Ever encountered a side dish so vibrant that it practically dances off the plate?
These Honey Harissa Carrots are not just any ordinary roasted carrots. Their sweet and spicy flavor will have you coming back for seconds (or thirds!). Plus, they’re incredibly easy to whip up, making them the perfect addition to any meal — busy weeknights or festive gatherings.
Why make this recipe
You’ll love these carrots for a couple of reasons:
Simple Cleanup: Who wants a mountain of dishes? Not us! These beauties roast on just one pan, saving you time and energy.
Affordable Ingredients: Most of the ingredients are pantry staples. You can make a delicious side without breaking the bank (or your kitchen!).
Family-Friendly: Even the pickiest eaters might find themselves asking for more! Sweet honey with a spicy kick — what’s not to love?
Ingredients
You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!
- 2 pounds carrots
- 3 Tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- 2 Tablespoons harissa paste
- 2 Tablespoons honey
- 1½ teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Directions
Ready to bring some color to your plate? Follow these simple steps:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Peel the carrots and slice them into 2-inch pieces.
- In a bowl, whisk together the melted butter, harissa paste, honey, apple cider vinegar, and kosher salt.
- Toss the carrots in the bowl until they’re well-coated with that tasty spice mixture.
- Spread the carrots in a single layer on a baking sheet or in a large baking dish.
- Bake for 25 minutes until the carrots start to brown and are fork-tender. Don’t forget to toss halfway through to ensure even cooking.
- Serve with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top for that perfect finish!
How to make Honey Harissa Carrots (Overview)
Making these Honey Harissa Carrots is a breeze! Start by roasting those lovely carrots in a hot oven, while you whip up a quick spicy-sweet glaze. Just toss everything together, layer them on a baking sheet, and pop them into the oven. And remember, don’t skip tossing the carrots halfway through; it’s essential for that perfectly roasted finish!
How to serve Honey Harissa Carrots
These carrots are a total showstopper! Their bright orange hue and caramelized edges make for an eye-catching side that smells oh-so heavenly. Pair them with a protein like grilled chicken or a hearty veggie grain bowl. They’ll add a delightful crunch with a hint of caramel sweetness that balances any savory dish perfectly.
How to store Honey Harissa Carrots
Got leftovers? Lucky you! Store these honey harissa carrots in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. For longer storage, pop them in the freezer, where they’ll keep for about 3 months. Just reheat them in the oven or microwave to enjoy that freshly roasted flavor again.
Tips to make Honey Harissa Carrots
Here are a few insider tricks to elevate your dish:
Slice Evenly: Make sure all your carrot pieces are about the same size for consistent cooking.
Adjust the Heat: If you like a little more kick, add extra harissa or a dash of cayenne to the glaze.
Garlic Lovers Unite: Toss in a few cloves of minced garlic for an extra flavor punch – you won’t regret it!
Fresh vs. Dried: Fresh parsley makes for a beautiful garnish, but feel free to use other herbs like cilantro or dill for a different twist.
Vegan Option: Substitute the butter with olive oil for a plant-based version that’s equally delicious!
Variation
Want to switch things up? Try adding other root vegetables like parsnips or sweet potatoes to the mix for a colorful and textural blend. Feel free to use maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan-friendly sweetener, or even experiment with different spices like cumin or smoked paprika for a unique flavor twist.
FAQs
Can I use frozen carrots?
While fresh carrots yield the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen ones. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
How can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prep the carrots and the glaze in advance and store them separately. Just combine and roast when you’re ready!
What’s harissa paste, and can I substitute it?
Harissa is a North African chili pepper paste full of flavor! If you can’t find it, you can use sriracha or another spicy condiment, but the flavor will differ slightly.
📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!
Honey Harissa Carrots
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 2 pounds carrots peeled and sliced into 2-inch pieces
- 3 Tablespoons unsalted butter melted
- 2 Tablespoons harissa paste
- 2 Tablespoons honey
- 1.5 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Peel the carrots and slice them into 2-inch pieces.
- In a bowl, whisk together the melted butter, harissa paste, honey, apple cider vinegar, and kosher salt.
- Toss the carrots in the bowl until they’re well-coated with the spice mixture.
- Spread the carrots in a single layer on a baking sheet or in a large baking dish.
- Bake for 25 minutes until the carrots start to brown and are fork-tender, tossing halfway through.
- Serve with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top.
Notes
Printable Recipe Card
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