Description

Simple, sweet, and savory—these Honey Roasted Carrots with Thyme are a beautiful side dish that brings out the natural sweetness of carrots with a glossy honey glaze and the earthy aroma of fresh thyme. Roasting gives the carrots tender centers with slightly caramelized edges, making them a perfect addition to any dinner table, from holiday feasts to weeknight meals.

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Ingredients

Scale

For the Roasted Carrots:

2 lbs carrots (peeled and cut into sticks or left whole if thin)
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp honey
1½ tsp fresh thyme leaves (or ½ tsp dried thyme)
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper

Optional Finishing Touches:

1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Zest of ½ lemon or a small squeeze of lemon juice (for brightness)
Extra drizzle of honey (for more gloss and sweetness)

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Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Prep the Carrots

Peel the carrots and cut them into uniform sticks (about 3 inches long and ½ inch thick).
If your carrots are thin and tender, you can leave them whole for a rustic look.
Place the carrots in a large mixing bowl.

Step 3: Season & Toss

Drizzle olive oil and honey over the carrots.
Sprinkle with thyme, salt, and black pepper.
Toss until the carrots are evenly coated.

Step 4: Roast the Carrots

Spread the carrots in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
Roast in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, turning once halfway through, until the carrots are fork-tender and caramelized on the edges.
For deeper caramelization, roast for an extra 5 minutes.

Step 5: Garnish & Serve

Remove the carrots from the oven and transfer them to a serving platter.
Sprinkle with fresh parsley, lemon zest, or a touch more honey if desired.
Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

Use Uniform Carrots – Cut evenly so they cook at the same rate.
Don’t Overcrowd – Spread the carrots out on the baking sheet to allow browning.
Fresh Thyme = Best Flavor – Dried works too, but fresh gives a brighter, herbaceous note.
Add Lemon – A squeeze of lemon juice adds balance to the sweet honey glaze.
Make It Spicy – Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Cuisine: American