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Carrots and Rutabagas with Lemon and Honey

Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 17 Jan 2026

Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines

This vibrant side dish of honey and lemon glazed carrots and swede brings a refreshing zest to any dinner table. By julienning the root vegetables into delicate matchsticks, you create a refined texture that absorbs the bright, citrusy glaze beautifully. The natural sweetness of the carrots and swede is balanced by the tang of fresh lemon and the floral notes of honey, making this a sophisticated alternative to traditional mashed roots.

Perfect for a Sunday roast or as a colourful addition to a festive spread, this vegetarian-friendly recipe is both light and comforting. The addition of fresh chives provides a mild onion-like finish and a pop of green colour. It is an easy way to elevate humble supermarket staples into a nutritious, flavourful accompaniment that pairs excellently with roasted meats or nut roasts.

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Ingredients for Carrots and Rutabagas with Lemon and Honey

  • 575g rutabagas, peeled, cut into matchstick-size strips

  • 450g carrots, peeled, cut into matchstick-size strips

  • 60ml (1/2 stick) butter

  • 60ml fresh lemon juice

  • 45ml honey

  • 1 teaspoon grated lemon peel

  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh chives

How to make Carrots and Rutabagas with Lemon and Honey

Cook rutabagas in large pot of boiling salted water 2 minutes. Add carrots and cook until vegetables are tender, about 6 minutes. Drain.

Melt butter in large pot over medium-high heat. Add lemon juice, honey, and peel. Bring to boil. Add vegetables; cook until glazed, stirring occasionally, about 6 minutes. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Remove from heat. Mix in fresh chives.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 17 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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