Honeyglazed Grilled Carrots with Pistachio Mint
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Fancy some grilled carrots ? Ever thought carrots could be the star of your barbecue? This recipe for honey glazed carrots will seriously change your mind.
Brief Overview
Carrots on the grill aren't just for rabbits. They are a surprisingly tasty side. This recipe is a quick way to wow your mates.
It's easy to make and takes about 35 minutes. It serves 4 people. This recipe for carrots on grill is great for a lazy Sunday afternoon.
Main Benefits
This summer carrot recipe is packed with Vitamin A. Carrots on the grill are great with chicken or fish. What makes these grilled carrots special? The sweet honey glaze and the crunchy pistachios.
Oh my gosh, they are totally addictive!
Ready to make the perfect BBQ carrot recipe ?
Ingredient Spotlight for Your Honey Glazed Grill Carrots
You will need one pound of carrots. Olive oil and some basic seasoning are also important. For the glaze, grab some honey, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar.
Don't forget the pistachios and mint for garnish. It is a vegetarian grilling recipe , but you can serve it with meat.
Grilled Carrot Side Dish : Let's Get Started
First, preheat your grill. You will need a medium heat to avoid burning. Then, toss the carrots with oil, salt, and pepper.
Trust me, this is the easy part. It also makes it an easy grill recipes !
My Carrots On The Grill Story
I remember the first time I made these. I nearly burned the honey glaze! Honestly, I was a bit distracted chatting with my neighbor.
Now I set a timer. Do not let it happen to you!
Ingredients & Equipment for the Best Grilled Carrots
Alright, let's talk carrots. Not just any carrots. We're talking about grilled carrots with a killer honey glaze. It's like a summer dream.
Honestly, who knew carrots on the grill could be this good? We are elevating these grilled carrot side dish to star status!
Main Ingredients
Time to gather our heroes.
- 1 pound ( 450g ) medium carrots, peeled and halved lengthwise. You want firm carrots. Seriously, squishy ones won’t do.
- 2 tablespoons ( 30ml ) olive oil. Extra virgin is the way to go.
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt. Don’t skimp.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Freshly ground is awesome.
Then, for that magical honey glaze:
- 2 tablespoons ( 30ml ) honey. Local honey? Even better.
- 1 tablespoon ( 15ml ) Dijon mustard. Adds a nice zing .
- 1 tablespoon ( 15ml ) apple cider vinegar. Balances the sweetness.
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika. Hello, smoky flavor!
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional). For a little kick.
Finally, the grand finale:
- 1/4 cup ( 30g ) shelled pistachios, roughly chopped. Adds crunch.
- 1/4 cup ( 15g ) fresh mint leaves, roughly chopped. Freshness overload!
Seasoning Notes
This is where the magic happens. Smoked paprika is key. It gives that BBQ carrot recipe vibe. Don't have smoked paprika? A tiny bit of chipotle powder can work in a pinch.
Honey and Dijon are best friends. Apple cider vinegar cuts the sweetness. You know? It is like a dance. If you want heat, the red pepper flakes are your friend.
Trust me.
Equipment Needed
Keep it simple, right?
- Grill. Gas or charcoal. Your call.
- Mixing bowl. For the carrots.
- Small saucepan or microwave safe bowl. For the glaze.
- Tongs. Lifesavers on the grill.
- Basting brush. To slather that glaze.
No fancy stuff needed. A grill basket will do wonders if you are worried about losing the carrots on grill . You can also parboil, because this easy grill recipe saves time.
Remember summer carrot recipe ? The honey glaze can burn, so watch the grilled carrots carefully. Now, let's grill!
Cooking Method: Grilling Carrots Like a Pro
Seriously, who knew carrots on the grill could be this good? We're not just talking about those sad, steamed carrots your nan used to make.
This honey glazed version is a total game changer. It's a fantastic grilled carrot side dish . It gives a slightly charred sweetness that'll blow your mind! Ready to ditch the boring and embrace the BBQ carrot recipe life? Let's get to it.
Prep Steps: Setting the Stage for Grilled Carrots Recipes
First things first, mise en place , darling! Get your 1 pound (450g) medium carrots , peeled and halved lengthwise.
Then give them a good scrub. Honestly, this prep is key. It will ensure you don't suddenly need to be peeling carrots when they're half on the grill.
Mix them with 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil , 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt , and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper . Boom, done! This helps keep the carrots on grill delicious!
step-by-step: From Carrot Sticks to Summer Carrot Recipe Sensation
Right, here's the lowdown on grilling these bad boys.
- Preheat your grill to medium heat. Aim for around 350° F ( 175° C) .
- Toss the carrots with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Whisk 2 tablespoons (30ml) honey , 1 tablespoon (15ml) Dijon mustard , 1 tablespoon (15ml) apple cider vinegar , 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika , and a pinch of red pepper flakes (optional) in a small bowl.
- Place carrots directly on the grill grates. Grill for 7- 10 minutes per side.
- Brush with the honey glaze during the last few minutes of cooking. Watch them, as it can burn easily
- Once tender crisp and slightly charred, remove them from the grill.
- Transfer to a serving platter. Drizzle with any remaining glaze.
- Sprinkle with chopped pistachios and fresh mint. Serve.
