Carrots And Apples
Sweet and savory carrots and apples combine in this easy dish, featuring tender carrots glazed with brown sugar and syrup, complemented by crisp apple wedges and warm spices. Perfect as a comforting side or light main, it offers a delightful balance of flavors suitable for family dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
- 4 cups baby carrots, trimmed ⓘ
- 2 tablespoons plus 2 teaspoons reduced-calorie tub margarine ⓘ
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced and separated into rings ⓘ
- 1 tablespoon light brown sugar, firmly packed ⓘ
- 2 tablespoons reduced-calorie syrup ⓘ
- 2 small Granny Smith apples, cored and cut into 16 wedges ⓘ
- 1/8 teaspoon cinnamon ⓘ
- pinch of nutmeg ⓘ
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan of boiling water, cook carrots for 8 to 10 minutes, until just tender; drain.
- In a large nonstick skillet, melt margarine.
- Add onion; cook, stirring frequently, for 8 to 10 minutes, until golden.
- Add cooked carrots, brown sugar, and syrup; stir to coat.
- Cover and simmer for 5 to 10 minutes, until glazed.
- Stir in apple wedges, cinnamon, and nutmeg into the skillet.
- Cover and cook for 5 minutes longer, until apples and carrots are tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using a mix of different apple varieties, such as Honeycrisp or Fuji, which can enhance the sweetness. If you're looking for a vegan option, substitute the reduced-calorie margarine with coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative. Make sure to cut the carrots into uniform sizes for even cooking. A splash of lemon juice can brighten the dish if desired.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or pork, making it a great side for a family dinner. For a complete meal, serve it alongside a fresh salad, like a Three Bean Salad Bowl, for a refreshing contrast. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, for an extra touch of flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the carrots and apples in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking. Stir occasionally until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the vegetables mushy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Carrots And Apples contains roughly 196 calories, with 1g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (92% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen carrots instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen baby carrots, but be aware that they may require less cooking time. Simply sauté them until heated through and tender, and adjust the cooking time accordingly to avoid overcooking.
What can I substitute for the light brown sugar?
You can use maple syrup or honey as a substitute for light brown sugar, though the flavor profile will change slightly. If you prefer a sugar-free option, consider using a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol, adjusting the quantity to taste.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this dish is great for meal prep! Prepare it in advance and store portions in individual containers. It reheats well and maintains its flavor, making it a convenient option for busy weekdays.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).