Glazed Carrots Au Gratin
Sweet glazed carrots with a hint of lemon offer a vibrant side dish perfect for family dinners or special occasions, combining natural sweetness and citrus brightness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel and diagonally slice the carrots.
- Cook the sliced carrots in salted water until almost done but still crisp.
- Drain the carrots.
- Add melted margarine, sugar, grated lemon rind, and lemon juice to the carrots.
- Simmer the mixture, turning the carrots frequently to glaze evenly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting butter for margarine. If you prefer a lower sugar option, you can reduce the granulated sugar or use a sugar substitute. To enhance the glaze, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg. Ensure the carrots are cut uniformly for even cooking, and keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking during simmering.
Serving Suggestions
Glazed Carrots Au Gratin make a delightful side dish for roasted meats or grilled fish. They pair beautifully with My Favorite Peach Pie for a refreshing finish to your meal. For a complete dinner, serve alongside a fresh green salad or Norma'S Salad Dressingceres, California to balance the sweetness of the carrots.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover glazed carrots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking. Stir occasionally until heated through, ensuring they remain flavorful and moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Glazed Carrots Au Gratin contains roughly 273 calories, with 6g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (66% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. It also contributes 8g 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 make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the glazed carrots a day in advance. Cook and glaze them, then cool and store in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before serving to maintain their texture and flavor.
What can I substitute for the carrots?
While carrots are the star of this dish, you can use parsnips or sweet potatoes for a different taste and texture. Adjust cooking times accordingly, as they may require slightly different handling.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
To make this recipe vegan, simply replace the margarine with a plant-based alternative such as coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute. This will maintain the dish's creamy texture while keeping it vegan-friendly.
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).