Roasted Carrots and Parsnips with Honey

A harmonious blend of sweetness and earthiness, this roasted carrots and parsnips with honey recipe brings out the natural caramelized flavors of root vegetables. Perfect as a side dish for holiday meals or weeknight dinners, this dish is both rustic and elegant.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish strikes the perfect balance between savory and sweet. Roasting enhances the natural sugars in the carrots and parsnips, while a touch of honey and seasoning adds depth of flavor. It’s easy to prepare, requires minimal ingredients, and can complement a wide range of main courses from roasts to plant-based entrees.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Carrots
• Parsnips
• Olive oil
• Honey
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Fresh thyme (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Peel the carrots and parsnips, then cut them into uniform sticks or batons.
3. Place the vegetables on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil and honey.
4. Season with salt and black pepper. Toss everything together to ensure even coating.
5. Roast in the oven for 30 to 40 minutes, turning once halfway through, until tender and caramelized.
6. If desired, garnish with fresh thyme before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Use maple syrup instead of honey for a deeper, richer sweetness.
• Add a pinch of cumin or cinnamon for a spiced twist.
• Incorporate red onions or sweet potatoes for added variety.
• Sprinkle with toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts before serving for added crunch.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or microwave for 1-2 minutes until warm. For best texture, avoid reheating in the microwave if possible.

FAQs

How do I keep the vegetables from becoming soggy?

Ensure they are spread out in a single layer on the baking sheet, and avoid overcrowding to allow even roasting.

Can I prepare this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can roast the vegetables a day ahead and reheat them in the oven before serving.

Can I use baby carrots or pre-cut carrots?

Yes, though you may need to adjust the cooking time depending on their thickness.

Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this dish is completely vegetarian-friendly.

Can I make this dish vegan?

Simply substitute the honey with maple syrup or agave nectar to make it vegan.

What is the best way to peel parsnips?

Use a standard vegetable peeler, and trim both ends before cutting them into sticks.

Should I parboil the vegetables before roasting?

No, roasting from raw allows the vegetables to caramelize better and maintain their texture.

Can I add garlic to the recipe?

Yes, tossing in whole or minced garlic adds a wonderful depth of flavor.

What main dishes pair well with this side?

Roasted meats like chicken, lamb, or beef, as well as lentil loaf or baked tofu.

Can I freeze roasted carrots and parsnips?

It is not recommended, as freezing can make the texture mushy upon reheating.

Conclusion

Roasted carrots and parsnips with honey is a simple yet refined dish that delivers on both flavor and presentation. Its naturally sweet and earthy profile makes it an ideal side for a variety of meals, whether casual or festive. Easy to prepare and customizable, it’s a dependable addition to any kitchen repertoire.

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