Our Roasted Carrots (With Hot Honey Glaze) recipe turns simple carrots into an irresistible side dish. The sweet and spicy glaze elevates their flavor, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a cozy dinner or a festive gathering, these roasted carrots will surely impress your guests with their fork-tender texture and delightful taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe requires minimal prep time and is straightforward, making it ideal for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs.
• Flavorful Glaze: The hot honey glaze adds a unique, sweet-spicy kick that complements the natural sweetness of the carrots.
• Versatile Side Dish: Perfect for any meal, these roasted carrots can accompany everything from grilled meats to hearty grain bowls.
• Healthy Option: Packed with nutrients, carrots are a great addition to your diet, providing vitamins and fiber without excess calories.
• Eye-Catching Presentation: The vibrant color and glossy finish make these carrots a beautiful addition to any table setting.

Tools and Preparation

To create these delicious roasted carrots, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and ensures fantastic results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking tray
• Small saucepan
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking tray: A sturdy baking tray allows for even roasting of the carrots while providing enough space for air circulation.
• Small saucepan: This is perfect for simmering the hot honey glaze, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
• Sharp knife: A sharp knife makes it easy to chop the carrots uniformly, ensuring they cook evenly.
• Mixing bowl: Use this for tossing the carrots with oil and seasoning before roasting.

this recipe

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you’ll need for our Roasted Carrots (With Hot Honey Glaze).

• 2 pounds carrots
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic
• ½ teaspoon salt (or more to taste)
• ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ cup water
• ¼ cup honey
• 1 – 2 tablespoons hot sauce (gochujang, harissa, sriracha, or Tabasco)
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (+ 1 pinch salt)

How to Make Roasted Carrots (With Hot Honey Glaze)

Step 1: Pre-Bake the Carrots

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Peel and chop the 2 pounds of carrots into even bite-sized pieces. Toss them in a mixing bowl with 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ⅛ teaspoon of black pepper. Spread them out on a baking tray without overlapping. Pour in ½ cup of water; this helps speed up cooking without pre-boiling. Bake for 20 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Hot Honey Glaze

In a small saucepan, combine ¼ cup of honey, 1 – 2 tablespoons of hot sauce, ½ teaspoon of smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt. Simmer on medium heat for about 2–3 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar. Set aside.

Step 3: Glaze & Roast

Remove the carrots from the oven. Drain any excess water from the baking tray. Toss the carrots with half of the hot honey sauce until evenly coated. Add in 2 cloves of crushed garlic. Return to the oven and bake for another 20 minutes or until they are fork-tender and caramelized. Reserve any remaining hot honey sauce for serving.

Step 4: Serving Suggestions

These roasted carrots are fantastic served over whipped ricotta drizzled with remaining hot honey sauce and topped with toasted chopped pistachios. You can also enjoy them simply sprinkled with fresh parsley. They are an excellent side dish for cozy dinners or as a bold addition to grain bowls and salads.

How to Serve Roasted Carrots (With Hot Honey Glaze)

Serving roasted carrots can elevate your meal with their vibrant color and sweet, spicy flavor. Here are some creative ways to enjoy these delicious carrots.

Over Whipped Ricotta

• Pair the carrots with creamy whipped ricotta for a rich contrast. Drizzle with leftover hot honey glaze for added sweetness.

With Toasted Nuts

• Top your roasted carrots with toasted chopped pistachios or walnuts. This adds a crunchy texture that complements the tender carrots beautifully.

In Grain Bowls

• Incorporate roasted carrots into grain bowls. They pair well with quinoa, farro, or rice, adding a sweet and spicy kick to your dish.

As a Standalone Side

• Enjoy the carrots on their own as a side dish. A sprinkle of fresh parsley enhances their appearance and adds freshness.

In Salads

• Toss roasted carrots into salads for extra flavor and nutrition. They work well with leafy greens, feta cheese, and a tangy vinaigrette.

With Dipping Sauces

• Serve the carrots alongside yogurt-based or tahini dips. These sauces add creaminess and complement the heat from the hot honey glaze.

How to Perfect Roasted Carrots (With Hot Honey Glaze)

Perfecting roasted carrots is all about technique and timing. Follow these tips for the best results.

• Uniform Sizing: Cut your carrots into even pieces for consistent cooking. This ensures all pieces become fork-tender at the same time.

• High Heat: Roast at 425°F (220°C) to caramelize the sugars in the carrots. This creates a deliciously sweet crust.

• Use Water Wisely: Adding water to the baking tray helps steam the carrots initially, keeping them moist before they caramelize.

• Glaze Generously: When tossing in the hot honey glaze, make sure each piece is well-coated for maximum flavor.

