Hot Honey Carrots: A Sweet and Spicy Side Dish

Introduction

Hot honey carrots are a simple yet flavorful side dish that can elevate any meal. With just a few ingredients, this dish combines the sweetness of honey with the subtle heat of cayenne pepper, creating a tantalizing taste experience.

Ingredients

* 1 pound carrots, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 2 tablespoons hot honey
* 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (more or less, to taste)
* Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the carrots, olive oil, hot honey, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
3. Spread the carrots on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
4. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips

* For a deeper flavor, use dark honey instead of regular honey.
* If you don't have hot honey, you can substitute regular honey with a pinch of cayenne pepper.
* Add a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for extra brightness.
* Serve hot honey carrots alongside grilled chicken, roasted salmon, or your favorite pasta dish.

Health Benefits

In addition to their delicious taste, hot honey carrots are also a nutritious side dish. Carrots are an excellent source of beta-carotene, an antioxidant that converts to vitamin A in the body. Vitamin A is essential for healthy vision and immune function. Cayenne pepper, on the other hand, contains capsaicin, a compound that has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Conclusion

Hot honey carrots are an easy and versatile side dish that can add a touch of sweetness and spice to any meal. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a tantalizing dish that is both delicious and nutritious. Whether you're looking for a quick and easy side or a special treat, hot honey carrots are a surefire winner.