Get ready to transform ordinary carrots into a culinary masterpiece that will have your dinner guests begging for seconds! These Balsamic Honey Glazed Rainbow Carrots are not just a side dish – they're a vibrant, flavor-packed experience that elevates simple vegetables into a gourmet sensation. With a perfect balance of sweet honey, tangy balsamic, and beautifully caramelized edges, this recipe turns humble carrots into a show-stopping dish that's as stunning to look at as it is delicious to eat.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb rainbow carrots, peeled and cut
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C), ensuring the rack is positioned in the middle of the oven for even roasting.
- Thoroughly wash the rainbow carrots and pat them dry with paper towels. Peel the carrots if desired, leaving a small portion of the green tops for visual appeal.
- Cut the carrots diagonally into approximately 2-inch pieces, ensuring they are roughly the same size to promote even cooking.
- In a small mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and honey until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Place the prepared carrots on a large rimmed baking sheet, spreading them in a single layer to ensure they roast rather than steam.
- Drizzle the balsamic-honey mixture over the carrots, using a pastry brush or spoon to coat them evenly.
- Season the carrots generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper, tossing to ensure complete coverage.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, turning the carrots once halfway through cooking to promote even caramelization.
- The carrots are done when they are tender when pierced with a fork and have developed golden-brown edges with a beautiful glaze.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the glaze to set slightly.
- Transfer to a serving platter and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for added color and fresh flavor.
- Serve immediately while warm, allowing the vibrant colors and glossy glaze to showcase the dish's appetizing appearance.
Tips
- Choose the freshest rainbow carrots possible for maximum color and flavor. Look for carrots that are firm and vibrant.
- For even roasting, make sure to cut carrots into uniform sizes and spread them in a single layer on the baking sheet.
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet – this prevents steaming and ensures beautiful caramelization.
- Use a pastry brush for more precise and even glaze distribution.
- Watch the carrots closely in the last 5 minutes of roasting to prevent burning while achieving that perfect caramelized finish.
- For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a pinch of dried thyme or rosemary to the glaze.
- If you prefer a more intense glaze, reduce the balsamic-honey mixture in a small saucepan before drizzling over carrots.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and most vibrant presentation.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
