Maple roasted carrots with cranberries

If you’re looking for a delicious and simple side dish that brings warmth and joy to any table, look no further than maple roasted carrots with cranberries. This lovely recipe is a personal favorite of mine, not just for its vibrant colors but also for the delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors. Whether you’re planning a holiday feast or just want to elevate your weeknight dinner, these roasted carrots will surely impress your family and friends.

The combination of tender, caramelized carrots with tart cranberries and a drizzle of maple syrup makes this dish special. Plus, it’s naturally vegan and gluten-free, so it caters to various dietary preferences. Trust me; once you try these maple roasted carrots with cranberries, they’ll become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a beautiful side dish ready in no time.
• Perfect for gatherings: This dish adds a festive touch to Thanksgiving or Christmas dinners without much fuss.
• Healthful ingredients: Packed with nutritious veggies and bursting with flavor, this recipe is as wholesome as it is delicious.
• Make-ahead friendly: You can prepare everything in advance and roast them just before serving, making your meal prep smoother.
• Versatile flavors: The sweetness of the maple syrup pairs beautifully with the tartness of the cranberries, making every bite delightful.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating these maple roasted carrots with cranberries requires simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Let’s take a look at what you need:

For the Carrots

• 500 g / 1.1 lb / 17 oz medium young carrots, scrubbed clean
• 60 ml / ¼ cup maple syrup, divided
• 3 tsp harissa paste, adjust to taste (strength varies!)
• 30 ml / 2 tbsp olive oil
• ½ tsp salt, adjust to taste
• black pepper, to serve

For the Cranberry Mix

• 100 g / 3.5 oz fresh cranberries
• zest of ½ large orange

For Garnish

• a few springs of thyme or lemon thyme
• 1 garlic clove, finely grated
• 20 g / ¼ cup almond flakes

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add some spice: If you love heat, increase the harissa paste or add a pinch of chili flakes for an extra kick.
• Change up the nuts: Swap almond flakes for chopped walnuts or pecans for a different texture and flavor.
• Mix in other veggies: Feel free to add parsnips or sweet potatoes for variety—just adjust the cooking time as needed.
• Sweeten it up: For more sweetness, toss in some diced apples or pears alongside the carrots.

How to Make Maple Roasted Carrots with Cranberries

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Set your oven to 170° C / 340° F fan forced (or 190° C / 375° F no fan). Lining one large baking tray (or two smaller ones) with baking paper will help prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

Step 2: Prepare the Carrots

Trim off the green tops from your carrots. If you’re feeling creative, you can save them for pesto or toss them into soups later! Cut each carrot in half lengthwise; this will help them roast evenly and absorb all those yummy flavors.

Step 3: Coat the Cranberries

In a small bowl, coat those fresh cranberries in about 1 tablespoon of maple syrup. Mixing in the orange zest adds a lovely citrus note that complements both the carrots and cranberries beautifully.

Step 4: Create Your Marinade

In another bowl, combine olive oil, 3 tablespoons of maple syrup, harissa paste, thyme leaves (about 1 tablespoon), grated garlic, salt, and a good pinch of black pepper. This flavorful mixture is what gives our carrots that irresistible glaze!

Step 5: Coat the Carrots

Take those halved carrots and coat them well in your delicious marinade mixture. Arrange them on your lined baking tray. If there’s space on your tray, place cranberries at one end; otherwise, use separate trays.

Step 6: Roast Away!

Pop the tray into your preheated oven and roast for about 20-25 minutes until the carrots are tender and slightly caramelized while ensuring those cranberries turn soft and jammy. Remember to check on them halfway through; if they seem dry or need more flavor from leftover marinade, give them another brush!

Step 7: Toast Those Almonds

In a hot pan without oil, lightly toast almond flakes until they are golden brown and fragrant. This step adds an extra crunch that will elevate your dish!

Step 8: Serve It Up!

Once everything is roasted perfectly, transfer those vibrant carrots and sweet-tart cranberries onto a large serving platter. Finish by sprinkling toasted almonds on top along with fresh thyme or some finely chopped carrot tops if you dare—just don’t go overboard as they can be quite bitter!

