Glazed Carrots
Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive
Elevate your Thanksgiving dinner with these beautifully glazed carrots that are sweet, savory, and perfectly tender. This simple and elegant side dish features fresh carrots tossed in a rich glaze of brown sugar and butter, making it a delightful addition to your holiday spread. Experience the warmth of the season with this easy-to-make recipe that's sure to impress family and friends alike.
Glazed carrots are not only a delicious side dish but also a beautiful addition to any holiday table. The balance of sweetness and savory notes in this recipe makes them a favorite among kids and adults alike.
A Perfect Thanksgiving Side
Glazed carrots bring a burst of color and flavor to your Thanksgiving table. Their vibrant orange hue not only brightens the plate but also adds a refreshing contrast to richer dishes like turkey and stuffing. This elegant side dish is a wonderful way to celebrate the season's produce at its peak.
Not only are glazed carrots visually appealing, but they also offer a delightful combination of flavors. The sweetness of the brown sugar melds beautifully with the earthy taste of fresh carrots, creating a well-rounded dish that complements savory mains. This simple recipe can elevate your holiday experience.
Easy Preparation for Hassle-Free Cooking
One of the best features of this glazed carrots recipe is its simplicity. With only a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip them up in no time. Boiling the carrots makes them tender, while the glaze adds a rich flavor without requiring complex techniques.
This dish is also highly adaptable. You can adjust the sweetness by adding more or less brown sugar or even experiment with different herbs for garnish. This flexibility means you can easily tailor the glazed carrots to suit your family’s taste preferences, making it a must-have on your holiday menu.
Health Benefits of Carrots
In addition to their scrumptious taste, carrots are packed with nutrients. They are an excellent source of beta-carotene, which converts to vitamin A in the body. This vitamin is vital for maintaining good vision, skin health, and immune function, making this dish not just tasty but nutritious as well.
Carrots also provide dietary fiber, which is essential for digestive health. Including them in your Thanksgiving spread means you're not only satisfying your taste buds but also contributing to a balanced meal that aligns with healthier eating habits during the holiday season.
Ingredients
Ingredients
Glazed Carrots Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Feel free to adjust the sweetness of the glaze by adding more or less brown sugar based on your preference.
Instructions
Instructions
Prepare the Carrots
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the sliced carrots and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Make the Glaze
In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar and cook until the mixture is bubbly.
Combine and Serve
Add the cooked carrots back into the pot and toss to coat in the glaze. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Garnish
Transfer the glazed carrots to a serving dish and sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired.
Serve warm as a delightful side dish.
Tips for Perfect Glazed Carrots
To achieve perfectly glazed carrots, ensure they are sliced evenly to allow for consistent cooking. For a dash of extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the glaze if you enjoy a hint of warmth during the holiday season.
If you prefer a bit of crunch, you can sauté the cooked carrots in the glaze instead of simmering them. This approach will caramelize the sugar and enhance the overall taste, giving you that coveted gourmet touch right at home.
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, glazed carrots can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, gently warm them on the stove over medium heat to avoid losing their texture and flavor.
For future use, consider freezing the glazed carrots. While they may lose some of their original crunch, they will still be delicious. Just thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat when you're ready to enjoy them again, making meal prep easier on busy days.
Pairing Suggestions
These glazed carrots pair excellently with a variety of main courses. They complement roasted meats such as turkey, ham, or beef beautifully. The sweetness of the carrots balances the savory flavors of the meat, creating a harmonious dining experience.
Additionally, the dish can be served alongside other vegetarian options like creamy mashed potatoes or rich stuffing. Mixing different textures and flavors on your plate will delight your guests, making your Thanksgiving dinner unforgettable.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make glazed carrots ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the glazed carrots a few hours in advance and reheat them just before serving.
→ What other vegetables can I glaze?
You can use a similar glaze on vegetables like parsnips, sweet potatoes, or turnips.
Glazed Carrots
Elevate your Thanksgiving dinner with these beautifully glazed carrots that are sweet, savory, and perfectly tender. This simple and elegant side dish features fresh carrots tossed in a rich glaze of brown sugar and butter, making it a delightful addition to your holiday spread. Experience the warmth of the season with this easy-to-make recipe that's sure to impress family and friends alike.
Created by: Emma Johnson
Recipe Type: Seasonal & Festive
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Glazed Carrots Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
How-To Steps
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the sliced carrots and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes. Drain and set aside.
In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar and cook until the mixture is bubbly.
Add the cooked carrots back into the pot and toss to coat in the glaze. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Transfer the glazed carrots to a serving dish and sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Protein: 1g