These honey glazed carrots are a sweet and colorful side dish that everyone will love. With a simple mix of honey, butter, and a dash of salt, they turn out perfectly tender!
Honestly, these glazed carrots are like candy for dinner—who knew veggies could be this tasty? I always add a few extra carrots to “test” them out. 😉
I love how quick they are to make! Just boil, glaze, and serve. They make any meal feel special, and they disappear fast around my family table.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Carrots: Baby carrots are super easy to prep and look cute on the plate! If you can’t find them, regular carrots work too—just peel and cut them into sticks. I typically chop them thicker for a more satisfying bite.
Butter: Unsalted butter is my go-to for controlling the salt level. If you’re dairy-free, feel free to swap it with a plant-based butter or olive oil for a different twist that still tastes great!
Honey: Honey adds sweetness and a lovely glaze. If you’re avoiding honey, maple syrup is a nice alternative. Just use the same amount, and you’ll still get that sweet flavor!
Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness. You can also use thyme or even chives for a change in flavor. I love how herbs can elevate the dish!
How Do I Ensure My Carrots Are Perfectly Glazed?
To achieve that beautiful glaze, the technique is key! Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start by softening the carrots in boiling water. Don’t overcook them—just until they’re tender.
- Once they’re drained, the magic happens in the skillet. Melt the butter and honey together and let it bubble for a moment.
- Add the carrots and toss them gently in the glaze, cooking just enough for them to soak up that sweet buttery goodness.
- Be careful not to let them burn; stir occasionally for even coating.
With these easy steps, you’ll have beautifully glazed carrots that everyone will rave about!
How to Make Honey Glazed Carrots
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Carrots:
- 1 lb baby carrots (or regular carrots peeled and cut into sticks)
For The Glaze:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For Garnish:
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare! You’ll spend about 5-7 minutes boiling the carrots, then another 5-6 minutes making the glaze and cooking everything together. Perfect for a quick and tasty side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Boiling the Carrots:
Start by bringing a pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s boiling, add the baby carrots (or your prepared regular carrots). Cook them until they are just tender, which will take about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to drain them well and set them aside.
2. Making the Honey Glaze:
While your carrots are cooking, grab a large skillet and melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add the honey and stir everything together until combined. It should look smooth and bubbly—yum!
3. Glazing the Carrots:
Now it’s time to add the cooked carrots into the skillet. Gently toss them in the honey butter glaze, ensuring they are all coated well. Let them cook in the glaze for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want them to become nice and glazed, and a little caramelized on the edges.
4. Season to Perfection:
Once the carrots are beautifully glazed, season them with salt and black pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference. A little pinch goes a long way!
5. Serve with Love:
Transfer your glazed carrots to a serving dish. For that final touch, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. Now it’s ready to be enjoyed as a delightful side at your meal!
Can I Use Frozen Carrots in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen carrots! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. You can do this overnight in the fridge or by microwaving them for a few minutes. They may need a bit more cooking time to get tender and glaze well.
What if I Don’t Have Honey?
No problem! If you don’t have honey, you can substitute it with maple syrup or agave nectar, using the same amount. Both will give you a sweet and delicious glaze.
Can I Make These Carrots in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the glazed carrots ahead of time and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat them gently in a skillet until warmed through.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover honey glazed carrots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating.
