Pineapple Carrots
A vibrant, sweet and savory dish featuring tender carrots and juicy pineapple tidbits in a cinnamon-orange glaze, perfect as a side or light dessert.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook carrots in boiling water until tender, then drain.
- Drain liquid from pineapple tidbits.
- Combine pineapple juice, orange juice, cornstarch, salt, and cinnamon in a saucepan.
- Cook the mixture until thickened.
- Add pineapple tidbits and cooked carrots to the saucepan and warm through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a bit of zest, consider adding a splash of lemon juice to the sauce. If you're out of cornstarch, you can substitute with an equal amount of arrowroot powder to thicken the sauce. If you prefer a sweeter dish, a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup can enhance the flavor. This recipe is also a great way to use up any leftover carrots you may have.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is a delightful side that pairs beautifully with Tangy Marinated Beef or grilled chicken. For a complete meal, serve alongside rice or quinoa. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color. It also complements well with crusty bread like Jiffy Hot Bread for a hearty dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or orange juice to prevent sticking. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pineapple Carrots contains roughly 151 calories, with 2g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (114% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. It also contributes 7g 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 fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pineapple, just be sure to cut it into small chunks. You'll need to add a bit more juice to achieve the desired sweetness and tanginess, as fresh pineapple can vary in flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for vegan diets?
Absolutely! This recipe is naturally vegan, as it contains no animal products. Just ensure your orange juice is 100% pure without any added ingredients. Serve it with your favorite vegan protein for a complete meal.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the carrots and sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator, then combine and heat just before serving to maintain the best texture and flavor.
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).