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Fresh Glazed Baby Carrots with Ginger and Herbs

fresh glazed baby carrots - featured image

A quick and easy side dish featuring baby carrots glazed with a bright, spicy ginger and fresh herb sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound baby carrots, peeled if not pre-peeled
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, finely grated
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (or olive oil for dairy-free)
  • 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup water or vegetable broth (60 ml)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse 1 pound of baby carrots under cold water and peel if necessary. Pat dry.
  2. Finely grate 1 tablespoon fresh ginger and 1 teaspoon lemon zest using a microplane.
  3. Finely chop 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves and 1 tablespoon fresh parsley. Set aside.
  4. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons unsalted butter. Add grated ginger and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, avoiding browning.
  5. Stir in 2 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup) and 1/4 cup water or vegetable broth. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  6. Add baby carrots to the pan and toss gently to coat in the glaze. Cover skillet with lid and reduce heat to medium-low. Steam carrots for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender but still slightly crisp.
  7. Remove lid and increase heat to medium. Let glaze reduce, stirring often, until thickened and coating the carrots, about 3-4 minutes. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
  8. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir in chopped thyme, parsley, lemon zest, and red pepper flakes if using.
  9. Give the carrots a final gentle toss to meld flavors. Serve immediately warm.

Notes

If glaze is too thick or sticks, add a splash of water to loosen. Avoid overcooking ginger to prevent bitterness. Use fresh herbs for best flavor. Serve immediately for best texture and shine. Can substitute olive oil and maple syrup for vegan version. Roasting carrots at 425°F for 20 minutes is a tasty alternative method.

Nutrition

Keywords: baby carrots, glazed carrots, ginger, fresh herbs, side dish, easy recipe, quick, healthy, vegetarian, gluten-free