These balsamic roasted carrots are crispy and seriously addictive — a perfect side for Thanksgiving or any day
With just three days until Thanksgiving, these balsamic roasted carrots are an easy addition to your holiday table — or a tasty side for any meal. They turn out crisp on the edges, garlicky, and lightly tangy from the balsamic. Prep takes roughly 10 minutes, so they’re quick to make even on a busy day. Serving whole carrots gives a simple, attractive presentation.
Start by washing the carrots well — there’s no need to peel them. Trim the tops and, if any carrots are very thick, halve or quarter them lengthwise so pieces are similar in thickness and cook evenly. Arrange the carrots in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet for easy cleanup. Toss with a high-heat cooking oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper, then roast at 375°F for about 40–50 minutes, depending on thickness, until tender with slightly crisped edges.
Although I’m not always a fan of some traditional Thanksgiving dishes like stuffing or cranberry sauce, I love a good holiday spread. This year our menu includes:
– Turkey
– Gravy and dressing
– These balsamic roasted carrots
– Homemade mac ’n’ cheese
– Fresh green beans
– A lighter sweet potato casserole adapted from a favorite recipe
– Mashed potatoes
– Healthy apple crisp
I’m looking forward to eating a bit of everything and to having family in town. My aunt, uncle, and cousins are driving in from Georgia, and my grandparents are flying in from Arkansas. We only gather like this once or twice a year, so it’s always special.
From last year’s annual Thanksgiving kickball game
Plus, Gilmore Girls returns on Friday — another thing to look forward to. I have two more days of classes and can’t wait to drive home Tuesday afternoon: sleep in my own bed, snuggle my dog, see family, and enjoy all the food. If you try these carrots, I’d love to hear about it or see a photo.
If you try these balsamic roasted carrots, feel free to leave a comment or tag me on Instagram @livbane. Hope you enjoy!
Balsamic Roasted Carrots
10
35
45
Ingredients
- 1 pound whole carrots
- 1 tablespoon cooking oil safe for high heat (avocado or grapeseed oil recommended)
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions
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Wash carrots thoroughly and cut off the tops — no need to peel. Dry them well. Halve or quarter thicker carrots so pieces are close to the same thickness for even cooking.
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Arrange carrots in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Drizzle with cooking oil and balsamic vinegar, then sprinkle with minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
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Roast at 375°F for 40–50 minutes, depending on thickness, until carrots are tender and edges begin to crisp. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired and serve immediately.
Questions for you:
Will you be watching Gilmore Girls?
Yes!
What’s on your Thanksgiving menu this year? What are your favorite Thanksgiving foods?
We always make mac and cheese — one of my favorites — and I especially enjoy roasted vegetables.
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