There’s something incredibly comforting about the smell of root vegetables roasting in the oven during a chilly winter evening. One of my absolute favorite recipes to brighten up a dinner plate is Balsamic Glazed Roasted Carrots. This simple side dish strikes a beautiful balance between sweet and tangy — and it’s one of those easy-to-make recipes that tastes gourmet.
This dish was a staple on my Nonna’s Sunday table. While her version used a drizzle of local aceto balsamico and a wood-fired oven, this updated twist works perfectly in any kitchen and still captures that rustic, caramelized flavor. Whether you’re serving a holiday feast or a weekday dinner, this recipe brings warmth, elegance, and flavor to your table.
Why You’ll Love These Balsamic Glazed Roasted Carrots
- Naturally sweet & flavorful: Roasting brings out the natural sugars in carrots.
- Minimal ingredients, big flavor: The balsamic glaze deepens the taste without fuss.
- Perfect for meal prep: Keeps beautifully and pairs well with proteins.
- Elegant & easy: A simple dish that looks beautiful on the plate.
Ingredients
To make this balsamic glazed roasted carrots recipe, you’ll need just a few pantry staples:
- 1 lb (450g) carrots, peeled and trimmed (cut large ones in half)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar (good quality)
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or ½ tsp dried)
- Optional garnish: Chopped parsley or crumbled feta
Instructions
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Serves: 4
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat for easy cleanup.
Place the peeled carrots on the tray and drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and thyme. Toss to coat evenly.
Step 2: Roast
Spread the carrots in a single layer on the baking sheet. Roast in the oven for about 20 minutes, turning once halfway through.
Step 3: Glaze It Up
While the carrots are roasting, prepare the glaze. In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the balsamic vinegar and honey (or maple syrup). Simmer gently until slightly thickened — about 3–5 minutes.
Step 4: Finish and Serve
After the carrots have roasted for 20 minutes, drizzle the balsamic glaze over them and return to the oven for another 10–15 minutes until tender and caramelized.
Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley or crumbled feta if you like a creamy contrast.
Tips for Perfect Balsamic Glazed Roasted Carrots
- Uniform size matters: Cut carrots to similar thickness for even roasting.
- Use real balsamic vinegar: Avoid cheap imitations for the best glaze.
- Make it vegan: Swap honey for maple syrup.
- Add crunch: Top with toasted almonds or walnuts.
Pairing Suggestions
These balsamic glazed roasted carrots are incredibly versatile. Serve them with:
- Herb-roasted chicken or turkey
- Grilled tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian main
- Creamy mashed potatoes or wild rice
Nutrition Snapshot (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~110
- Carbs: 16g
- Fat: 5g
- Protein: 1g
- Fiber: 3g
Final Thoughts
When you need a go-to vegetable dish that’s simple, classy, and a little special, Balsamic Glazed Roasted Carrots are your answer. It’s one of those recipes that looks impressive but takes minimal effort — and that’s exactly the kind of cooking I love to share with you.