If you’re looking for a side dish that’s both simple and elegant, look no further than these Honey-Glazed Roasted Carrots with Goat Cheese and Fresh Thyme. This recipe transforms ordinary carrots into a gourmet delight with a combination of sweet honey, smoky spices, and creamy goat cheese, all topped off with the aromatic touch of fresh thyme. It’s an easy dish to prepare, yet its flavors are sophisticated enough to impress guests or elevate your everyday meals.
A Sweet and Savory Flavor Combo
The magic of this dish lies in the harmonious blend of flavors. Roasting the carrots brings out their natural sweetness, which is beautifully enhanced by the addition of honey. Smoked paprika and ground coriander add a subtle depth of flavor, while the creamy goat cheese adds richness. The fresh thyme leaves complete the dish with their fragrant, earthy notes.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 large carrots, peeled and sliced into sticks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons honey
- Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure your carrots cook evenly and develop that irresistible caramelization.
- In a large bowl, toss the carrot sticks with olive oil, smoked paprika, ground coriander, salt, and pepper. This spice mix adds a warm, smoky flavor that complements the sweetness of the honey.
- Spread the carrots on a baking sheet in a single layer, ensuring they roast evenly. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until they’re tender and slightly caramelized. The high heat brings out their natural sugars, making them even sweeter.
- Once roasted, remove from the oven and transfer the carrots to a serving dish.
- Drizzle the carrots with honey for a glossy finish that intensifies their natural sweetness.
- Sprinkle crumbled goat cheese on top. The goat cheese will soften slightly from the heat of the carrots, creating a creamy contrast to the roasted texture.
- Finally, garnish with fresh thyme leaves. The thyme adds a fresh, herby note that ties all the flavors together.
Why You’ll Love This Dish:
Not only is this side dish delicious, but it’s also a visual stunner with the vibrant colors of roasted carrots, the creamy white goat cheese, and the pop of green from the thyme. It’s a great choice for holiday dinners, family gatherings, or even a simple weeknight meal.
Serving Suggestions:
Pair these roasted carrots with roasted chicken, grilled fish, or a hearty vegetarian main for a well-rounded, nutritious meal. The sweet and savory combination will complement a variety of proteins and grains.
In just under 30 minutes, you’ll have a flavorful and visually appealing side dish that’s sure to become a favorite. Enjoy the blend of honey’s natural sweetness, the creamy tang of goat cheese, and the fresh aroma of thyme in every bite!
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Honey-Glazed Roasted Carrots with Goat Cheese and Fresh Thyme
Description
Elevate your side dish game with this recipe for roasted carrots. These carrots are coated in a delightful blend of spices, honey, and olive oil, then roasted to perfection. Finished with creamy goat cheese and fresh thyme, they’re a sweet and savory treat that’s simple to prepare but sophisticated in flavor.
Ingredients
4 large carrots, peeled and sliced into sticks
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon ground coriander
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
2 tablespoons honey
Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400F (200C).
In a large bowl, toss the carrot sticks with olive oil, smoked paprika, ground coriander, salt, and pepper.
Spread the carrots on a baking sheet in a single layer and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
Once roasted, remove from the oven and transfer to a serving dish.
Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with crumbled goat cheese.
Garnish with fresh thyme leaves before serving.