and nutritious. If you plan to freeze them, you may want to undercook them slightly so they don't become too soft when reheated.
How To Reheat Leftover Honey Butter Carrots
To reheat leftover roasted carrots in the oven, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the carrots on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Drizzle a little bit of olive oil over the carrots and toss them gently to coat. Cover the baking sheet with foil and place it in the preheated oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until the carrots are heated through and slightly crispy on the outside.
For a quicker reheating method, you can use the microwave. Place the leftover roasted carrots in a microwave-safe dish and add a tablespoon of water to the bottom of the dish. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape. Microwave the carrots on high for 1-2 minutes, or until they are heated through. Be careful when removing the dish from the microwave, as it may be hot.
If you want to add a fresh burst of flavor to your reheated roasted carrots, consider making a new batch of honey butter to drizzle over them. Simply melt a tablespoon of unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium heat, then stir in a tablespoon of honey. Pour the honey butter over the reheated carrots and toss gently to coat.
For a crispy texture, you can also reheat the roasted carrots in an air fryer. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the carrots in the basket. Drizzle a little bit of olive oil over the carrots and toss them gently to coat. Air fry the carrots for 3-5 minutes, or until they are heated through and slightly crispy on the outside.
If you have a lot of leftover roasted carrots, consider repurposing them into a new dish. Chop the carrots into small pieces and add them to a soup, stew, or salad. You can also mash the carrots with some butter, cream, and seasonings to make a delicious carrot mash side dish.
Interesting Trivia About Honey Roasted Carrots
The roasted carrots with honey butter recipe is a delicious and healthy side dish. It's a great way to enjoy the natural sweetness of carrots with a touch of savory and sweet flavors. The combination of roasted carrots, honey butter, and a sprinkle of black pepper creates a delightful taste that complements many main dishes. This recipe is a simple yet impressive addition to any meal, and it's a fantastic way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. Plus, it's a versatile dish that can be enjoyed year-round, making it a go-to option for gatherings and everyday meals. Try it out!
Budget-Friendly: Roasted Carrots with Honey Butter
This roasted carrots with honey butter recipe is highly cost-effective for a household. Carrots are budget-friendly, and the additional ingredients are commonly found in most kitchens. The dish offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures, making it a versatile and satisfying addition to any meal. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $5-$7, making it an economical choice. Overall Verdict: 9/10
Are Honey Butter Roasted Carrots Healthy?
This roasted carrots with honey butter recipe is a relatively healthy side dish. Carrots are an excellent source of beta-carotene, fiber, vitamin K1, potassium, and antioxidants. Roasting them enhances their natural sweetness and flavor. The addition of olive oil provides healthy monounsaturated fats, while the small amount of butter and honey adds a touch of indulgence without overwhelming the dish's nutritional value.
However, there are a few ways to make this recipe even healthier:
- Reduce the amount of butter and honey to lower the calorie and sugar content
- Use a heart-healthy oil like avocado oil instead of olive oil for roasting
- Experiment with different spices and herbs, such as cumin, thyme, or rosemary, to add flavor without relying on added sugars
- Pair the roasted carrots with a lean protein source and a whole grain to create a balanced meal
To take this dish to the next level, consider these creative twists:
- Drizzle the roasted carrots with a tangy yogurt sauce made with Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and fresh herbs
- Toss the carrots with a mixture of honey, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar before roasting for a sweet and tangy flavor profile
- Sprinkle the finished dish with toasted nuts or seeds for added crunch and healthy fats
- Serve the carrots over a bed of quinoa or farro for a satisfying and nutrient-packed vegetarian main course
Editor's Take: Roasted Carrots with Honey Butter
The roasted carrots with honey butter recipe is a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors. The caramelized carrots are perfectly tender and the honey butter adds a rich and luxurious touch. The simple yet elegant preparation allows the natural sweetness of the carrots to shine through, making it a versatile side dish for any occasion. The addition of black pepper provides a subtle hint of heat, balancing the sweetness of the honey butter. This dish is a wonderful way to elevate the humble carrot into a sophisticated and delicious treat.
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Why trust this Roasted Carrots with Honey Butter Recipe:
This roasted carrots with honey butter recipe is a perfect balance of savory and sweet, creating a delightful flavor experience. The carrots are roasted to perfection, bringing out their natural sweetness, while the addition of honey butter adds a rich and luscious glaze. The use of high-quality olive oil and unsalted butter ensures a wholesome and delicious result. With a simple yet elegant preparation, this recipe showcases the beauty of real and fresh ingredients. Trust in the simplicity and authenticity of this recipe to elevate your dining experience.
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