Description
Brown Sugar Roasted Carrots are a simple and elegant side dish featuring tender carrots caramelized with brown sugar, olive oil, and a touch of seasoning. This recipe transforms carrots into a flavorful, sweet-savory delight that pairs wonderfully with a variety of main courses, offering a healthy, family-friendly option with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh carrots, washed, peeled, and sliced into sticks or rounds
- 2 tbsp brown sugar (light brown sugar preferred)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
Optional Ingredients
- 1 tsp fresh thyme or rosemary, finely chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Carrots: Wash and peel fresh carrots, then slice them into uniform sticks or rounds to ensure even roasting and consistent tenderness.
- Toss with Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the sliced carrots with olive oil, brown sugar, salt, and black pepper. Toss thoroughly to coat each piece evenly in the sugary glaze.
- Arrange on a Baking Sheet: Spread the coated carrots in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking and promote even caramelization.
- Roast Until Tender: Place the baking sheet in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) and roast for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through, until the carrots are tender and caramelized at the edges.
- Add Fresh Herbs and Serve: Once roasted, sprinkle fresh thyme or rosemary over the carrots, toss gently, and serve warm for optimal flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Cut carrots into similar sizes for even roasting and to prevent some pieces from overcooking.
- Do not overcrowd the baking sheet to allow the carrots to caramelize instead of steaming.
- Use light brown sugar for milder sweetness and better caramelization.
- Rotate the carrots halfway through roasting to ensure an even golden finish and prevent burning.
- For a more pronounced flavor contrast, add a pinch of finishing salt just before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 recipe
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 5 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
Keywords: brown sugar roasted carrots, caramelized carrots, roasted vegetable side dish, easy carrot recipe, healthy side dish, vegan side dish, gluten free side
