Ah, let me tell you about one of my all-time favorite side dishes: **Glazed Marsala Carrots with Hazelnuts**! Every time I make these sweet and savory gems, I’m transported back to family gatherings where the aroma of buttery goodness filled the kitchen, and everyone eagerly awaited dinner. The combination of the Marsala wine and brown sugar creates a delectable glaze that coats the tender carrots, and tossing in those crunchy hazelnuts? Pure magic!
I remember the first time I made these for my friends. I had just moved into a cozy little apartment and wanted to impress them for dinner. I whipped up a grand feast, and when the glazed carrots made their debut, they quickly stole the show. It was incredible to see my friends’ eyes light up with every bite. That’s when I knew this recipe was a keeper! So, buckle up because I can’t wait to share this delightful recipe with you!
What’s in Glazed Marsala Carrots with Hazelnuts?
Baby Carrots: These little beauties are sweet and tender, making them perfect for glazing. If you can’t find baby carrots, regular carrots work too; just peel and cut them into bite-sized pieces.
Unsalted Butter: The key to making the glaze rich and creamy. Unsalted is my go-to because we can control the saltiness of the dish ourselves.
Marsala Wine: This fortified wine gives the carrots a depth of flavor that’s truly special. I choose a decent quality Marsala since the taste will really come through in the glaze.
Brown Sugar: Adding a lovely caramel sweetness, which perfectly balances the slight bitterness of the Marsala. Feel free to adjust the amount to your taste!
Salt: Just a pinch can really enhance all the flavors in the dish.
Black Pepper: A little kick never hurt anyone! It adds a nice contrast to the sweetness of the carrots.
Chopped Hazelnuts: Toasted or raw, these provide a wonderful crunch and nutty flavor that complements the glaze beautifully.
Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also a hint of freshness to the dish.
Is Glazed Marsala Carrots with Hazelnuts Good for You?
Absolutely! These glazed carrots are not just delicious; they’re also packed with nutrients.
Carrots: Rich in beta-carotene, these vibrant veggies are great for your eyesight and skin health. Plus, they’re low in calories but high in fiber.
Hazelnuts: Packed with healthy fats and protein, these little guys offer a good dose of heart-healthy nutrients. They are also rich in vitamins and minerals, making them a great addition to any dish.
However, it’s worth noting that with the butter and brown sugar, this dish is indulgent. So, if you’re watching your calorie intake or trying to cut down on sugar, simply adjust the amount of brown sugar or butter you use—or try swapping in a bit of olive oil for a lighter version.
What You’ll Need
– 1 pound baby carrots (or regular carrots, peeled and cut into bite-sized pieces)
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup Marsala wine
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped hazelnuts (toasted if desired)
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
This recipe will serve about 4 as a side dish.
How to Make Glazed Marsala Carrots with Hazelnuts?
1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Just let it melt and get nice and bubbly!
2. Add the baby carrots to the skillet and sauté for about 5 minutes, until they start to soften. You’ll begin to smell that buttery goodness!
3. Pour in the Marsala wine, brown sugar, salt, and black pepper. Stir it all together and bring to a simmer. Believe me, it’s about to get delicious!
4. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let those carrots cook for about 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally until they’re tender and the sauce has thickened a bit. You’re going to want to pop one in your mouth—just watch out; they’ll be hot!
5. Remove the lid, increase the heat to medium, and keep cooking for another 5 minutes. This will allow the glaze to caramelize, and trust me, that’s the sweet spot.
6. Stir in the toasted hazelnuts and let them warm through for about a minute. Your kitchen will smell divine right about now.
7. Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving. Voilà—delicious glazed carrots ready to impress!
Delicious Tips and Variations
Here are some helpful tips to elevate your glazed carrot game:
– Want an extra depth of flavor? Try adding a splash of apple cider vinegar at the end.
– If hazelnuts aren’t your thing, feel free to substitute nuts like pecans or walnuts for a different twist.
– These glazed carrots pair wonderfully with roasted or grilled meats, but they shine just as well on a vegetarian plate!
– Experiment with adding some orange zest to the glaze for a zesty summer vibe.
I really hope you give these **Glazed Marsala Carrots with Hazelnuts** a try! Trust me, your dinner guests will be begging for the recipe (and you might just end up making them every week). Don’t forget to share your experience and any variations you try—I love hearing how you make it your own! Happy cooking!
