Honey Roasted Carrots with Thyme

Honey Roasted Carrots with Thyme: A Sweet Symphony of Flavors!

Discover the irresistible charm of Honey Roasted Carrots with Thyme, a dish that transforms humble root vegetables into a culinary masterpiece. This simple yet elegant side dish combines the natural sweetness of carrots with the rich, floral notes of honey and the earthy aroma of fresh thyme. The result is a harmonious blend of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds and elevate any meal.

As these carrots roast in the oven, your kitchen will be filled with an intoxicating aroma that promises a delightful eating experience. The honey caramelizes, creating a glossy glaze that coats each carrot, while the thyme infuses the dish with its subtle, herbaceous essence. This recipe is perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions, adding a touch of sophistication to your table with minimal effort.

Carrots have been cultivated for thousands of years, and this recipe pays homage to their versatility and nutritional value. Packed with beta-carotene, fiber, and antioxidants, these honey-roasted carrots are not just a treat for your palate but also a boost for your health. Pair them with a succulent roast chicken or a hearty vegetarian main for a complete and satisfying meal that will impress family and friends alike.

Honey Roasted Carrots with Thyme Recipe

Ingredients:

2 pounds medium carrots peeled and halved lengthwise

3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

2 tablespoons honey

2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves plus extra for garnish

1 teaspoon kosher salt

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1 tablespoon unsalted butter melted (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, honey, thyme leaves, salt, and pepper.

3. Add the prepared carrots to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the honey-thyme mixture.

4. Arrange the carrots in a single layer on a large baking sheet, ensuring they are not overcrowded.

5. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, turning once halfway through, until the carrots are tender and caramelized around the edges.

6. If desired, drizzle the melted butter over the carrots during the last 5 minutes of roasting for extra richness.

7. Remove from the oven and transfer to a serving platter.

8. Garnish with additional fresh thyme leaves and serve hot.

Air Fryer Instructions:

1. Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C).

2. Follow steps 2 and 3 from the oven instructions.

3. Place the coated carrots in the air fryer basket in a single layer, working in batches if necessary.

4. Cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the carrots are tender and caramelized.

5. Repeat with any remaining carrots.

6. Garnish and serve as directed above.

Notes:

• For a spicy twist, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the honey-thyme mixture.
• You can also experiment with different herbs like rosemary or sage for variety.
• These carrots are best served immediately but can be reheated in the oven if needed.

Nutrition Information

Serving Size: 1/4 of the recipe

Calories: 220

Fat: 11g

Saturated Fat: 2g

Carbohydrates: 31g

Fiber: 6g

Sugars: 21g

Protein: 2g

Sodium: 440mg

Other Information

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 25-30 minutes (oven) or 12-15 minutes (air fryer)

Equipment: Baking sheet or air fryer, mixing bowl, peeler

Estimated cost per serving: $1.25

Total cost: $5.00

In Conclusion, Honey Roasted Carrots with Thyme

In conclusion, this Honey Roasted Carrots with Thyme recipe offers a delightful way to enjoy a nutritious vegetable with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Whether prepared in the oven or air fryer, these carrots are sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire, adding color, nutrition, and delicious taste to your meals.

Get more tips for flavorful veggies here.