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Honey Glazed Carrots with Fresh Thyme

honey glazed carrots - featured image

A quick and easy side dish featuring tender roasted carrots glazed with honey and fresh thyme, perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450 grams) fresh carrots, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch sticks or rounds
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) pure honey
  • 2 teaspoons (about 1 tablespoon fresh leaves) fresh thyme, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon (14 grams) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon (about 3 grams) salt
  • Pinch of freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon (5 ml) lemon juice (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Peel about 1 pound (450 grams) of carrots, then cut them into 1/2-inch (1.3 cm) thick sticks or rounds, keeping pieces uniform.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the carrots with 1 tablespoon (15 ml) olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon (3 grams) salt, and a pinch of freshly ground black pepper. Mix well to coat every piece.
  4. Spread the carrots out in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until tender and lightly caramelized.
  5. While the carrots roast, melt 1 tablespoon (14 grams) unsalted butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir in 2 tablespoons (30 ml) honey and 2 teaspoons (1 tablespoon fresh leaves) chopped fresh thyme. Warm gently for 2-3 minutes until honey is runny and thyme releases aroma. Add 1 teaspoon (5 ml) lemon juice if using, and stir.
  6. Once the carrots are roasted, transfer them back into the mixing bowl. Pour the warm honey thyme glaze over the carrots and toss gently but thoroughly to coat each piece.
  7. Optional: Spread the glazed carrots back on the baking sheet and roast for an additional 5 minutes for a stickier finish.
  8. Transfer the honey glazed carrots with fresh thyme to a serving platter. Scatter a few extra fresh thyme leaves on top. Serve warm and enjoy immediately.

Notes

Use fresh thyme for best flavor; dried thyme can be substituted but is less vibrant. For a dairy-free version, replace butter with coconut oil and honey with maple syrup for vegan adaptation. Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet to ensure proper caramelization. Toss carrots gently with glaze to prevent breaking. Optional second roast after glazing enhances stickiness and caramelization.

Nutrition

Keywords: honey glazed carrots, fresh thyme, roasted carrots, easy side dish, healthy vegetables, holiday side, quick recipe