Honey Mustard Roasted Carrots

Name: Honey Mustard Roasted Carrots
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound of fresh carrots, peeled and cut into sticks; 2 tablespoons honey; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love the vibrant colors and sweet taste of Honey Mustard Roasted Carrots! When I first tried this recipe, I was amazed at how a simple combination of honey, mustard, and fresh carrots could create such a mouthwatering dish. It’s my go-to side for family dinners and gatherings, as the flavors blend beautifully and the bright orange hue adds a cheerful touch to the table. Plus, it's an effortless recipe that requires minimal prep, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.

Created by

Helena Wright

Last updated on 2026-01-15T16:19:20.045Z

When I first experimented with roasting carrots, I was surprised by how sweet and tender they became. The honey mustard glaze not only enhances their natural flavors but also adds an exciting twist that elevates this humble vegetable dish to a whole new level. I especially enjoy using fresh, organic carrots to capture the best taste possible.

Using a high heat in the oven helps to caramelize the honey, creating a deliciously sticky coating that clings to each carrot slice. I recommend serving these roasted carrots warm, perhaps garnished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for that final touch of flavor and color.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Deliciously sweet and tangy flavor profile
Bright, colorful presentation that appeals to everyone
Easy to make with minimal ingredients
Great side dish for any meal, from casual to festive

      

Why Carrots Shine in This Recipe

Carrots are the star of this dish, offering natural sweetness that pairs perfectly with the tang of Dijon mustard and the richness of honey. Choosing fresh, vibrant carrots is crucial to achieving that delightful flavor and crisp texture. The natural sugars in the carrots caramelize beautifully in the oven, resulting in a dish that's visually appealing and has a great mouthfeel. To ensure you get the best out of your carrots, look for firm, smooth-skinned varieties with vibrant color, avoiding any that are dull or have blemishes.

When roasting carrots, the size of your cuts is vital. Cutting them into uniform sticks approximately 1/2 inch thick ensures even cooking and caramelization. If you prefer a bit of variation, you can try cutting them into rounds or diagonals, but keep the sizes consistent. Smaller pieces will cook faster, so keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking, which can result in mushy textures. By maintaining that balance, you're on your way to tender yet crisp roasted carrots.

Enhancing Flavors and Textures

In addition to the traditional honey and Dijon mustard, consider experimenting with different types of mustards for a unique twist. Whole grain mustard can add a delightful crunch and an earthy texture, while spicy brown mustard can bring a bit more kick to the dish. If you're feeling adventurous, a dash of balsamic vinegar can introduce a sweet acidity that harmonizes beautifully with the natural sweetness of the carrots. Always adjust honey levels according to your mustard choice; a spicier mustard may need more honey to balance the flavors.

Don't shy away from personalizing your roasting process! Adding garlic cloves or fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the mix can elevate the flavor profile significantly. You can toss in some minced garlic for the last five minutes of roasting to avoid burning or sprinkle fresh thyme over the carrots halfway through cooking. Just ensure that the additional ingredients do not overcrowd your baking sheet. The key is to give everything enough space to roast rather than steam for optimal results.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your Honey Mustard Roasted Carrots:

Ingredients

1 pound of fresh carrots, peeled and cut into sticks
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

With these tasty ingredients at hand, you're ready to create a vibrant and flavorful side dish.

Instructions

Here’s how to make Honey Mustard Roasted Carrots in just a few simple steps:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is key to achieving those beautifully caramelized edges.

Prepare the Carrots

In a large bowl, combine the peeled and cut carrots with olive oil, honey, and Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper, then toss until evenly coated.

Roast the Carrots

Spread the coated carrots in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even cooking.

Garnish and Serve

Once the carrots are tender and caramelized, remove them from the oven. Transfer to a serving dish, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.

Enjoy your delicious Honey Mustard Roasted Carrots as a perfect accompaniment to any meal!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try sprinkling some sesame seeds on top before serving. They add a nice crunch and nutty flavor that complements the carrots perfectly.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftover Honey Mustard Roasted Carrots, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, spread them out on a baking sheet and place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This method helps to retain their original crispiness, unlike microwaving, which can lead to a soggy texture. If you're in a hurry, a quick stir-fry in a hot skillet with a pinch of olive oil can also work wonders.

For meal prep enthusiasts, these roasted carrots can easily be made in advance and served cold as a salad topping or side. Consider pairing them with a grain like quinoa or farro, adding a fresh vinaigrette, or tossing them into wraps for added flavor and nutrition. Their versatility makes them ideal for not just special occasions but also day-to-day meals.

Scaling the Recipe

Scaling this recipe for larger gatherings is straightforward. Simply double or triple the ingredients based on the number of serving. Just be mindful not to overcrowd the baking sheet, as this will trap steam and prevent caramelization. Use multiple sheets if needed, and consider rotating their positions halfway through cooking to ensure even roasting if you're using multiple trays.

If you're looking to incorporate more vegetables, feel free to add other root vegetables such as parsnips or sweet potatoes, as their roasting times are similar to carrots. Just cut them into similar sizes to ensure everything cooks evenly. This not only adds variety to your dish but also introduces different textures and flavors that complement the honey mustard dressing beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use baby carrots for this recipe?

Yes, baby carrots work great! You might need to adjust the cooking time slightly since they are smaller.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and reheat in the oven for best results.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the carrots and the honey mustard mixture in advance. Just roast them on the day you plan to serve.

→ What can I serve this dish with?

These carrots pair beautifully with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or served alongside a hearty grain salad.