Easy Balsamic Roasted Carrots
Easy Balsamic Roasted Carrots are a simple and flavorful side dish featuring perfectly caramelized carrots coated in a tangy balsamic glaze with hints of honey and garlic. This healthy, vibrant recipe transforms humble carrots into a delicious accompaniment suitable for any meal, ready in about 30 minutes.
- Author: Emilly
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh medium-sized carrots, washed, peeled, and sliced into sticks or rounds
- 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Optional Ingredients
- Fresh herbs such as parsley or thyme for garnish
- Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
- Rosemary or sage to toss with carrots for earthy flavor
- Toasted pecans or walnuts for topping
- Prepare the Carrots: Start by washing and peeling your carrots, then slice them into evenly sized sticks or rounds. Uniform pieces ensure even roasting and consistent texture.
- Make the Balsamic Glaze: In a mixing bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey (or maple syrup), minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined, creating a balanced glaze full of tangy, sweet, and savory notes.
- Toss Carrots in the Glaze: Place the prepared carrots into the bowl and toss until each piece is generously coated with the balsamic mixture. This step ensures every bite bursts with flavor.
- Roast Until Tender and Caramelized: Arrange the glazed carrots on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes. Flip halfway through to promote even caramelization and golden edges.
- Finish and Serve: Once tender and caramelized, remove from the oven and optionally sprinkle with fresh herbs for a pop of color and fragrance before serving warm.
Notes
- Choose fresh, firm, bright orange carrots for best natural sweetness and texture.
- Do not overcrowd the pan; leave space between carrots to allow proper roasting and crisp edges.
- Use good quality, preferably aged, balsamic vinegar for richer flavor and better caramelization.
- Adjust sweetness to taste by adding more honey or maple syrup if desired.
- Check roasting time at 20 minutes to avoid burning and ensure perfect tenderness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 recipe
- Calories: 110 kcal
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 5 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
Keywords: balsamic roasted carrots, easy carrot side dish, healthy roasted vegetables, balsamic glaze carrots, quick roasted carrots