Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Slice the Carrots
- Lay each carrot on a flat surface, then, using a sharp knife, make thin slices along the length of each carrot, leaving about 1/4 inch intact at the bottom. Tip: Place chopsticks or two wooden spoons on each side of the carrot to help prevent slicing all the way through.
3. Season the Carrots
- Arrange the carrots on the baking sheet. Drizzle them with olive oil or melted butter, and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Gently toss to ensure even coating, making sure some oil seeps into the slices.
4. Honey Glaze
- In a small bowl, mix honey with the minced garlic (if using). Brush the mixture generously over the carrots, allowing it to seep into the Hasselback slices.
5. Roast
- Roast the carrots in the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they’re tender and caramelized. Halfway through, brush additional honey glaze over the carrots for extra flavor.
6. Garnish and Serve
- Remove from the oven and let the carrots cool slightly. Garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary, if desired, for a pop of color and flavor. Serve warm as a side dish to complement any main course.
Tips:
- Selecting Carrots: Choose medium-sized carrots that are uniform in size for even cooking. Baby carrots can also work, but you may need to adjust cooking time.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the Hasselback slices and honey glaze in advance, then pop them in the oven when you’re ready to serve.
- Pairing Suggestions: These honeyed carrots pair wonderfully with roasted chicken, pork tenderloin, or a nutty quinoa salad.
Why You’ll Love It
Honeyed Hasselback Carrots are a beautiful blend of simplicity and sophistication. With the natural sweetness of honey balanced by a hint of savory garlic, they’re a delightful dish that even picky eaters will enjoy.
This recipe will bring color and warmth to any meal—making these carrots an unforgettable side!