Description
Want a quick, colorful, and flavorful side dish that never fails? These Classic Honey Glazed Carrots are the perfect answer. Tender carrots are tossed in a buttery honey glaze that caramelizes just enough to highlight their natural sweetness. It’s the ultimate go-to for weeknight dinners, holiday meals, or when you just need a healthy snack idea that’s also kid-approved. This easy recipe delivers both visual appeal and flavor punch, making it a standout in your dinner ideas or vegetable side rotation. Whether you’re after quick dinner options, healthy sides, or reliable food ideas, this one hits the mark.
Ingredients
1 pound baby carrots
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons honey
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
1. Rinse the baby carrots under cold water. If using whole carrots, peel and cut into even pieces.
2. Add carrots to a saucepan and cover with water. Add a pinch of salt.
3. Bring to a boil and cook for 6–8 minutes until fork-tender. Drain and set aside.
4. In the same saucepan or a clean skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
5. Stir in the honey, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
6. Add the drained carrots back into the pan. Stir gently to coat them in the glaze.
7. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until carrots are glossy and fully glazed.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.
Notes
To avoid mushy carrots, don’t overboil — they should be just fork-tender.
Maple syrup can be used instead of honey for a vegan-friendly option.
Add orange zest or a splash of orange juice for a citrusy flavor boost.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 13g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: easy recipe, honey glazed carrots, holiday side, healthy snack, dinner ideas, vegetable side dish