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When it comes to side dishes that effortlessly elevate a meal, Sweet & Savory Balsamic Honey Roasted Carrots stand out as a delightful option. This recipe perfectly balances the natural sweetness of carrots with the tangy depth of balsamic vinegar and the smooth richness of honey, creating a dish that is both appealing to the palate and pleasing to the eye. Roasted carrots not only provide a vibrant pop of color to your plate but also add a complex flavor profile that complements a wide array of main courses, from roasted meats to vegetarian entrees.

Balsamic Honey Roasted Carrots

Elevate your meals with Sweet & Savory Balsamic Honey Roasted Carrots, a side dish that beautifully balances the natural sweetness of carrots with tangy balsamic vinegar and rich honey. Perfect for casual dinners or festive feasts, these vibrant carrots not only add color but also a complex flavor profile to complement any main dish. With simple preparation steps and versatile serving options, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and the health benefits of fresh ingredients in every bite.

Ingredients
  

1 lb baby carrots (or regular carrots, peeled and cut into sticks about 1-2 inches long)

3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

2 tablespoons honey

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon sea salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon fresh rosemary (or ½ teaspoon dried rosemary)

Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C), ensuring it’s hot enough to achieve a nice caramelized finish on the carrots.

    Prepare the Carrots: If you’re using regular carrots, wash them thoroughly, peel off the skin, and cut them into sticks that are approximately 1-2 inches long. For baby carrots, simply give them a good rinse under cool water to clean.

      Make the Glaze: In a medium mixing bowl, combine 3 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar, 2 tablespoons of honey, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of sea salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon of fresh rosemary (or ½ teaspoon of dried rosemary). Whisk these ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and well combined, creating a delicious glaze.

        Toss the Carrots: Add the prepared carrots to the bowl with the glaze. Gently toss the carrots until they are evenly coated with the flavorful mixture, ensuring each piece is generously glazed.

          Arrange on Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup. Spread the glazed carrots onto the baking sheet in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd them, which will promote even roasting.

            Roast the Carrots: Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and roast the carrots for 20-25 minutes. Halfway through the cooking time, flip the carrots to ensure uniform browning and tenderness. They should be beautifully caramelized and tender when finished.

              Serve: Once roasted, carefully remove the carrots from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. If you like, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor just before serving.

                Enjoy: Serve the sweet and savory carrots warm alongside your favorite protein dish, or toss them atop a fresh salad for a vibrant addition!

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 35 minutes | 4 servings