Roasted Carrots with Honey Mustard Drizzle has been a go-to comfort dish in my kitchen since the beginning of my cooking journey. My story starts in my grandmother’s home, where we’d gather around her little oven and roast whatever was in season especially carrots. She taught me that with just a little oil, a hot oven, and a flavorful drizzle, even the humblest vegetable could shine.
After years of working in diners and kitchens across different countries, this dish became a favorite in every place I cooked. It’s seasonal, stunning, and satisfying. It doesn’t ask much just fresh carrots, a few pantry staples, and a love for the sweet-and-tangy magic that happens when honey meets mustard.
It’s especially perfect in fall, when root vegetables are at their peak. The drizzle brings the dish together, making it ideal for holiday spreads or easy weeknight dinners.
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Roasted Carrots with Honey Mustard Drizzle
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Tender, caramelized roasted carrots finished with a sweet and tangy honey mustard drizzle – a cozy, crowd-pleasing side dish perfect for fall and holidays.
Ingredients
- 1½ pounds carrots (peeled, trimmed, halved if large)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped thyme or rosemary (optional)
- For the drizzle:
- 1½ tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Toss carrots with olive oil, salt, pepper, and herbs if using. Spread in a single layer on the prepared sheet.
- Roast for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway, until tender and caramelized on the edges.
- Meanwhile, whisk together Dijon mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, and olive oil in a small bowl. Adjust sweetness or tanginess to taste.
- Transfer warm roasted carrots to a serving platter and drizzle with the honey mustard sauce. Garnish with extra herbs if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
Use fresh, evenly sized carrots for best caramelization. Make extra drizzle to use on sandwiches, proteins, or grain bowls. For a vegan option, swap honey for maple syrup or agave.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Oven Roasted
- Cuisine: Comfort Food
What You’ll Need: Ingredients for Roasted Carrots with Honey Mustard Drizzle
This simple ingredient list celebrates clean, wholesome flavors. You’ll find everything in your pantry or local grocery store.
- 1½ pounds carrots (peeled, trimmed, halved if large)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped thyme or rosemary (optional)
For the drizzle:
- 1½ tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For another honey-mustard inspired dinner idea, try this Greek Honey Mustard Roast Chicken and Potatoes recipebit’s a perfect pairing with these carrots.
How to Make Roasted Carrots with Honey Mustard Drizzle (Step by Step)
1. Roast the Carrots
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Toss peeled carrots with olive oil, salt, pepper, and herbs.
- Arrange them in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Roast for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway. Carrots should be tender and caramelized on the edges.
2. Make the Drizzle
- In a small bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, and olive oil.
- Adjust the sweetness or tanginess to your liking.
3. Combine & Serve
- Transfer warm roasted carrots to a platter and drizzle with the honey mustard sauce.
- Garnish with more fresh herbs if desired.
This method works wonderfully with other roasted dishes too, like the Roasted Chickpea and Veggie Bowl for a wholesome lunch or dinner.
Helpful Tips to Get It Just Right
- Preheat fully so the carrots start roasting (not steaming) right away.
- Use fresh carrots over baby carrots if possible they caramelize better and have more flavor.
- Uniform size helps them roast evenly, especially if you’re working with large carrots.
- Double the drizzle! It keeps in the fridge and goes great on sandwiches or grilled proteins.
Want more veggie-forward sides? This Vegetarian Feta Potato Salad also pairs beautifully with roast mains and holiday dishes.
Recipe Variations You’ll Love
Make it Vegan
Simply replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar. The flavor is still wonderfully rich.
Try Different Carrots
Rainbow carrots add color and look stunning on the table, especially for special occasions.
Add Crunch
Sprinkle chopped toasted almonds or sunflower seeds on top for texture.
Add Spice
Mix in a pinch of cumin or smoked paprika into the drizzle for warmth.
These adaptations work well with other fall favorites like the Healthy Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars or Apple Pumpkin Streusel Muffins if you’re planning a seasonal meal.
How to Store and Reheat
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10–12 minutes to keep that crisp edge.
- Avoid freezing, as roasted carrots tend to lose their texture.
- Chop cold leftovers into salads perfect for tossing with greens or a grain bowl.
Speaking of fresh salads, this Ribbon Carrot Salad is another wonderful way to enjoy carrots raw and vibrant.
FAQs
Can I use baby carrots?
Yes, but they may roast unevenly and won’t caramelize as nicely as whole carrots. Adjust roasting time to around 15–18 minutes.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely. Just ensure your mustard and vinegar are labeled gluten-free if you’re cooking for someone with celiac disease.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes! Roast the carrots up to 2 days in advance. Store the drizzle separately and combine before serving.
Is there a mustard substitute?
Use whole grain mustard for texture or yellow mustard for a milder flavor.
Final Thoughts
Roasted Carrots with Honey Mustard Drizzle proves that simple ingredients can create something truly special. Whether you’re hosting a fall dinner or just need a new go-to side dish, this recipe checks every box: it’s vibrant, easy, flavorful, and loved by both kids and adults.
You don’t need complicated methods or expensive ingredients just honest flavors and a little care in the kitchen. It’s the kind of dish that looks like it came from a bistro, but fits right into your everyday routine.
For more cozy, seasonal inspiration, don’t miss our Asparagus Soup Recipe or the fall-ready Mexican Salad with Cilantro Lime Dressing.