Looking for a vibrant and delicious side dish that's both vegetarian and gluten-free? Look no further than this Orange Glazed Carrots recipe! Ready in just 20 minutes, it's the perfect addition to any meal. Each serving comes in at a modest 131 calories, making it a guilt-free indulgence.
The star of this dish is, of course, the carrots. We use a full pound of baby carrots for that perfect balance of sweetness and earthiness. But what really transforms these carrots from good to great is the orange glaze. A blend of orange juice, brown sugar, butter, and a pinch of salt creates a syrupy sauce that coats each carrot, infusing it with a citrusy zest that's simply irresistible.
The preparation is straightforward, requiring just a few simple steps. Start by boiling the carrots until tender, then drain them and get ready for the magic. The orange juice mixture is heated with the carrots, melding into a glossy glaze as the sugar and butter melt. It's a process that's not only easy but also smells absolutely divine.
With a caloric breakdown that leans heavily towards carbs, this dish offers a satisfying blend of fats and sugars from the butter and brown sugar, respectively. But it's the protein content that's truly minimal, making this a side dish that complements just about any main course, especially those rich in protein.
Whether you're looking to add a burst of color to your plate or seeking a side dish that's as easy to make as it is to enjoy, these Orange Glazed Carrots won't disappoint. They're the epitome of simple yet sophisticated cooking, a testament to the idea that sometimes, the best dishes are the ones that require a little bit of love and a lot of orange juice.