Are you looking for a low-calorie side dish that is quick and easy to prepare? Look no further than 1 cup of cooked glazed carrots (from frozen), which contains just 204 calories. Whether you are meal prepping for the week or need a healthy side dish for your Thanksgiving meal, glazed carrots are a delicious and nutritious choice.
Carrots are a nutrient-rich vegetable, packed with vitamins and minerals like vitamin A, potassium, and fiber. In one cup of cooked glazed carrots, you'll get 461% of your daily vitamin A needs, making it a great option for maintaining healthy eyesight and immune function. Plus, the high fiber content in carrots can help keep you feeling full and satisfied, making it easier to stick to your healthy eating goals.
In this article, we'll explore some easy recipes and tips for preparing glazed carrots, as well as the nutritional benefits of adding this vegetable to your diet.
Low-Calorie Side Dish
When looking for healthy side dishes to add to your meals, it's important to choose options that are low in calories but still packed with flavor and nutrients. Cooked glazed carrots fit the bill perfectly, with just 204 calories per serving. Plus, the sweetness of the glaze can satisfy your dessert cravings without derailing your healthy eating goals.
Frozen Vegetables for Quick Meal Prep
One of the biggest hurdles to healthy eating can be finding the time to prep and cook fresh vegetables. Frozen vegetables are a great alternative, as they are already prepped and often more affordable than fresh options. Frozen glazed carrots can be cooked quickly in the microwave or on the stove, making them a convenient option for weeknight meals.
Easy Glazed Carrot Recipe
To make glazed carrots from frozen, simply cook the carrots according to package instructions and then add a glaze made from butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon. The result is a deliciously sweet and savory side dish that is perfect for any meal. For a healthier twist, try using coconut oil and maple syrup instead of butter and brown sugar.
Carrot Nutrition Facts
Carrots are a nutrient-dense vegetable that are low in calories but high in vitamins and minerals. One cup of cooked glazed carrots (from frozen) contains:
- 204 calories
- 47g carbohydrates
- 3g protein
- 0.6g fat
- 5g fiber
- 23g sugar
- 23,691 IU vitamin A (471% DV)
- 394mg potassium (11% DV)
- 2.5mg vitamin C (4% DV)
Health Benefits of Carrots
Carrots are a superfood that offer a wide range of health benefits. Some of the top benefits of eating carrots include:
- Improving eyesight and protecting against age-related vision loss
- Boosting immune function
- Reducing the risk of cancer
- Lowering cholesterol levels
- Improving digestion
High Fiber Side Dish
One of the biggest benefits of incorporating glazed carrots into your diet is their high fiber content. Fiber is essential for maintaining digestive health, promoting feelings of fullness, and regulating blood sugar levels. One cup of cooked glazed carrots contains 5g of fiber, making it a high-fiber side dish that is both delicious and nutritious.
Glazed Carrots for Thanksgiving
If you're looking for a healthy side dish to serve at your Thanksgiving meal, glazed carrots are a great option. This dish is easy to make and can be served alongside your favorite holiday main course. Plus, the natural sweetness of the carrots is sure to please even the pickiest eaters at your table.
Vitamin A-Rich Carrots
One of the top benefits of eating glazed carrots is that they are incredibly rich in vitamin A. This essential vitamin is important for maintaining healthy vision, promoting immune function, and supporting skin health. One cup of cooked glazed carrots contains a whopping 23,691 IU of vitamin A, which is 471% of your daily recommended intake.
Fast and Easy Vegetable Side
If you're looking for a fast and easy vegetable side that is both healthy and delicious, glazed carrots are the perfect choice. This dish takes just a few minutes to prepare and can be cooked quickly in the microwave or on the stove. Plus, the sweet glaze adds a dash of flavor that is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Glazed Carrots for a Sweet Treat
While glazed carrots are typically served as a side dish, they can also be a delicious sweet treat. The natural sweetness of the carrots pairs perfectly with the sweet glaze, making it a healthier alternative to traditional desserts. For an extra special treat, top your glazed carrots with a dollop of whipped cream or coconut whipped cream.
Eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, like carrots, can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases and promote overall health.
5 Frequently Asked Questions About Cooked Glazed Carrots
What are glazed carrots?
Glazed carrots are carrots that have been cooked in a sweet mixture of butter and sugar until they are tender and caramelized. They make a great side dish for many meals and are especially good during the holidays.
How many calories are in one cup of cooked glazed carrots?
One cup of cooked glazed carrots (from frozen) contains approximately 204 calories. This may vary depending on the recipe and the specific ingredients used.
Are glazed carrots healthy?
While glazed carrots are delicious, they are not considered the healthiest vegetable dish. This is because the glaze often contains a lot of sugar and butter, which can add calories and fat. However, carrots themselves are packed with lots of vitamins and minerals, so they are still a healthy choice overall.
How do you make glazed carrots?
To make glazed carrots, start by cooking some sliced carrots in a pot of boiling water until they are tender. Drain the water and then mix in some butter, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Cook the carrots and the glaze mixture together over medium heat until the mixture becomes thick and caramelized. Garnish with fresh herbs or spices if desired.
What are some good ways to serve glazed carrots?
Glazed carrots make a great side dish for roasted meats, such as ham or turkey. They can also be served alongside other vegetables, such as green beans or Brussels sprouts. For a more festive dish, add some dried cranberries or chopped nuts to the glaze mixture before cooking.