Carrots may be your go-to zip baggie snack, but there’s something to be said for graduating this in-season veggie to your dinner table. As we compile our Thanksgiving wish lists, look no further for this year’s best carrot sides.
For a killer side that’s as worthy as your prize-winning stuffing, there’s no need to completely change the face of this root veggie. Instead, simplicity is key.
Sunny Anderson prepares her Honey Glazed Carrots with just butter, honey and lemon, while Ina Garten’s Sauteed Carrots and Food Network Magazine’s Roasted Carrots are even simpler.
Claire Robinson’s Baby Carrots With Sweet Ginger Butter look to crystallized ginger for a sweet and fresh flavor. For a rustic side that’s one of her favorite comfort foods, Alex Guarnaschelli makes her Brown Sugared Carrots with molasses, rosemary and dark brown sugar. For the brightest recipe of all, go for Food Network Magazine’s Coriander-Glazed Carrots (pictured above), which come laced with orange and lime juices, cilantro and brown sugar too.
More carrot recipes from family and friends
Something happened a few weeks ago while I was at the farmers’ market. As I scanned the stands, looking over the slim produce pickings here in the Northeast, I decided to get to the root of the problem — root vegetables, that is. It’s February, and we’re knee-deep in parsnips, turnips and potatoes. How I long for the first green cylinders of zucchini and sweet pods of green peas. Soon enough, asparagus.
Since I can’t get in a time machine and fast forward to spring, I decided it was time to get creative and work with what I had before me. Into my bag went a big bundle of carrots. Then they sat in the bin for a week. A whole week — thank heavens root vegetables are resilient and forgiving. I originally picked them up since they’re one of my daughters’ favorite vegetables. The problem is I tend to fall back on standard serving ideas, like simply roasting them or cutting into sticks to pair with dip. Not bad, but certainly a one-way ticket to boredom if done too frequently.
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Add a pop of color to your Thanksgiving spread with an easy carrot side. Whether you steam, boil or roast these bright root vegetables, they’re a perfect last-minute addition — done in 20 minutes or less.
For Middle Eastern flair, make Food Network Magazine’s Roasted Carrots With Za’atar (pictured above). Start by roasting the carrots in salt and pepper, then toss them with za’atar (a spice blend available at Middle Eastern markets), parsley and a splash of lemon.
Sunny’s Honey Glazed Carrots let the vegetable’s natural flavor shine through. Cook until a light honey glaze coats the carrots. We guarantee you won’t be able to eat just one.
More carrot recipes from family and friends »
