Get ready to transform ordinary vegetables into an extraordinary culinary masterpiece that will have your taste buds dancing! These Hot Honey Roasted Rainbow Carrots are not just a side dish - they're a vibrant, flavor-packed experience that turns humble carrots into a gourmet sensation. Imagine tender, caramelized carrot sticks glazed with a perfect balance of sweet honey and fiery hot sauce, creating a mouthwatering dish that's as stunning to look at as it is delicious to devour.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb rainbow carrots, peeled and cut into sticks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
- Wash and peel the rainbow carrots, then cut them into uniform sticks approximately 3-4 inches long. Aim for similar thickness to ensure even roasting.
- In a small mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, honey, and hot sauce until thoroughly combined. The mixture should create a smooth, glossy glaze.
- Place carrot sticks on the prepared baking sheet, spreading them out in a single layer without overcrowding. This ensures each carrot roasts and caramelizes properly.
- Drizzle the honey-hot sauce mixture over the carrots, then use a pastry brush or spoon to coat each carrot evenly. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, turning the carrots halfway through cooking. Look for edges that are slightly charred and carrots that are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 2-3 minutes. Transfer to a serving platter and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
- Serve immediately while warm, allowing the sweet and spicy glaze to shine. These carrots make an excellent side dish for roasted meats or as a standalone vegetable course.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Carrots: Select firm, bright rainbow carrots for the most visually appealing and flavorful result.
- Uniform Cutting: Ensure all carrot sticks are cut to similar sizes to guarantee even roasting and consistent texture.
- Don't Overcrowd: Spread carrots in a single layer on the baking sheet to allow proper caramelization and prevent steaming.
- Glaze Application: Use a pastry brush for even coating of the honey-hot sauce mixture to maximize flavor distribution.
- Watch Carefully: Check carrots around the 25-minute mark to prevent burning, looking for slight char and fork-tender texture.
- Garnish Wisely: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and fresh herb flavor that complements the sweet and spicy glaze.Pro tip: For extra heat, choose a spicier hot sauce, or for milder flavor, reduce the hot sauce quantity to suit your taste preferences!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 170kcal
Carbohydrates: 28g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