Visual cue: You want them slightly tender with those nice grill marks! Check the carrots on the grill with a fork.
The internal temp should reach 185° F ( 85° C) , but honestly, just go for fork tender.
Pro Tips: Level Up Your Easy Grill Recipes
Here's a little trick I learned from my mate, chef Gordon. For a deeper flavour profile, try letting your carrots sit for 15- 20 minutes after you brush them with honey .
It enhances the sweetness and caramelisation, as a plus for using this vegetarian grilling recipes !
Common mistake? Overcrowding the grill. This steams the carrots instead of grilling them. Don't do it! The honey glaze can burn super easily, so keep a close eye on those babies! A little char is good, but burnt is a no-no.
So there you have it! Grilled carrots that are actually exciting! This is a recipe you’ll want to make again and again. You know?
Recipe Notes
Serving Up Some Style: Plating & Pairings
Alright, so you've got these beautiful grilled carrots . How do you make them really shine? Honestly, presentation is key. Think vibrant colors! I love arranging them on a platter with the cut sides facing up to show off that gorgeous char.
A scattering of extra pistachios and mint? Chef's kiss!
As for sides, these honey glazed carrots are ridiculously versatile. They are a great grilled carrot side dish . They pair perfectly with grilled chicken or fish.
A quinoa salad with feta and herbs works too! A simple green salad? Absolutely! For drinks, a crisp white wine or even an iced tea hits the spot.
You know, something light and summery to complement the sweetness.
Storage Secrets: Keeping Your Carrots On The Grill Fresh
Okay, so maybe you have leftovers? No problem! Grilled carrots are surprisingly good the next day. Just pop them in an airtight container and they'll keep in the fridge for up to three days.
When you are ready to reheat, just microwave them for a minute or two. You can also pan-fry them with a little bit of olive oil.
Freezing isn't really recommended though. They get a bit mushy.
Remixing the Recipe: Adaptations & Swaps
Want to mix things up? I get it! For a vegan version of this summer carrot recipe , swap the honey for maple syrup.
Works like a charm! Also, if you are feeling spicy, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the glaze. It adds a lovely kick.
If you are looking to change up the flavor a bit, swap the mint for dill. It is such a refreshing twist.
And if you aren't a pistachio fan (gasp!), use chopped walnuts or pecans instead. Experiment and make it your own! These grilled carrots recipes are so flexible!
Nutrition Nuggets: Goodness in Every Bite
Let's talk about the good stuff. Did you know carrots on grill are packed with Vitamin A and fiber? This recipe clocks in around 180 calories per serving (estimated).
You get about 3g of protein, 8g of fat, 25g of carbs, and 5g of fiber. Not too shabby, right? And that touch of honey? Well, it's not just for flavor.
Honey also has some antioxidant properties. Plus, these are a great addition to your vegetarian grilling recipes !
Okay, go fire up that BBQ carrot recipe ! You got this! It's easier than you think, and totally worth it.
Let me know how it goes, alright? I'm betting these easy grill recipes will become a new favourite.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use baby carrots for this grilled carrots recipe, or are full size carrots better?
While you can use baby carrots, the results won't be quite as impressive. Full size carrots, halved lengthwise, offer more surface area for that delicious smoky char and hold up better on the grill. Think of it like using proper potatoes for chips versus those pre-cut ones - the real deal just tastes better!
How do I prevent my grilled carrots from burning on the grill?
Burning is the nemesis of any good grill master! The key is to keep a close eye on the carrots, especially once you've brushed them with the honey glaze, as the honey can caramelize quickly. Use medium heat, turn them frequently, and move them to a cooler part of the grill if they're browning too fast.
You can also spritz them with a little water to cool them down!
What are some good variations I can try with these honey glazed grilled carrots?
Feeling adventurous, are we? Fantastic! Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the honey glaze for a touch of heat or swap the mint for fresh dill for a herby twist. Maple syrup makes a great honey substitute too!
You could also experiment with different nuts like walnuts or pecans instead of pistachios just like adding a twist to your favourite classic tune.
How long do leftover grilled carrots last, and what's the best way to store them?
Leftover grilled carrots can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. They're best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, as reheating them can make them a bit soggy.
Think of them as a perfect addition to a cold lunch or a picnic just like those leftovers after a cracking Sunday roast!
Are grilled carrots healthy? What are the nutritional benefits?
You bet they are! Carrots are packed with vitamins, especially vitamin A, and fiber. Grilling them helps retain those nutrients while adding a smoky flavor. The honey glaze adds a bit of sugar, so keep that in mind, but overall, these grilled carrots are a healthy and delicious side dish much better than your average bag of crisps!
Can I use a grill pan indoors if I don't have an outdoor grill for this grilled carrots recipe?
Absolutely! While an outdoor grill provides the best smoky flavour, a grill pan on your stovetop is a great alternative, especially if the weather's a bit "British" outside. Heat the grill pan over medium high heat and follow the recipe instructions as usual.
You might not get quite the same char, but they'll still be delicious. You could even finish them off with a quick blast under the broiler to mimic that smoky taste a little better.
Honeyglazed Grilled Carrots With Pistachio Mint
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 180 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 8g |
| Fiber | 5g |
