Golden honey-glazed carrots

Featured in: Veggie & Grain Bowls

This dish features tender carrot slices cooked to just the right softness, then tossed in a glossy blend of honey and butter. Finished with a touch of sea salt, pepper, and fresh parsley, it offers a vibrant balance of natural sweetness and savory depth. Optional lemon juice adds brightness, while suggestions like cinnamon or chili flakes provide ways to customize the flavor. Perfectly suited as a colorful, easy-to-prepare side that complements a variety of main courses.

Updated on Sun, 14 Dec 2025 18:14:34 GMT
Golden honey-glazed carrots, glistening and tender, ready to be enjoyed with their vibrant glaze. Save
Golden honey-glazed carrots, glistening and tender, ready to be enjoyed with their vibrant glaze. | shiftoven.com

Golden Honey-Glazed Carrots are a delightful side dish that brings a touch of sweetness and elegance to your table. Tender carrot slices are gently cooked until just tender, then enveloped in a shimmering honey-butter glaze that enhances their natural flavor. Finished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs and a hint of brightness from lemon juice, this vibrant dish is perfect for complementing a wide variety of meals—from weekday dinners to festive gatherings.

Golden honey-glazed carrots, glistening and tender, ready to be enjoyed with their vibrant glaze. Save
Golden honey-glazed carrots, glistening and tender, ready to be enjoyed with their vibrant glaze. | shiftoven.com

The honey glaze not only adds a glossy finish but also locks in the natural sweetness of the carrots. Optional touches like fresh parsley and lemon juice add freshness and balance to the dish, making every bite a perfect harmony of flavors.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb (450 g) carrots, peeled and cut into ¼-inch slices
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • ½ tsp fine sea salt
  • ¼ tsp ground black pepper
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional)
  • 1 tsp lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
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Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add the carrot slices and cook for 6–8 minutes, until just tender but not mushy. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.
Stir in the honey, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the drained carrots and toss to coat in the honey-butter mixture.
Cook, stirring occasionally, for 4–5 minutes until carrots are glossy and well glazed.
4. Remove from heat.
Stir in lemon juice (if using) and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Serve warm.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For perfectly tender carrots, be careful not to overcook them in the boiling water—they should be just tender enough to pierce with a fork yet still hold their shape. Stir gently when glazing to maintain the glossy finish without mashing the carrots.

Varianten und Anpassungen

Enhance the flavor by adding a pinch of ground cinnamon or a dash of chili flakes for a subtle spicy warmth. For a different sweet note, substitute maple syrup for honey. To make it dairy-free, swap out the butter for a plant-based alternative while maintaining the luscious glaze.

Serviervorschläge

This golden honey-glazed carrot side pairs beautifully with roasted chicken, turkey, or pork, adding a colorful and flavorful complement. It also works well as part of a vegetarian meal alongside grains or salads.

Vibrant plate of golden honey-glazed carrots, showcasing the glossy glaze and fresh parsley garnish. Save
Vibrant plate of golden honey-glazed carrots, showcasing the glossy glaze and fresh parsley garnish. | shiftoven.com

Whether you're preparing a simple weeknight dinner or a festive holiday spread, these honey-glazed carrots bring warmth, color, and an irresistible flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds.

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Recipe Q&A

How do I ensure carrots stay tender but not mushy?

Boil carrot slices for 6–8 minutes until just tender. Drain immediately to prevent overcooking and preserve texture.

Can I substitute maple syrup for honey?

Yes, maple syrup can be used as a natural alternative to honey for a different flavor twist in the glaze.

What herbs enhance the honey glaze best?

Fresh parsley is recommended for brightness and color, and lemon juice can add a subtle tang to balance sweetness.

Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?

Replace unsalted butter with plant-based alternatives to keep the glaze creamy without dairy.

What dishes pair well with honey-glazed carrots?

These carrots complement roasted chicken, turkey, pork, or any savory main course needing a touch of sweetness.

Golden honey-glazed carrots

Tender carrots glazed with honey and butter, enhanced with fresh herbs for a flavorful side.

Time to Prep
10 min
Time to Cook
20 min
Overall Time
30 min
Recipe by Samuel Hill


Skill Level Easy

Cuisine American

Makes 4 Portions

Diet Preferences Meat-free, No Gluten

What You Need

Vegetables

01 1 lb carrots, peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch rounds

Sauce & Seasonings

01 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
02 2 tablespoons honey
03 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
04 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
05 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional)
06 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional)

Directions

Step 01

Parboil Carrots: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add sliced carrots and cook for 6 to 8 minutes until tender but firm. Drain and set aside.

Step 02

Prepare Honey-Butter Glaze: Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Stir in honey, salt, and black pepper until combined.

Step 03

Glaze Carrots: Add drained carrots to the skillet and toss to coat them evenly with the honey-butter mixture. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes until carrots are glossy.

Step 04

Finish and Serve: Remove skillet from heat. Stir in lemon juice if using and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Serve warm.

Tools Needed

  • Vegetable peeler
  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Large skillet
  • Wooden spoon

Allergy Details

Review each item to spot allergens, and consult a health expert if unsure.
  • Contains dairy (butter); substitute with plant-based butter for dairy-free.

Nutrition (per serving)

For guidance only. Always check with a medical provider for advice.
  • Energy: 110
  • Fats: 4 g
  • Carbohydrates: 19 g
  • Proteins: 1 g