Carrots With Butter
Tender baby carrots cooked in sweetened water, then glazed with butter and herbs, creating a flavorful side perfect for everyday meals or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring water, sugar, and salt to a boil in a saucepan.
- Add the baby carrots to the boiling mixture.
- Cover the saucepan and boil slowly until the carrots start to get tender.
- Uncover the pan and cook longer until the liquid has evaporated.
- Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
- Add sweet butter and parsley to the carrots.
- Stir well and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of sweet butter. If baby carrots are unavailable, cut regular carrots into similar-sized pieces. To enhance the taste, adding a pinch of thyme or dill can elevate the dish. Ensure not to overcook the carrots to maintain their vibrant color and crunch. You can also substitute water with vegetable broth for added depth.
Serving Suggestions
These buttery carrots make a delightful side dish, complementing roasted meats or vegetarian recipes like the Low-Fat E.Z. Mix Up Salad. For a more colorful presentation, consider garnishing with fresh parsley or chives. They also pair well with grains like quinoa or rice, balancing out a hearty meal.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover carrots can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a saucepan over low heat with a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. Microwaving is also an option; cover them and heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Carrots With Butter contains roughly 129 calories, with 4g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (54% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (24% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1782mg per serving (77% 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?
Yes, you can use frozen carrots, but they may require a bit longer to cook. It's best to thaw them first and adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they don't become mushy.
What can I serve with these carrots?
These carrots pair beautifully with roasted chicken or grilled fish. For a vegetarian meal, they complement dishes like the World'S Best Macaroni And Cheese Casserole perfectly, creating a balanced plate with vibrant flavors.
How do I know when the carrots are done cooking?
The carrots are done when they are tender but still firm enough to hold their shape. You can test them by piercing with a fork; they should be easily pierced but not mushy. The cooking time can vary based on the size of the carrots.
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).