• Don’t Overcrowd: Spread out your carrots on the baking tray without overlapping. This promotes even roasting and browning.

• Adjust Spice Levels: Modify the amount of hot sauce in your glaze based on your heat preference to tailor it to your taste.

Best Side Dishes for Roasted Carrots (With Hot Honey Glaze)

Pairing side dishes with roasted carrots can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes flavored with garlic offer comfort and balance against the spicy sweetness of the carrots.

2. Braised Greens: Sautéed kale or Swiss chard provides a hearty, nutritious companion that complements the flavors of roasted carrots.

3. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad mixed with cranberries and nuts adds both texture and a burst of flavor next to roasted carrots.

4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts seasoned with balsamic vinegar create a delightful contrast to tender glazed carrots.

5. Grilled Chicken Breast: Juicy chicken breast seasoned simply allows the flavors of both dishes to shine without overpowering one another.

6. Couscous Pilaf: Fluffy couscous mixed with herbs and lemon zest pairs well with roasted vegetables, creating a light yet satisfying dish.

7. Creamy Polenta: Smooth polenta topped with grated cheese offers richness that balances out the spicy notes of the hot honey glaze.

8. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with rice, beans, or lentils provide a hearty addition that complements roasted vegetables nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making roasted carrots with hot honey glaze, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Using unevenly cut carrots: Carrots should be cut into uniform pieces for even cooking. This ensures that they roast properly and reach the same level of tenderness.

• Skipping the water step: Adding water before roasting helps steam the carrots, making them tender faster. Omitting this step can lead to dry or unevenly cooked carrots.

• Not draining excess water: After pre-baking, it’s important to drain any leftover water before adding the glaze. This allows the glaze to stick better and enhances caramelization.

• Overcooking or undercooking: Keep an eye on your carrots during roasting. They should be fork-tender but not mushy. Adjust your baking time based on thickness.

• Ignoring the glaze: The hot honey glaze is what makes this dish special. Make sure to coat the carrots evenly and reserve some for serving to elevate the flavors.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow roasted carrots to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Roasted Carrots (With Hot Honey Glaze)

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag.
• Best used within 2 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Roasted Carrots (With Hot Honey Glaze)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), spread carrots on a baking tray, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place carrots in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Sauté in a pan over medium heat until heated evenly, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about roasted carrots with hot honey glaze:

How do I choose the best carrots for roasting?

Look for firm, smooth carrots without blemishes. Organic options often have better flavor and sweetness.

Can I use other vegetables with this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with other root vegetables like parsnips or sweet potatoes alongside your roasted carrots.

What can I serve with roasted carrots (with hot honey glaze)?

These delicious glazed carrots pair well with various proteins like chicken or turkey and complement grain bowls beautifully.

How spicy are these roasted carrots?

The spice level depends on the amount of hot sauce you use. Start with one tablespoon if you’re unsure, then adjust according to your taste preference.

Final Thoughts

Roasted carrots with hot honey glaze are not just tasty; they also bring versatility to your table. You can customize this recipe by adjusting the spice level or trying different glazes. Whether served as a side dish at dinner or as part of a vibrant salad, these flavorful bites are sure to impress anyone who tries them!

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Roasted Carrots (With Hot Honey Glaze)

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x

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Description

Transform ordinary carrots into an extraordinary side dish with this Roasted Carrots with Hot Honey Glaze recipe. The combination of a sweet and spicy glaze elevates the natural sweetness of the carrots, creating a vibrant dish that’s perfect for any occasion—from intimate dinners to festive gatherings. This easy-to-follow recipe requires minimal prep, making it accessible for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. With their fork-tender texture and eye-catching presentation, these roasted carrots are sure to impress your guests while being packed with nutrients.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 pounds carrots
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ cup water
• ¼ cup honey
• 1 – 2 tablespoons hot sauce (your choice)
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Peel and chop the carrots into even-sized pieces. Toss them in a mixing bowl with olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Spread on a baking tray with water added, ensuring they’re not overlapping. Bake for 20 minutes.
2. While baking, make the hot honey glaze by combining honey, hot sauce, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt in a small saucepan over medium heat for about 2–3 minutes. Stir in apple cider vinegar after removing from heat.
3. After 20 minutes, drain excess water from the carrots and toss them with half of the hot honey glaze and crushed garlic. Return to the oven for another 20 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
4. Serve your delicious roasted carrots drizzled with the remaining hot honey glaze or alongside whipped ricotta.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
• Calories: 130
• Sugar: 18g
• Sodium: 170mg
• Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 0.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 1g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Adjust the level of hot sauce based on your spice preference. For added crunch, top with toasted nuts before serving.