Orange Glazed Carrots And Grapes
Sweet and tangy orange glazed carrots and grapes combine tender vegetables with juicy fruit, creating a vibrant side perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the frozen baby carrots according to package directions, omitting salt; set aside.
- In a saucepan, combine the brown sugar, cornstarch, ground ginger, and salt.
- Gradually add the unsweetened orange juice, stirring with a wire whisk until blended.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat; cook for one minute, stirring constantly.
- Add the cooked carrots and halved red grapes; cook for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg along with the ground ginger. If you prefer fresh carrots, you can substitute 1 pound of peeled and sliced carrots for the frozen ones. To thicken the glaze, increase cornstarch by a teaspoon, but mix it with a bit of cold water first. This dish pairs beautifully with Thom'S Tossed Salad for a refreshing contrast.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these orange glazed carrots and grapes as a vibrant side dish to complement roasted chicken or fish. They also pair well with grains like quinoa or couscous. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside a light salad or a dish like Old Fashioned Pumpkin Marmalade for a delightful contrast of flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of orange juice if needed to restore moisture. You can also microwave them in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Orange Glazed Carrots And Grapes contains roughly 216 calories, with 5g protein, 48g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (109% of the Daily Value), iron (57% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1868mg per serving (81% 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 fresh carrots instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh carrots! Just peel and slice about 1 pound of carrots. Cook them in boiling water for 5-7 minutes until tender, then proceed with the recipe as directed.
Is there a way to make this dish sweeter?
Absolutely! If you prefer a sweeter glaze, you can increase the brown sugar by an additional tablespoon or two. Alternatively, a drizzle of honey or maple syrup can enhance the sweetness without overpowering the dish.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
This recipe is already vegan-friendly since it uses plant-based ingredients. Just ensure your brown sugar is vegan, as some brands may process it with bone char. Otherwise, enjoy this delicious dish as is!
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).