Pecan Carrots
A delightful side dish of glazed carrots with crunchy pecans, combining sweet and savory flavors, perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash and cut the carrots into 1/2-inch slices.
- Place the carrots in a 1 1/2-quart casserole with butter and brown sugar.
- Cover and microwave for 10 minutes.
- Mix cold water and cornstarch until smooth.
- Stir the cornstarch mixture into the carrot mixture.
- Add pecans, cover, and cook for an additional 6 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For optimal flavor, try roasting the carrots instead of microwaving for a deeper caramelization. If you're out of brown sugar, you can substitute with honey or maple syrup, adjusting the liquid in the recipe accordingly. For added texture, consider using walnuts instead of pecans. Remember to slice the carrots evenly for consistent cooking.
Serving Suggestions
These Pecan Carrots make a delightful side dish for roasted meats or a vegetarian main. They pair beautifully with Orange-Buttermilk Summer Salad for a refreshing contrast. For a complete meal, serve alongside fluffy rice or quinoa to soak up the sweet sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Alternatively, you can heat them in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to prevent sticking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pecan Carrots contains roughly 1030 calories, with 3g protein, 169g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. It is a good source of vitamin A (14% of the Daily Value), calcium (13% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (12% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 3g 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 for this recipe?
While fresh carrots yield the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen carrots if needed. Just be sure to thaw and drain any excess water before cooking to avoid a watery dish.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute the butter with a plant-based margarine or coconut oil and replace brown sugar with a vegan-friendly sweetener like agave syrup. This will maintain the sweetness and richness of the dish while keeping it vegan-friendly.
What can I serve with Pecan Carrots?
These carrots are versatile and complement a variety of dishes. They pair well with grilled chicken or fish, and can also be served alongside vegetarian recipes like stuffed bell peppers for a colorful, hearty meal.
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).