Sweet Garlic Carrots are a simple yet flavorful side dish that features tender roasted carrots glazed with a rich combination of garlic and honey. This recipe transforms everyday carrots into a sweet and savory treat that’s perfect for pairing with nearly any main course.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect blend of sweet and savory
- Only a few basic ingredients required
- Roasted to enhance natural flavor
- Easy to prepare and great for weeknights
- Kid-friendly and ideal for holidays or gatherings
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Carrots, peeled and cut into sticks or rounds
- Garlic cloves, finely minced
- Honey
- Unsalted butter
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Fresh parsley or thyme (optional for garnish)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a small saucepan, melt butter with olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
- Stir in honey, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat.
- Toss carrots with the sweet garlic mixture until well coated.
- Spread carrots in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Roast for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until tender and caramelized.
- Garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and serve warm.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Variations
- Use maple syrup instead of honey for a different kind of sweetness
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick
- Try baby carrots for a no-chop option
- Add citrus zest (like orange or lemon) for brightness
- Roast with other root vegetables for variety
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes or microwave for 1–2 minutes
- Freezing: Not recommended, as carrots may become mushy upon thawing
FAQs
Can I use baby carrots instead of chopped carrots?
Yes, baby carrots are a convenient substitute and require no peeling or chopping.
Do I have to peel the carrots?
Peeling is optional. Scrub them clean if you prefer to leave the skins on.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, use vegan butter or olive oil and replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely. Roast the carrots ahead of time and reheat when ready to serve.
Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
Yes, but fresh garlic offers a stronger, richer flavor. Use about ½ teaspoon garlic powder as a substitute.
Will this work with other vegetables?
Yes, try it with parsnips, sweet potatoes, or even Brussels sprouts.
How do I know when the carrots are done?
They should be fork-tender and lightly browned on the edges.
Can I cook this dish on the stovetop?
Yes, sauté the carrots over medium heat until tender, about 15–20 minutes.
What kind of honey should I use?
Any variety works, but a mild-flavored honey like clover is ideal for balance.
What can I serve these carrots with?
They pair wonderfully with roast chicken, pork chops, grilled tofu, or holiday roasts.
Conclusion
Sweet Garlic Carrots are a beautifully balanced side dish that brings out the natural sweetness of carrots with the rich depth of garlic and honey. Easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser, they’re a go-to for weeknight meals and special occasions alike. Try them once, and they’re sure to become a staple on your table.
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Sweet Garlic Carrots
- 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
Description
Sweet Garlic Carrots are a flavorful and healthy side dish featuring tender carrots glazed with a sweet and savory garlic sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday meals.
Ingredients
- 1 lb carrots, peeled and cut into sticks
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, toss the carrots with olive oil, garlic, honey, brown sugar, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Spread the carrots in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Roast for 20-25 minutes, turning once halfway through, until carrots are tender and caramelized.
- Remove from oven and garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
- Use baby carrots for a shortcut—no peeling or chopping needed.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- This dish pairs well with roasted meats or grains like quinoa.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg