These grilled carrots are sweet and colorful, perfect for any meal! They get a yummy glaze made from honey and brown sugar, making them irresistible.
I love how easy these are to make on the grill. Just toss those carrots on, drizzle with the glaze, and watch them sizzle. They disappear fast at my dinner table!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baby Carrots: These are great because they cook evenly and have a naturally sweet flavor. If baby carrots aren’t available, you can use large carrots; just cut them into uniform strips for even cooking.
Olive Oil: This is essential for the glaze. If you prefer a different taste, avocado oil or melted butter works well as substitutes.
Honey: Honey adds sweetness and helps to caramelize the carrots. If you’re looking for a vegan option, maple syrup or agave nectar are perfect alternatives.
Brown Sugar: It complements the honey and adds depth. If you’re out of brown sugar, you can use white sugar with a little molasses mixed in, or coconut sugar for a healthier option.
Cinnamon: It’s optional but adds warmth. If you’re not a fan, swap it for nutmeg or omit it entirely. I usually include it for that extra kick!
Pomegranate Seeds: These bring color and a sweet-tart flavor to the dish. If pomegranates aren’t in season, try using dried cranberries or chopped nuts as a garnish instead.
How Do I Grill Carrots Perfectly?
Grilling carrots might seem tricky, but it’s easier than you think. The key is to marinate them well and balance the grill’s heat.
- Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F/200°C).
- Ensure your carrots are evenly coated with the glaze to help them caramelize on the grill.
- Place the carrots directly on the grill, turning them every 2-3 minutes. This helps to get nice grill marks and an even cook.
- Keep an eye on them to prevent burning. They should cook for about 8-10 minutes or until tender.
Once they’re grilled, let them rest for a minute before sprinkling with pomegranate seeds and fresh herbs. This gives you the best flavor and texture!
How to Make Grilled Carrots With Honey Brown Sugar Glaze
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Carrots:
- 1 lb baby carrots, whole and peeled
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional for extra flavor)
For the Garnish:
- 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds
- Fresh herbs (like parsley or thyme)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes of prep time and requires at least 30 minutes to marinate the carrots. You’ll need about 10 minutes for grilling, so plan for a total of about 50 minutes for the entire process.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Carrots:
If you’re using large carrots instead of baby ones, start by cutting them into evenly sized strips so they cook evenly. Rinse the carrots under cold water and then pat them dry with a paper towel. This helps the glaze stick better!
2. Make the Glaze:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, honey, brown sugar, salt, black pepper, and the optional ground cinnamon. Mix well until everything is combined and the sugar is starting to dissolve. This will create a sweet, yummy glaze for the carrots!
3. Marinate the Carrots:
Grab a large bowl or a resealable plastic bag and add your carrots. Pour the glaze over the carrots and toss them gently to coat them evenly. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature, or if you have more time, you can put them in the fridge for up to 2 hours.
4. Preheat the Grill:
While the carrots are marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F (200°C). This way, it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to cook!
5. Grill the Carrots:
Once the grill is hot, take the marinated carrots and place them directly on the grill grates. Grill the carrots for about 8-10 minutes, turning them occasionally to ensure they cook evenly and get nice grill marks. You’ll know they’re done when they’re tender!
6. Serve:
Carefully remove the grilled carrots from the grill and transfer them to a serving platter. To add a burst of color and a tasty touch, sprinkle the pomegranate seeds and fresh herbs over the top. Enjoy your Grilled Carrots with Honey Brown Sugar Glaze!
Can I Use Regular Carrots Instead of Baby Carrots?
Absolutely! If you’re using regular carrots, just cut them into even-sized strips so they cook evenly on the grill. Aim for pieces that are about the same thickness as baby carrots for consistent cooking.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
You can easily make this dish vegan by substituting honey with maple syrup or agave nectar. Just use the same amount, and you’ll achieve a deliciously sweet glaze without any animal products!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Grilled Carrots?
Store leftover grilled carrots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them on the grill or in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, which will help preserve their texture.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Recipe?
Yes, you can definitely mix in other vegetables! Bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus work well. Just keep the size consistent for even cooking, and adjust the grilling time as needed depending on the thickness of the vegetables.
