Name: Roasted Carrots with Hot Honey
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Modern American
Ingredients: For the Roasted Carrots: 1 lb (450g) baby carrots or heirloom carrots; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp maple syrup; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 cup (225g) ricotta cheese; 2 tbsp heavy cream; 1 tsp lemon zest; Salt, to taste; 1/4 cup (60ml) honey; 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes; 1 tsp apple cider vinegar; 2 tbsp chopped pistachios; 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves; Fresh parsley (optional)

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Have you ever met a vegetable dish so good it could steal the spotlight from the main course? Well, let me introduce you to roasted carrots with hot honey—a dish that’s equal parts sweet, spicy, and utterly irresistible. These carrots are caramelized to perfection, with crispy edges and tender centers, all drizzled with a spicy-sweet honey glaze that makes every bite a flavor explosion. Trust me, you’ll want to make extra because these beauties vanish in no time. Perfect for weeknight dinners, holiday spreads, or whenever you’re craving a little zing on your plate!

Why You’ll Love Roasted Carrots with Hot Honey

Versatile: These carrots are just as comfortable alongside a Thanksgiving turkey as they are paired with a simple weeknight roast chicken.
Easy to Make: Minimal prep, straightforward steps, and a foolproof method make this recipe beginner-friendly.
Bold Flavors: Sweet honey meets a fiery kick, creating a balance of flavors that’s exciting but not overwhelming.
Healthy and Delicious: Packed with vitamins and nutrients, these carrots prove that healthy eating doesn’t have to be boring.
Customizable: Want it spicier? Add more chili. Prefer a milder taste? Tone it down with a little extra honey.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this irresistible side dish:

Carrots

The humble star of the dish! Opt for vibrant, fresh carrots for the best flavor. Baby carrots or heirloom varieties work beautifully too.

Olive Oil

Helps the carrots roast to golden perfection, adding a subtle richness.

Salt and Pepper

Seasoning staples that bring out the natural sweetness of the carrots.

Honey

Adds a luscious sweetness that caramelizes in the oven.

Chili Flakes

The spicy partner to the honey, delivering that perfect touch of heat.

Fresh Parsley

A pop of green for garnish and a hint of freshness to balance the bold flavors.

Instructions

Let’s dive into the simple steps to create this vibrant dish:

Preheat Your Oven

Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). A hot oven is key to achieving those crispy edges and tender centers.

Prep the Carrots

Wash and peel the carrots. Trim the ends, leaving a bit of the green tops if you’re feeling fancy.

Season and Roast

Place the carrots on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, and season generously with salt and pepper. Toss to coat, then spread them out in a single layer. Roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until caramelized and tender.

Make the Hot Honey Glaze

While the carrots roast, combine honey and chili flakes in a small saucepan over low heat. Warm just until the honey is infused with the chili’s heat, about 2-3 minutes.

Glaze the Carrots

Once the carrots are roasted, drizzle the hot honey over them while they’re still warm. Toss gently to coat.

Garnish and Serve

Transfer to a serving platter, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve immediately. Enjoy the sweet, spicy, and savory magic!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: Approx. 120

How to Serve Roasted Carrots with Hot Honey

As a Side Dish: Pair with roasted chicken, grilled salmon, or your favorite holiday main course.
On a Grain Bowl: Serve atop quinoa or farro for a hearty, healthy meal.
With a Yogurt Dip: Add a dollop of tangy Greek yogurt for a cooling contrast to the spicy glaze.
As an Appetizer: Serve on a platter with toothpicks for an elegant finger food option.

Additional Tips

Choose the Right Carrots: Uniformly sized carrots roast more evenly, so try to select ones of similar size.
Make Ahead: Roast the carrots in advance and reheat gently before drizzling with the hot honey.
Adjust Spice Levels: For a milder glaze, reduce the chili flakes or replace them with smoked paprika for a smoky kick.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to restore their caramelized texture.

FAQ

Q1: Can I use baby carrots?
A1: Yes, but reduce the roasting time slightly as they cook faster.

Q2: Can I make this dish vegan?
A2: Substitute honey with maple syrup for a vegan-friendly version.

Q3: What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
A3: Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes to retain their texture and flavor.

Q4: Can I add other vegetables?
A4: Absolutely! Parsnips, sweet potatoes, or even Brussels sprouts pair well with the hot honey glaze.

Q5: How spicy is the glaze?
A5: The spice level is mild to moderate, but you can adjust the chili flakes to suit your heat preference.

Q6: Can I make the hot honey in advance?
A6: Yes, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Warm it slightly before using.

Q7: Are there alternative garnishes?
A7: Try chopped cilantro, toasted sesame seeds, or a squeeze of fresh lemon for different flavor profiles.

Q8: Can I use store-bought hot honey?
A8: Yes, it’s a convenient option if you’re short on time.

Q9: What type of honey works best?
A9: A light, mild honey like clover or wildflower is ideal for letting the chili flavor shine.

Q10: Can I double the recipe?
A10: Absolutely! Just make sure to use two baking sheets to avoid overcrowding, which can prevent proper caramelization.