Honey Balsamic Roasted Carrots

Name: Honey Balsamic Roasted Carrots
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb baby carrots, peeled and trimmed; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 tablespoons honey; 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Fresh & Light

I absolutely love how these Honey Balsamic Roasted Carrots bring a touch of sweetness and tang to my dinner table. Roasting them brings out their natural sugars, creating a caramelized exterior that pairs beautifully with the rich balsamic glaze. This dish has become a favorite in my home because it's easy to make and always impresses guests. With just a few simple ingredients, I can create a side dish that's both elegant and comforting, making it perfect for weeknight dinners and special occasions alike.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-02-07T20:34:28.628Z

When I first tried Honey Balsamic Roasted Carrots, I was amazed at how easy it was to elevate such a simple vegetable. The combination of honey and balsamic vinegar creates a delightful glaze that not only enhances the flavor but also adds a stunning presentation to the dish. I've tried various seasonings, but this sweet and sour mix never fails to impress!

One detail that I’ve learned is to ensure the carrots are evenly cut for uniform cooking. If you want them to be extra tender, parboiling them for a few minutes before roasting can make a significant difference. Trust me, this step is well worth it!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
The perfect balance of sweetness from honey and acidity from balsamic vinegar
A colorful, eye-catching side dish that complements any meal
Easy to prepare with minimal cleanup, perfect for busy weeknights

The Magic of Roasting

Roasting carrots at high heat not only enhances their flavor but also transforms their texture. As they cook, the natural sugars caramelize, creating a beautiful golden-brown exterior. This roasting process intensifies their sweetness, which is further complemented by the honey and balsamic vinegar. Make sure to toss the carrots halfway through cooking to ensure even caramelization; they should be tender and slightly sticky when they come out of the oven.

For the best results, consider using a combination of baby carrots and larger ones that you cut into similar sizes. This creates a pleasing visual contrast and allows for a more uniform cooking process. When arranging the carrots on the baking sheet, avoid overcrowding; leaving space between the pieces helps them roast rather than steam, leading to that desired crispness and caramelization.

Ingredient Insights

Choosing fresh, high-quality ingredients can elevate this dish significantly. Look for vibrant, firm baby carrots without blemishes for the best sweetness and texture. While baby carrots work beautifully, you can also use regular carrots cut into sticks; just keep an eye on cooking time since larger pieces may require additional roasting.

Balsamic vinegar brings a tangy richness that balances the sweetness of honey. If you're looking for a substitute, consider using apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar mixed with a touch of sugar for a similar effect. Additionally, if honey isn't available, maple syrup can provide a delightful alternative, although the final flavor profile will shift slightly.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create your delicious Honey Balsamic Roasted Carrots:

Ingredients

1 lb baby carrots, peeled and trimmed
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish (optional)

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let's get started!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Honey Balsamic Roasted Carrots:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Prepare the Carrots

In a large bowl, combine the baby carrots with olive oil, honey, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Toss until the carrots are well coated.

Arrange on Baking Sheet

Spread the coated carrots in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Roast the Carrots

Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the carrots are tender and caramelized, tossing halfway through.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.

Enjoy your beautifully roasted carrots!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, add a splash of orange juice to the honey-balsamic mixture before tossing with the carrots.

Make-Ahead Tips

These Honey Balsamic Roasted Carrots can be prepared in advance, making them an excellent choice for meal prep. You can clean, peel, and cut the carrots up to two days ahead. Store them in a sealed container in the refrigerator, and when ready to cook, simply toss with the olive oil, honey, and balsamic vinegar just before roasting.

If you're looking to save time on the day of an event, consider roasting the carrots a few hours ahead of time. They can be kept warm in a low oven (around 200°F or 93°C) until you’re ready to serve. Just be cautious not to leave them too long; they may lose some of their crispness.

Serving Suggestions

These carrots are incredibly versatile and can pair beautifully with a variety of main dishes. They complement roasted meats, such as chicken or pork, lending a sweet and tangy contrast. For a vegetarian meal, serve them alongside quinoa or a hearty grain salad to create a well-rounded plate.

To elevate your serving experience, consider drizzling additional balsamic glaze over the finished dish for an extra touch of flavor and a glossy finish. You can also sprinkle some toasted nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for added crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the sweetness of the carrots perfectly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular carrots instead of baby carrots?

Yes, just make sure to cut them into evenly sized pieces to ensure even cooking.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the carrots and glaze ahead of time, then roast them just before serving.

→ What can I substitute for honey?

You can substitute maple syrup for a vegan option with a similar taste.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover roasted carrots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.