Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Naturally Sweet and Tangy – The combination of citrus juice and honey enhances the natural sweetness of the carrots.
- Quick and Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal prep.
- Pairs Well with Everything – A versatile side that complements meats, poultry, and vegetarian dishes.
- Healthy and Nutritious – Packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants.
- Great for Special Occasions – A colorful, elegant addition to holiday meals.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Carrots (whole or baby)
- Orange juice
- Lemon juice
- Honey or maple syrup
- Butter
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Fresh thyme (optional)
- Orange zest (for garnish)
Directions
- Prepare the carrots by peeling and cutting them into even-sized pieces. If using baby carrots, leave them whole.
- Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Sauté the carrots for 5 minutes until they start to soften.
- Add the citrus glaze by mixing orange juice, lemon juice, honey, salt, and black pepper, then pouring it over the carrots.
- Simmer and reduce the glaze for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the carrots are tender and coated in a glossy sauce.
- Garnish with orange zest and fresh thyme before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
- Spiced Glazed Carrots – Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth.
- Ginger Citrus Carrots – Stir in freshly grated ginger for a zingy kick.
- Savory Twist – Reduce the honey and add a splash of balsamic vinegar for a tangier flavor.
- Nutty Crunch – Sprinkle toasted almonds or pecans on top for added texture.
- Roasted Version – Roast carrots in the oven at 400°F (200°C) with the glaze for a caramelized effect.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the texture may become mushy.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat or microwave in short intervals until heated through.
FAQs
Can I use baby carrots instead of whole carrots?
Yes! Baby carrots work well and require no peeling or chopping.
How do I prevent the glaze from burning?
Cook over medium heat and stir occasionally to prevent the honey from caramelizing too quickly.
Can I use bottled orange juice instead of fresh?
Fresh juice provides the best flavor, but bottled orange juice works as a substitute.
What main dishes pair well with citrus-glazed carrots?
They complement roasted chicken, grilled salmon, steak, and vegetarian dishes like quinoa bowls.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Reheat gently in a pan before serving to maintain the glaze’s texture.
How can I make the dish vegan?
Use maple syrup instead of honey and replace butter with extra olive oil.
Can I roast the carrots instead of sautéing them?
Yes! Roast them at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, tossing with the glaze halfway through.
Can I add herbs other than thyme?
Absolutely! Rosemary, parsley, or basil all work well.
How do I make the glaze thicker?
Let it simmer longer until it reduces, or add a small amount of cornstarch slurry for a thicker consistency.
Are citrus-glazed carrots good for meal prep?
Yes! They reheat well and can be stored for several days.
Conclusion
Citrus-Glazed Carrots are a simple yet flavorful side dish that brightens up any meal. With their natural sweetness and refreshing citrus glaze, they’re perfect for both everyday dinners and special occasions. Quick to prepare and full of nutrients, these carrots will become a go-to favorite on your table!
Print
Citrus-Glazed Carrots
- Total Time: 25min
- Yield: 4servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Citrus-Glazed Carrots are a bright, flavorful side dish that combines the natural sweetness of carrots with a tangy, glossy citrus glaze. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for holiday gatherings or weeknight dinners, adding a refreshing and elegant touch to any meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb carrots (peeled and cut into even-sized pieces or use baby carrots)
- ½ cup fresh orange juice
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp orange zest (for garnish)
- 1 tsp fresh thyme (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Carrots – Peel and cut carrots into even-sized pieces. If using baby carrots, leave them whole.
- Sauté the Carrots – Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the carrots and sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Make the Citrus Glaze – In a bowl, mix orange juice, lemon juice, honey, salt, and black pepper. Pour over the carrots.
- Simmer and Glaze – Reduce heat and let the carrots simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become tender and the glaze thickens.
- Garnish & Serve – Remove from heat and sprinkle with orange zest and fresh thyme before serving.
Notes
- For a thicker glaze, simmer longer or add a cornstarch slurry.
- To make it vegan, use maple syrup instead of honey and replace butter with olive oil.
- For roasted carrots, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, tossing with the glaze halfway through.
- Prep Time: 5min
- Cook Time: 20min
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American, Mediterranean
