Name: Maple Dijon Roasted Carrots
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 lb carrots, peeled and cut into sticks or left whole if small; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 ½ tbsp pure maple syrup; 1 tbsp Dijon mustard; 1 tsp balsamic vinegar; ½ tsp garlic powder; ½ tsp salt; ¼ tsp black pepper; ½ tsp dried thyme or 1 tsp fresh thyme; ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional); Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish, optional); Crumbled feta or goat cheese (for garnish, optional); Toasted walnuts, pecans, or almonds (for garnish, optional)

Are you looking for a vibrant side dish that combines sweetness with just the right amount of tang? Look no further than Maple Dijon Roasted Carrots! This delightful recipe transforms plain carrots into a stunning and flavorful addition to any meal. The sweet notes from pure maple syrup meld perfectly with the sharpness of Dijon mustard, creating a tasty glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. Whether you’re planning an elaborate dinner or just a cozy family gathering, these roasted carrots are sure to impress your guests and family alike.

Not only are Maple Dijon Roasted Carrots simple to prepare, but they also pack a punch of health benefits. Carrots are rich in vitamins and minerals, making them a fantastic choice for a nutritious side. Plus, the easy preparation means you can whip these up without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of textures—from the tender, caramelized carrots to the optional crunchy nuts or creamy cheese—is simply irresistible. This dish should be a staple in your recipe repertoire, perfect for adding a burst of color and flavor to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Maple Dijon Roasted Carrots

Flavor Explosion: The sweetness of maple syrup combined with the tang of Dijon mustard creates a perfect balance.
Quick and Easy: This recipe takes minimal prep time and is simple to execute, making it ideal for any cooking skill level.
Nutritious: Packed with vitamins, these carrots are a healthy choice for any meal.
Versatile: Perfect for holiday gatherings, weeknight dinners, or meal prep; they complement various main dishes.
Customizable: Add your favorite garnishes like nuts or cheese for a personalized touch!

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the recipe, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather your tools. Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that warms up, gather a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper or lightly grease it. This will prevent the carrots from sticking, ensuring they roast evenly without burning. Having a large mixing bowl on hand will help you combine the glorious glaze that coats the carrots. Lastly, don’t forget to pull out your whisk for mixing the glaze ingredients! Once your workspace is set up, the cooking process will go smoothly, allowing you to focus on the delicious outcome.

Ingredients

1 lb carrots, peeled and cut into sticks or left whole if small
2 tbsp olive oil
1 ½ tbsp pure maple syrup
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp balsamic vinegar
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
½ tsp dried thyme or 1 tsp fresh thyme
¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
Crumbled feta or goat cheese (for garnish, optional)
Toasted walnuts, pecans, or almonds (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your carrots roast perfectly, achieving that golden-brown color and tender texture. Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper or greasing it lightly will prevent the glazed carrots from sticking and make for easier cleanup.

Step 2: Prepare the Carrots

Take your fresh carrots and peel them, removing any dirt or debris. Depending on the size of your carrots, you can cut larger ones into sticks for uniform roasting. If you have smaller, tender-sized carrots, feel free to leave them whole for a beautiful presentation. The goal is to have uniform sizes for even cooking.

Step 3: Whisk Together the Glaze

In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, pure maple syrup, Dijon mustard, balsamic vinegar, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, thyme, and optional red pepper flakes. Whisk until all ingredients are well incorporated, forming a smooth glaze. The mixture should have a beautiful balance of sweet and tangy flavors, which will enhance the natural sweetness of the carrots.

Step 4: Coat the Carrots

Add the prepared carrots to the bowl with the glaze. Toss them thoroughly until every carrot is evenly coated with the delectable mixture. This step is crucial; the more evenly coated your carrots are, the better flavors they will develop during roasting.

Step 5: Arrange on the Baking Sheet

Spread your glazed carrots in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure to leave a little space between each carrot to ensure even roasting. Overcrowding the pan can lead to steaming rather than roasting, which won’t give you the desired caramelized effect.

Step 6: Roast the Carrots

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the carrots for about 20-25 minutes. Halfway through, take a moment to flip the carrots. This allows for even cooking and caramelization on all sides. Keep an eye on them; feel free to roast for an additional 5 minutes if they need a little more time to reach that tender, caramelized goodness.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once the carrots are nicely roasted, remove them from the oven and transfer them to your serving dish. If desired, top with fresh chopped parsley, crumbled feta or goat cheese, and toasted nuts for an added layer of flavor and texture. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Maple Dijon Roasted Carrots!

Variations

Protein: Add cooked chicken or salmon for a balanced meal. You can even toss in roasted chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
Vegetables: Try using other root vegetables like parsnips or sweet potatoes for a variety of flavors and textures.
Spices: Experiment with spices such as cinnamon or cumin to add a unique twist to this classic recipe.

Cooking Notes

For maximum flavor, use fresh thyme instead of dried.
If using large carrots, ensure they are cut into uniform sticks to prevent uneven cooking.
Feel free to adjust the sweetness or tanginess to your preference by modifying the amount of maple syrup or Dijon mustard.
These roasted carrots can be made ahead and warmed up before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve alongside your favorite protein—these carrots pair well with steak, chicken, or fish.
They make an excellent addition to your holiday table, brightening up your spread with color and flavor.

Tips

For extra caramelization, broil the carrots for the last 2 to 3 minutes after roasting.
Keep leftover roasted carrots in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
Add a splash of lemon juice just before serving for an extra freshness boost.
Mix and match toppings like nuts or cheese to find your perfect combination.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 130 per serving
Protein: 2g
Sodium: 200mg

FAQs

Can I use other vegetables for this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute or mix in other root vegetables like parsnips or sweet potatoes. Just be mindful of their cooking times.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan! Ensure that the cheese you use for garnishing is also dairy-free, or simply omit it.

What can I serve these roasted carrots with?

These Maple Dijon Roasted Carrots pair wonderfully with protein dishes like chicken, steak, or fish and fit perfectly into any holiday or weeknight dinner.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Maple Dijon Roasted Carrots are a delightful, easy-to-make side dish bursting with flavor. Their sweet and tangy profile makes them an appealing addition to various meals, from casual dinners to festive feasts. With the ability to customize and adapt this recipe, you’ll be able to develop a personal touch every time you make it. Don’t hesitate to share your experiences and variations in the comments below, and let us know how these roasted carrots turned out for you! Get ready to enjoy an explosion of flavors with every bite—happy cooking!