And there you have it! A stunning dish of maple roasted carrots with cranberries that’s sure to delight everyone at your table!

Pro Tips for Making Maple Roasted Carrots with Cranberries

These maple roasted carrots with cranberries are not only delicious but also a breeze to prepare! Here are some tips to elevate your dish and ensure it turns out perfectly every time.

• Choose fresh ingredients: Fresh, young carrots and plump cranberries will enhance the flavor and texture of your dish. Fresh produce ensures that you get the best taste and nutritional value.
• Adjust harissa to your liking: The strength of harissa can vary greatly, so start with less and taste as you go. This way, you can customize the spice level to suit your palate and those of your guests.
• Don’t overcrowd the baking tray: Spacing out the carrots and cranberries allows them to roast evenly and develop that lovely caramelization. This results in tender vegetables with a delightful contrast in texture.
• Keep an eye on roasting times: Ovens can vary, so check the carrots and cranberries a few minutes before the suggested cooking time. This will help prevent overcooking or burning, ensuring they come out perfectly tender.
• Experiment with herbs: While thyme is a great choice, feel free to try other herbs like rosemary or sage for a different flavor profile. Fresh herbs can brighten up the dish and add an aromatic touch.

How to Serve Maple Roasted Carrots with Cranberries

Presenting your maple roasted carrots with cranberries in an appealing way can make all the difference at your dining table! Here are some ideas to inspire you.

Garnishes

• Chopped parsley or cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh herbs adds color and freshness, enhancing both the visual appeal and flavor.
• Pomegranate seeds: These add a burst of color and a delightful crunch, along with an extra layer of sweetness that pairs beautifully with the dish.
• Drizzle of balsamic reduction: A light drizzle over the top can add a tangy contrast that complements the sweet flavors of the carrots and cranberries.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast, balancing the sweetness of the carrots.
• Roasted Brussels sprouts: Their earthy flavor pairs well with the sweetness of this dish while adding more texture to your meal. Simply toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting.
• Wild rice pilaf: The nutty flavor of wild rice complements the dish beautifully while providing additional fiber and nutrients. You can mix in nuts or dried fruit for added interest!
• Stuffed bell peppers: These colorful veggies filled with grains or beans make for hearty companions to your roasted carrots, offering both nutrition and variety on your plate.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll have a stunning centerpiece for any meal – perfect for festive gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners! Enjoy every flavorful bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

Maple roasted carrots with cranberries are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time and store them to enjoy later, making your weeknight dinners or holiday gatherings even easier.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the roasted carrots and cranberries to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• If you want to freeze your maple roasted carrots with cranberries, let them cool first.
• Place them in a freezer-safe container or a zip-top bag, removing as much air as possible.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• To reheat, simply place the frozen or refrigerated mixture in a preheated oven at 180° C / 350° F until warmed through (about 10-15 minutes).
• Alternatively, you could microwave them in short intervals, stirring between each until heated evenly.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making maple roasted carrots with cranberries:

Can I use other vegetables in maple roasted carrots with cranberries?

Absolutely! While this recipe focuses on carrots and cranberries, you can add other root vegetables like parsnips or sweet potatoes for variety.

Are maple roasted carrots with cranberries suitable for meal prep?

Yes! Maple roasted carrots with cranberries are great for meal prep and can be stored in the fridge or freezer for later enjoyment.

How do I adjust the sweetness in maple roasted carrots with cranberries?

You can adjust the amount of maple syrup based on your taste preference. Feel free to start with less and add more if needed!

What should I serve with maple roasted carrots with cranberries?

These delicious roasted veggies pair well with a variety of dishes, including grains, salads, or as part of a festive spread during holidays!

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe brings warmth and joy to your kitchen! Maple roasted carrots with cranberries are not just easy to make; they’re also a delightful way to showcase seasonal produce. Whether it’s for a holiday feast or a simple weeknight dinner, these vibrant flavors will surely impress. Enjoy making this dish, and don’t hesitate to share it with friends and family—trust me, they’ll love it just as much as you do!