Honey Mustard Glazed Carrots: Transform Your Vegetable Game

Looking for a side dish that will steal the show at your next meal? These Honey Mustard Glazed Carrots are about to become your new go-to recipe. Combining the natural sweetness of honey with the tangy kick of two different mustards, this dish elevates humble carrots into a culinary masterpiece that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Read more: Honey Mustard Glazed Carrots: Transform Your Vegetable Game

Why Tri-Colored Carrots Make All the Difference

Not all carrots are created equal, and tri-colored carrots are the secret weapon in this recipe. Unlike standard orange carrots, this vibrant mix includes purple, yellow, and orange carrots that look stunning on the plate and offer a more complex flavor profile and additional nutritional benefits.

That said, if you can’t find tri-colored carrots, regular carrots will work too! While there are benefits to tri-colored carrots, eating any carrot is better than no carrots!

Nutritional Powerhouse

• Purple carrots contain powerful antioxidants
• Yellow carrots are rich in lutein, which is important for eye health
• Orange carrots provide classic beta-carotene

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this show-stopping side dish, gather:

• 1 bag of tri-colored carrots
• 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons whole grain mustard
• 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• Fresh parsley
• Balsamic glaze (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Preparation

1. Wash and Peel: Start by thoroughly washing your tri-colored carrots. Peeling is optional but recommended for a smoother texture.
2. Cut with Precision: Slice carrots on a bias (diagonal) about 1/2 inch thick. This technique ensures even cooking and creates an elegant presentation.

The Honey Mustard Magic

3. Create the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together:
   • HoneyDijon mustardWhole grain mustard balsamic vinegar
   This combination creates a complex, sweet-tangy sauce that will transform your carrots.

Cooking Process

4. Sauté:
   • Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat
   • Add carrots, season with salt and pepper
   • Sauté for 10 minutes, allowing carrots to develop a slight caramelization
5. Glazing:
   • Pour the honey mustard mixture over the carrots
   • Continue cooking for another 10 minutes
   • Stir frequently to ensure even coating and prevent burning
6. Test for Doneness: Cook until carrots are fork-tender. The carrots should easily be pierced with a fork but still maintain a slight bite.

Pro Tips for Perfect Carrots

Cooking Techniques

• Pan Temperature: Medium heat is crucial. Too high, and you’ll burn the glaze; too low, and you won’t get proper caramelization.
• Stirring: Frequent stirring prevents sticking and ensures every carrot gets coated in the delicious glaze.

Flavor Variations

• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat
• Substitute maple syrup for honey for a different sweet note
• Sprinkle with toasted nuts for added crunch

Serving Suggestions

Garnish with:

• Freshly chopped parsley
• A drizzle of balsamic glaze
• Optional: crumbled goat cheese or feta

Pairings

These carrots complement:

• Roasted chicken
• Grilled salmon
• Thanksgiving Turkey
• Any protein needing a vibrant side dish

Make-Ahead and Storage

• Refrigerate for up to 3 days
• Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave
• Best served warm, but also delicious at room temperature

Nutrition Information

Per serving (approximate):

• Calories: 120
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 4g
• Fiber: 3g

Final Thoughts

Honey Mustard Glazed Carrots prove that vegetables can be exciting, delicious, and the star of any meal. With minimal ingredients and simple techniques, you can transform an ordinary side dish into something extraordinary.

Pro tip: Make extra – these carrots disappear quickly!