What To Know
- Spread the carrots in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Add other root vegetables, such as parsnips or turnips, to the roasting pan for a more flavorful side dish.
- Roast the carrots until they are slightly caramelized but still have a bit of a bite to them.
Christmas is a time for joy, laughter, and delicious food. And what could be more festive than a classic Christmas carrot recipe? This side dish is a staple at many holiday gatherings, and for good reason. It’s easy to make, affordable, and oh-so-delicious.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound carrots, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius).
2. Prepare the carrots: In a large bowl, combine the carrots, olive oil, onion, garlic, honey, orange juice, cinnamon, ginger, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
3. Spread on a baking sheet: Spread the carrots in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Roast: Roast the carrots for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly browned.
5. Serve: Serve the roasted carrots warm as a side dish or appetizer.
Christmas Carrot Variations:
- Brown Sugar Glaze: Add 1/4 cup of brown sugar to the honey and orange juice mixture for a sweeter glaze.
- Maple Syrup Glaze: Substitute maple syrup for the honey for a richer flavor.
- Cranberry-Orange Sauce: Cook 1 cup of cranberries with 1/2 cup of orange juice and 1/4 cup of sugar until thickened. Serve the sauce over the roasted carrots.
- Roasted Vegetables: Add other root vegetables, such as parsnips or turnips, to the roasting pan for a more flavorful side dish.
- Herbed Carrots: Add 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh thyme or rosemary to the carrots for an extra layer of flavor.
Tips:
- For the best flavor, use fresh, high-quality carrots.
- Cut the carrots into uniform pieces so they cook evenly.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. If necessary, use two baking sheets.
- Roast the carrots until they are slightly caramelized but still have a bit of a bite to them.
- Serve the roasted carrots immediately for the best flavor.
Nutritional Information:
One serving of Christmas carrots (1/2 cup) contains approximately:
- Calories: 100
- Fat: 4 grams
- Carbohydrates: 18 grams
- Protein: 2 grams
- Fiber: 4 grams
Health Benefits:
Christmas carrots are not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious. They are a good source of:
- Vitamin A: Essential for vision, immune function, and skin health.
- Vitamin C: An antioxidant that helps protect against cell damage.
- Potassium: Important for blood pressure regulation and heart health.
- Fiber: Promotes digestive health and helps you feel full.
In a nutshell:
This Christmas carrot recipe is a must-have for your holiday celebrations. It’s easy to make, affordable, and packed with flavor and nutrients. Whether you serve it as a side dish or appetizer, your guests are sure to love it.
Frequently Discussed Topics
Q: Can I use frozen carrots for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen carrots. However, it’s important to thaw them completely before roasting.
Q: How do I store leftover roasted carrots?
A: Leftover roasted carrots can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can roast the carrots ahead of time and reheat them before serving. Simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
