Carrots Cosmopolitan
Sweet and savory glazed carrots with pineapple juice and toasted almonds, perfect as a side dish for family dinners or special occasions, offering a delightful combination of flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Scrape the carrots and cut into diagonal slices, about 1/4 to 1/2-inch thick.
- Place the sliced carrots in an ungreased baking dish.
- Stir together melted butter, pineapple or orange juice, brown sugar, dry mustard, and salt.
- Pour the sauce over the carrots.
- Bake, covered, at 375°F for 30 to 40 minutes until the carrots are tender.
- Alternatively, microwave the carrots with a small amount of water until almost done, then add the sauce and cook for 2 to 3 more minutes.
- Garnish with toasted almonds or pecans before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth of flavor, consider using freshly squeezed orange juice instead of canned. If you prefer a sweeter dish, increase the brown sugar to 3 tablespoons. For a twist, you can substitute the carrots with parsnips or sweet potatoes. Additionally, if you want a bit of spice, a pinch of cayenne pepper can complement the sweetness beautifully. This recipe is perfect for those looking for vegetarian recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Carrots Cosmopolitan alongside roasted chicken or grilled fish for a delightful contrast. It pairs beautifully with Grandma Copple's Caramel Fudge for a sweet finish to your meal. You can also add a side of quinoa or rice for a complete vegetarian meal. Garnishing with toasted almonds or pecans adds a lovely crunch and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave the carrots for a couple of minutes, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture, or warm them in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. This dish can also be enjoyed cold as a salad addition.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Carrots Cosmopolitan contains roughly 573 calories, with 5g protein, 127g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (57% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 558mg per serving (24% of the Daily Value).
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 ones?
Yes, you can use frozen carrots; however, they may require a slightly shorter cooking time. If they are pre-cooked, simply add the sauce and heat until everything is warmed through. Ensure to adjust the baking time to prevent them from becoming too soft.
Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
Absolutely! To add a kick to your Carrots Cosmopolitan, consider mixing in a pinch of cayenne pepper or some red pepper flakes with the sauce. This will create a delightful contrast to the sweet flavors of the brown sugar and juice.
What can I substitute for butter in this recipe?
For a dairy-free option, you can replace the butter with olive oil or coconut oil. Both will provide a similar richness and flavor. If you want a lighter alternative, try using unsweetened applesauce in place of butter for a healthier twist.
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).