Balsamic Glazed Roasted Carrots Recipe

Imagine taking a bite of perfectly tender, caramelized roasted carrots with a tangy and slightly sweet balsamic glaze. This Balsamic Glazed Roasted Carrots recipe is the ultimate side dish that will elevate any meal with its delicious combination of flavors. With just a handful of ingredients and a simple roasting method, you can easily whip up this crowd-pleasing dish in no time. Whether you’re looking for a vibrant and healthy addition to your dinner table or a flavorful snack, these balsamic glazed carrots are sure to impress both your taste buds and your guests. Get ready to experience a burst of flavor in every mouthful!

Table of Contents

Balsamic Glazed Roasted Carrots Recipe

Carrots are a versatile and nutritious vegetable that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. One delicious way to prepare carrots is by roasting them and drizzling them with a balsamic glaze. This simple yet flavorful recipe is a fantastic side dish for any meal. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting a dinner party, these balsamic glazed roasted carrots are sure to impress. Let’s dive in and explore the steps to make this tasty dish.

Ingredients

To make balsamic glazed roasted carrots, you will need the following ingredients:

Carrots: Choose fresh, vibrant carrots for the best flavor and texture.
Balsamic glaze: This sweet and tangy glaze adds a delicious depth of flavor to the dish.
Olive oil: Use a high-quality olive oil to coat the carrots and help them roast to perfection.
Salt: Enhance the natural flavors of the carrots with a sprinkle of salt.
Black pepper: Add a pinch of black pepper for a subtle kick of spice.
Fresh parsley: Use fresh parsley to garnish the finished dish and add a pop of color.

Instructions

Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that the carrots roast evenly and develop a lovely caramelized exterior.
Prepare the carrots: Wash the carrots thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Trim off the tops and bottoms of the carrots, and peel off the outer layer if desired.
Coat the carrots: In a large bowl, toss the carrots with olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Make sure each carrot is evenly coated with the oil and seasonings.
Roast the carrots: Arrange the coated carrots in a single layer on a baking sheet. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for about 25-30 minutes, or until the carrots are tender and beginning to caramelize. Be sure to flip the carrots halfway through the cooking time to ensure even roasting.
Glaze the carrots: Remove the carrots from the oven and drizzle them with balsamic glaze. Use a brush or spoon to evenly coat each carrot with the glaze. Return the carrots to the oven for an additional 5 minutes to allow the glaze to caramelize slightly.
Serve the dish: Once the carrots are glazed and tender, remove them from the oven and transfer them to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh parsley for an extra burst of flavor and visual appeal. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your balsamic glazed roasted carrots turn out perfectly:

Choose the right carrots: Look for carrots that are firm, smooth, and brightly colored. Avoid carrots that are soft, wilted, or have visible blemishes.
Cut the carrots evenly: To ensure even cooking, try to cut the carrots into similar-sized pieces. This will help them cook at the same rate and avoid any overly crunchy or mushy carrots.
Adjust the roasting time: The cooking time may vary depending on the size and thickness of your carrots. Keep an eye on them as they roast and adjust the cooking time accordingly. You want the carrots to be tender but still have a slight bite.
Do not overcook the carrots: Overcooking can lead to mushy carrots, so be sure to check their doneness with a fork during the roasting process. Once the carrots are fork-tender, they are ready to be glazed and served.
Use fresh parsley for garnish: Fresh parsley adds a fresh and vibrant touch to the finished dish. Chop it finely and sprinkle it over the glazed carrots just before serving for a burst of color and flavor.

Variations

If you’re looking to switch things up, here are a few delicious variations of balsamic glazed roasted carrots:

Honey balsamic glaze: For a sweeter twist, replace the regular balsamic glaze with a honey balsamic glaze. The combination of honey and balsamic vinegar creates a sweet and tangy glaze that pairs perfectly with the roasted carrots.
Maple glazed carrots: To add a touch of natural sweetness, substitute the balsamic glaze with a maple glaze. Drizzle pure maple syrup over the roasted carrots and return them to the oven for a few minutes to let the syrup caramelize.
Garlic and herb roasted carrots: If you’re a fan of savory flavors, try seasoning the carrots with minced garlic and dried herbs before roasting. The garlic adds a subtle tang, while the herbs infuse the carrots with earthy and aromatic flavors.

Nutritional Information

Here is the approximate nutritional information for a serving of balsamic glazed roasted carrots (based on a standard serving size):

Calories: 100-150 calories
Total Fat: 5-8 grams
Saturated Fat: 1-2 grams
Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
Sodium: 150-250 milligrams
Total Carbohydrate: 15-20 grams
Dietary Fiber: 3-5 grams
Sugar: 7-10 grams
Protein: 1-2 grams

Please note that nutritional values may vary depending on the specific ingredients and quantities used in the recipe.

FAQs

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about balsamic glazed roasted carrots:

Can I use baby carrots for this recipe? Yes, you can use baby carrots instead of regular-sized carrots. However, keep in mind that baby carrots will cook faster, so you may need to adjust the roasting time accordingly.
Can I make the glaze ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the balsamic glaze ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Simply warm it up before using to glaze the roasted carrots.
How long can I store leftovers? Leftover balsamic glazed roasted carrots can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before enjoying.
Can I use other vegetables instead of carrots? While this recipe specifically focuses on carrots, you can certainly use the same roasting technique with other vegetables. Try roasting vegetables like parsnips, turnips, or sweet potatoes for a flavorful variation.
Can I use dried parsley instead of fresh? Fresh parsley adds a brighter and more vibrant flavor to the dish, but dried parsley can be used as a substitute. Just keep in mind that the dried parsley may not have the same visual appeal as fresh parsley.

Conclusion

Balsamic glazed roasted carrots are a simple and flavorful dish that can elevate any meal. Whether you’re enjoying them as a side dish or incorporating them into a main course, these carrots are sure to please. The combination of tender roasted carrots, tangy balsamic glaze, and fresh parsley creates a harmonious balance of flavors. So don’t be afraid to get creative with your glazes or experiment with different herbs and spices. With this recipe, you have the foundation for a delicious and nutritious vegetable dish that will impress your friends and family. Enjoy!