Honey-Balsamic Roasted Carrots with Fresh Parsley
Sweet and savory roasted carrots glazed with honey and balsamic vinegar create a perfect side dish for any meal. The natural sweetness of the carrots caramelizes beautifully in the oven while the tangy balsamic adds depth of flavor. Finished with fresh Italian parsley for a bright herbal note, these tender, golden carrots pair wonderfully with roasted meats, holiday dinners, or weeknight meals. The simple preparation transforms humble carrots into an elegant side dish that's both comforting and sophisticated.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 bag (2 lb) fresh carrots, peeled and quartered lengthwise
- 2 tablespoons fresh Italian (flat-leaf) parsley, chopped
Instructions
- 1
Heat oven and spray rimmed pan with cooking spray
- 2
Mix melted butter, honey, vinegar, salt and pepper in small bowl until blended
- 3
Add carrots to pan and top with butter mixture, tossing to coat
- 4
Roast uncovered, then stir
- 5
Continue roasting until carrots are tender and browned
- 6
Drizzle with remaining vinegar and stir carrots in pan
- 7
Remove carrots from pan immediately and top with parsley
Tips
Cut carrots into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking and browning throughout
Don't overcrowd the pan - use a large rimmed baking sheet for best caramelization
Good to Know
Refrigerate leftovers up to 4 days in covered container
Can prep carrots and make glaze up to 1 day ahead, store separately
Serve immediately while hot for best texture and flavor
Common Mistakes
Don't skip stirring halfway through to avoid uneven browning
Remove from pan immediately after final stir to prevent overcooking
Substitutions
Dairy-Free Swaps
Vegan Options
FAQ
Can I use baby carrots instead?
Yes, but halve lengthwise and reduce cooking time by 5-8 minutes since they're smaller and more tender.
What if I don't have balsamic vinegar?
Red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar work as substitutes, though the flavor will be less sweet and complex.
How long will these keep in the refrigerator?
Store covered for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.