Honey Balsamic Roasted Carrots side-dish

Ingredients

• 1 lb fresh carrots (Washed and peeled; choose carrots of similar size)
• 1 tbsp avocado oil (Or olive oil)
• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 2 tbsp honey
• 2 garlic (Cloves, minced)
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 0.25 tsp salt (Add an additional sprinkle at the end if needed)
• black pepper (Cracked, to taste; add more at the end if needed)
• 0.25 cup goat cheese (Crumbled; optional for serving)

Steps

1. 1

   Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. 2

   Slice both ends off the carrots. Cut them diagonally on the bias into thirds, roughly 1½-inch pieces. If any pieces are too large, cut them in half lengthwise; aim for pieces of similar size and thickness. Place the carrots in a large bowl.

3. 3

   Whisk the oil with 1 tablespoon of the balsamic vinegar and 1 tablespoon of the honey. Pour this mixture over the carrots.

4. 4

   Add the minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, and cracked black pepper to taste. Toss until the carrots are evenly coated.

5. 5

   Using a slotted spoon, transfer the carrots to the prepared baking sheet, spreading them out in an even layer. Leave the liquid in the bowl to brush onto the carrots later.

6. 6

   Roast for 20–25 minutes, or until tender. During the final 5–10 minutes of roasting, brush the reserved liquid over the carrots.

7. 7

   When the carrots are done, stir together the remaining 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar and 1 tablespoon of honey. Drizzle the sauce over the carrots.

8. 8

   Taste and add a sprinkle of salt and pepper if needed. Toss the carrots, then serve immediately with crumbled goat cheese on top if desired.

Notes

The author notes that cooking time can vary by oven and carrot size; check around 15 minutes. Larger carrots may need 25–30 minutes. Draining off the excess liquid before roasting helps the carrots crisp and prevents the glaze from burning. Fresh thyme is suggested as an optional garnish in the body text.

Nutrition per serving

• side dish
• vegetarian
• gluten-free
• roasted
• oven-baked
• holiday