Get ready to transform the humble carrot into a culinary masterpiece that will have your dinner guests begging for seconds! This Honey Roasted Carrots with Goat Cheese and Pepitas recipe is not just a side dish - it's a flavor explosion that turns ordinary vegetables into an extraordinary experience. Imagine sweet, caramelized carrots with a golden-brown exterior, topped with creamy goat cheese and crunchy pepitas that create a symphony of textures and tastes in every single bite.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound carrots, peeled and cut
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup goat cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup pepitas
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Wash and peel the carrots thoroughly. Cut them into uniform diagonal pieces, approximately 2-3 inches long, to ensure even roasting. Try to maintain similar thickness for consistent cooking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, honey, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until they form a smooth, well-integrated glaze.
- Add the prepared carrots to the bowl and toss gently, ensuring each carrot piece is evenly coated with the honey-olive oil mixture.
- Spread the glazed carrots in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are not overcrowded. This allows them to roast and caramelize instead of steaming.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 20-25 minutes, turning the carrots halfway through cooking to ensure even browning and caramelization.
- While carrots are roasting, lightly toast the pepitas in a dry skillet over medium heat until they become fragrant and slightly golden, about 3-4 minutes. Set aside.
- Remove carrots from the oven when they are tender and have golden-brown edges. The honey will have created a beautiful caramelized exterior.
- Transfer the roasted carrots to a serving platter. Immediately sprinkle with crumbled goat cheese and toasted pepitas.
- Serve immediately while warm, allowing the residual heat to slightly melt the goat cheese and enhance the flavors of the dish.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Carrots: Select firm, vibrant carrots with smooth skin for the best roasting results.
- Uniform Cutting: Cut carrots into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking and consistent caramelization.
- Don't Overcrowd: Spread carrots in a single layer on the baking sheet to allow proper roasting and prevent steaming.
- Watch the Honey: The natural sugars can burn quickly, so keep an eye on your carrots during the last 5-10 minutes of roasting.
- Toast Pepitas Separately: Lightly toasting pepitas in a dry skillet enhances their nutty flavor and adds a delightful crunch.
- Serve Immediately: The dish is best enjoyed warm, when the goat cheese is slightly melted and the carrots are at their most flavorful.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 15mg
