Honey Lemon Roasted Carrots Recipe

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Honey Roasted Carrots with Pistachios and Mint

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 bunch (1 pound) thin carrots, no larger than 1-inch in diameter
• 1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons chopped pistachios
• 1 tablespoon minced fresh mint

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375F (190C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Trim the tops of the carrots, leaving about 1 inch of stem for visual appeal. Scrub the carrots under running water and dry them thoroughly.
3. Place the carrots on the prepared baking sheet and drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Toss the carrots to coat them evenly.
4. Roast the carrots in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until they are slightly undercooked.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining 1 teaspoon of olive oil, honey, lemon juice, ground cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
6. Brush the mixture over the partially roasted carrots, then return them to the oven and continue roasting for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, or until the carrots are tender.
7. Turn the carrots every 5 minutes to ensure they roast evenly.
8. Once cooked, place the carrots on a serving platter and top with the chopped pistachios and minced mint before serving.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrient	Amount	% Daily Value
Calories	120
Total Fat	7g	8%
Saturated Fat	1g	4%
Cholesterol	0mg	0%
Sodium	158mg	7%
Total Carbohydrate	15g	5%
Dietary Fiber	4g	14%
Total Sugars	9g
Protein	2g	4%
Vitamin C	5mg	5%
Calcium	42mg	3%
Iron	1mg	4%
Potassium	317mg	7%

Note: Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Origin Story

Honey Lemon Roasted Carrots combine two key ingredients from various global culinary traditionshoney and citrusinto a deliciously simple dish. The pairing of sweet honey with tangy lemon is thought to have originated from Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines, where both honey and citrus fruits like lemons have long been used to complement the natural sweetness of vegetables. Carrots, a vegetable that has been cultivated for thousands of years, add a savory element to the sweetness of the glaze, making it a perfect side dish for numerous meals. This modern recipe, though widely popular in the United States, draws on these ancient and flavorful roots.

Regional Features

The recipe for Honey Lemon Roasted Carrots has found its way into many kitchens across the world, but its roots are most closely tied to American cuisine, particularly as part of contemporary side dishes in the spring. In Mediterranean countries, roasted vegetables drizzled with olive oil and seasoned with honey and citrus are common, often highlighting the regions use of fresh, seasonal produce. The use of pistachios and mint as garnishes adds a layer of freshness and crunch, further elevating the flavors typical of the Middle East.

Difference from Similar Dishes

Unlike traditional roasted carrots, which are typically seasoned with salt, pepper, and perhaps a dash of herbs, Honey Lemon Roasted Carrots stand out due to their sweet and tangy glaze. The addition of honey and lemon gives the dish a fruity, caramelized sweetness that contrasts nicely with the earthy, savory flavor of the carrots. Other similar dishes might incorporate brown sugar or balsamic vinegar for sweetness, but this recipe uniquely balances the fresh citrus tang with honey's smooth sweetness, creating a more balanced and less acidic finish.

Where It's Typically Served

Honey Lemon Roasted Carrots are a versatile side dish often served in American households during family dinners, holiday meals, or at gatherings such as Thanksgiving or Easter. The vibrant colors and light, fresh flavors make it a great addition to spring and summer meals, particularly when paired with roasted meats like chicken, lamb, or pork. Its also a hit at potlucks, where the sweet-savory combination is sure to please a variety of palates. Additionally, in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean restaurants, similar dishes are often served as part of mezze platters or as a side to grilled meats and flatbreads.

Fun Facts

Carrots, one of the oldest cultivated vegetables, were originally purple or yellow before the familiar orange variety was developed in the 17th century in the Netherlands. Additionally, honey has been used by humans for thousands of years, dating back to ancient Egyptian and Greek civilizations. The combination of honey and lemon as a flavoring for vegetables has gained popularity in recent years, largely due to the increasing demand for fresh, healthier side dishes. In fact, research shows that honey not only sweetens but also has antioxidant properties, making it a beneficial addition to any diet. This dish can also be easily customized with different nuts, herbs, or spices depending on your taste, making it adaptable to a variety of culinary traditions.

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