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Honey Glazed Carrots Recipe Easy Homemade with Fresh Thyme for Perfect Side Dish

honey glazed carrots recipe - featured image

Sweet honey caramelizes tender carrots with fresh thyme for a quick, flavorful side dish perfect for any meal or occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450 g) medium carrots, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch thick slices
  • 3 tablespoons (60 ml) honey, preferably mild floral variety
  • 2 tablespoons (28 g) unsalted butter, melted (can substitute with olive oil for dairy-free)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (about 34 sprigs)
  • 1/2 teaspoon (3 g) salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon (1 g) freshly ground black pepper (optional)
  • Optional: 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • Optional: 1 clove garlic, minced and sautéed with butter
  • Optional: chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Peel and slice 1 pound (450 g) of carrots into 1/2-inch thick rounds. Rinse and drain well.
  2. Place 2 tablespoons (28 g) unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once melted, add 3 tablespoons (60 ml) honey. Stir gently and cook for 1-2 minutes until mixture bubbles and thickens slightly, being careful not to burn.
  3. Toss the sliced carrots into the honey-butter glaze and stir well to coat every piece.
  4. Sprinkle 1/2 teaspoon (3 g) salt, 1/4 teaspoon (1 g) freshly ground black pepper, and 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves over the carrots. Stir to combine.
  5. Lower heat to medium-low, cover skillet with lid, and cook carrots for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender but still slightly firm.
  6. Remove lid, increase heat to medium, and cook uncovered for another 2-3 minutes to thicken glaze and get a shiny finish. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  7. Serve warm, optionally garnished with chopped parsley or a wedge of lemon.

Notes

If carrots start to dry while cooking, add a splash of water or extra butter to keep glaze silky. Avoid high heat to prevent honey from burning. Uniform carrot slices ensure even cooking. Fresh thyme is preferred for best flavor; dried thyme can be used in smaller amounts. Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and taste better after resting overnight.

Nutrition

Keywords: honey glazed carrots, side dish, fresh thyme, easy recipe, quick vegetables, healthy side, holiday side dish