One of my favorite veggies since I was a kid has been carrots. I love the pop of color, the sweetness and how versatile they are. This recipe for Apricot Garlic Glazed Carrots marries both savory and sweet in a delicious side dish.
Carrots are cooked until perfection in an apricot glaze with minced garlic and herbs. It's the perfect easy side dish for dinner, holidays and beyond.
If you like this dish, you may also like some of my other side dishes such as my Honey Sage Roasted Squash, my Classic Creamed Pearl Onions, or my Easy Classic Creamed Spinach.
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What are Baby Carrots?
You might be surprised to hear it but baby carrots are just large carrots shaved down to a smaller size. They are typically made from a different variety of carrots that are sweeter and more uniform in width, but their small size is all manufactured. The good news, nutritionally these are the same as any other carrot, so if you are happier snacking on these, go for it!
If you don't have baby carrots for this recipe, you can use full sized carrots as well. To use, peel carrots then slice into 2 inch pieces for uniform cooking.
Other carrot varieties may be used, however they may not be as sweet naturally. You may need to adjust the seasonings slightly but overall the dish will remain the same.
How to Cook Carrots
There are two main methods to cooking carrots: boiling or roasting. Boiling will give you a soft texture and keep the carrots hydrated. Roasting will deppen the sweetness and give a crispy umami edge to the carrot. Both methods are fairly easy and take about the same time.
To boil, place carrots in a pot of boiling water and cook for 20 minutes before draining. To roast, heat oven to 435 degrees, spread carrots on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Roast for 25- 30 minutes or until cooked through.
Do Carrots Improve Vision?
The short answer: not really. The long answer: yes, but this myth began as World War 2 propaganda by the British. While carrots have essential nutrients like Beta Carotene which is proven to help eyesight, eating a lot of carrots won't magically improve your vision. They are still a healthy option, so eating them is still a good idea.
I enjoy making carrots as a side dish or even snacking on them raw with a bit of peanut butter. There is a limit to how many carrots you should consume, but the average person is fine snacking on carrots regularly.
Ingredients Needed for Apricot Garlic Glazed Carrots
- 2 Pounds Baby Carrots
- 2 Tsp Salt
- 3 Tbsp Butter
- 2 Cloves Garlic Minced
- ⅓ Cup Apricot Preserves
- ¼ Tsp Nutmeg
- ¼ Tsp Ground Cinnamon
- 1 Tsp Orange Rind Grated
- 2 Tbsp Orange Juice
Equipment Needed
- Saucepan
- Wooden Spoon
- Chef's Knife
- Cutting Board
Storage Tips
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. To reheat either warm in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Apricot Glazed Carrots
Equipment
Ingredients
- 2 Pounds Carrots baby carrots, or if using large carrots sliced
- 2 Tsp Salt
- 3 Tbsp Butter
- 2 Cloves Garlic Minced
- ⅓ Cup Apricot Preserves
- ¼ Tsp Nutmeg
- ¼ Tsp Ground Cinnamon
- 1 Tsp Orange Rind Grated
- 2 Tbsp Orange Juice
Instructions
- Bring a pot of water to a boil and add salt to water until it dissolves. Add carrot and cook for 15-20 minutes or until tender. Drain and set aside.
- Melt butter in a saucepan and add garlic. Stir in apricot preserves, seasonings and orange rind and juice. Bring to a simmer, add carrot and toss to coat. Serve warm and enjoy!
Nutrition
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About Michelle
Hello! I'm Michelle Boulé. I'm a photography nerd, cat mom and all around foodie. Join me in making some of my favorite comfort foods!
Beth says
These look heavenly! I can’t wait to make these carrots! My family is going to love them!
Patty at Spoonabilities says
This recipe sounds delicious! I've added it to my holiday menu recipes! Thank you for sharing.
Biana says
These carrots sound great, I like all the spices that are using in them. Will be making them soon.
Emily says
These garlic glazed carrots were SO good! Definitely making again.
Denay says
These glazed carrots have my mouth watering in anticipation. I have the ingredients on hand to make this delicious recipe. Thanks so much for sharing this yummy idea!