Honey Glazed Carrots with Thyme

These Honey Glazed Carrots with Thyme are a sweet and savory side dish that’s easy to make yet full of flavor. The natural sweetness of the carrots is enhanced by the honey glaze, while the thyme adds a fragrant, herbal touch. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a complement to your holiday meal.

Ingredients

• 4 cups baby carrots (or regular carrots, peeled and sliced)

• 2 tbsp honey

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp butter

• 1/2 tsp dried thyme (or fresh thyme if available)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh thyme for garnish (optional)

Preparation Steps

1. Prepare the Carrots

If using regular carrots, peel and slice them into evenly sized pieces, about 1/4 inch thick. If using baby carrots, you can keep them whole or cut them in half, depending on size.

2. Cook the Carrots

In a medium-sized skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the carrots to the skillet and sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the carrots start to soften and become slightly golden.

3. Glaze the Carrots

Once the carrots are tender, drizzle the honey over them and sprinkle with thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat the carrots evenly in the honey and seasonings. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the honey to bubble and form a glaze over the carrots.

4. Finish and Serve

Remove the carrots from the heat once they’re nicely glazed and tender. Garnish with fresh thyme for a burst of color and extra flavor. Serve immediately as a side dish.

Expert Tips

• Add a Touch of Sweetness: For a sweeter variation, add a splash of orange juice or zest to the glaze.

• Vegan Version: Replace the butter with additional olive oil to make the dish vegan.

• Add Nuts: For extra texture, sprinkle some toasted walnuts or pecans on top before serving.

Why This Dish Works

Honey Glazed Carrots with Thyme offer the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. The honey provides a natural sweetness that complements the earthy taste of the carrots, while the thyme adds a fresh, herby note. This simple side dish pairs well with a variety of main courses and is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Conclusion

Honey Glazed Carrots with Thyme are a quick, flavorful, and nutritious side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With their sweet glaze and fragrant thyme, they add both flavor and color to any meal.