roasted carrots with honey mustard glaze

These roasted carrots with honey mustard glaze are one of the most versatile and dependable side dishes you can add to your holiday or weeknight table. The combination of naturally sweet carrots, rich olive oil, warm caramelization, and a tangy honey mustard glaze creates a balanced flavor profile that appeals to every age group. The simple preparation method and short ingredient list make this dish practical for busy cooks, yet the final presentation is elegant enough for Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter, or any celebratory meal.

This recipe has been enjoyed for years because it provides a reliable way to transform simple carrots into something flavorful, tender, slightly crisp at the edges, and visually appealing. Roasting brings out the natural sugars in the carrots while the honey and Dijon mixture adds depth and brightness. The fresh garlic and rosemary round out the flavors, creating a savory herb aroma that fills the kitchen. This is an excellent example of how a few key ingredients can completely elevate a vegetable.

The combination of carrots, garlic, rosemary, honey, and mustard may appear simple, but the final result is exceptionally balanced. Carrots become sweeter during roasting, which pairs naturally with honey. The mustard adds acidity and complexity that prevents the dish from becoming too sweet. Together, these flavors create a glaze that complements poultry, beef, pork, vegetarian meals, and even plant-based holiday spreads.

Prep Time

10 minutes

Cook Time

25 minutes

Total Time

35 minutes

Ingredients

• 12 to 15 medium carrots, rainbow or orange
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon sea salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Step by Step Instructions

Step 1. Mix the glaze

In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, rosemary, garlic, salt, and pepper until the mixture becomes smooth and fully blended.

Step 2. Prepare the carrots

Scrub the carrots thoroughly and peel only if the skins appear tough. Slice the larger carrots lengthwise to create uniform sizes so that everything roasts evenly.

Step 3. Coat the carrots

Place the carrots into a large bowl and pour the glaze over them. Toss until every carrot is completely coated.

Step 4. Arrange on baking sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the carrots out in a single layer, leaving space between them.

Step 5. Roast

Bake at 425 F for 20 to 25 minutes, turning occasionally, until the carrots are tender with light caramelization around the edges.

Step 6. Finish and garnish

Drizzle the remaining glaze over the warm carrots. Add parsley, salt, and pepper to taste.

Pro Tips

1. Choose carrots that are similar in thickness to prevent uneven cooking.
2. Use parchment paper to avoid sticking and encourage caramelization.
3. If you prefer extra browning, roast for the final 5 minutes without parchment.
4. Baby carrots can be swapped in without altering the glaze amounts.
5. For deeper flavor, add a touch of apple cider vinegar to the glaze.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

These roasted carrots with honey mustard glaze pair well with:

• Herb roasted chicken
• Turkey breast
• Glazed ham
• Baked lemon chicken
• Pork tenderloin
• Lentil loaf or vegetarian holiday mains
• Wild rice pilaf
• Mashed potatoes
• Roasted Brussels sprouts

Nutrition Information

Serving Size	Calories	Protein	Carbs	Fat	Fiber	Sugar
1 plate	116	1g	18g	5g	3g	11g

Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimates. Consult a nutrition professional for detailed guidance.

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