Maple roasted carrots with cranberries

If you’re looking for a delightful side dish that brings both warmth and flavor to your table, look no further than maple roasted carrots with cranberries! This recipe has become a cherished favorite in my household, especially during the holiday season. The sweet caramelization from the maple syrup perfectly complements the tartness of the cranberries, creating a bright and beautiful addition to any meal.

Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a festive family gathering, these roasted carrots are an easy way to impress your loved ones. Plus, they are naturally vegan and gluten-free, making them suitable for everyone at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious side dish ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love the sweet and tangy flavors of this dish.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make them ahead of time and simply reheat when you’re ready to serve.
• Versatile Serving Options: Great as a side for any meal or even as a topping on salads!
• Festive Flair: Their vibrant colors make them an eye-catching addition to holiday spreads.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are not only simple but also wholesome! Preparing maple roasted carrots with cranberries requires just a handful of items that you can easily find at your local grocery store.

For the Roasted Carrots

• 500 g / 1.1 lb / 17 oz medium young carrots, scrubbed clean
• 100 g / 3.5 oz fresh cranberries
• 60 ml / ¼ cup maple syrup, divided
• Zest of ½ large orange
• 30 ml / 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 tsp harissa paste, adjust to taste (strength varies!)
• A few springs of thyme or lemon thyme
• 1 garlic clove, finely grated
• ½ tsp salt, adjust to taste
• Black pepper, to serve
• 20 g / ¼ cup almond flakes

Variations

The beauty of maple roasted carrots with cranberries is their flexibility. You can easily adapt this recipe to suit your taste or what you have on hand!

• Add some spice: Include additional spices like cumin or paprika for a different flavor profile.
• Switch up the nuts: Use walnuts or pecans instead of almonds for added crunch and richness.
• Incorporate other veggies: Feel free to toss in parsnips or sweet potatoes for an extra veggie boost.
• Make it citrusy: Add some lemon juice over the top before serving for a zesty finish.

How to Make Maple roasted carrots with cranberries

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Set the oven to 170° C / 340° F fan forced (or 190° C / 375° F no fan) and line one large baking tray (or two smaller ones) with baking paper. Preheating ensures that your carrots roast evenly and develop that lovely caramelization.

Step 2: Prepare the Carrots

Trim the green tops off the carrots; you can save those for another use like pesto. Cut the carrots into halves lengthwise so they cook evenly and soak up all those delicious flavors.

Step 3: Coat the Cranberries

In a small bowl, coat the fresh cranberries in 1 tablespoon of maple syrup and mix in the orange zest. This step enhances their natural sweetness while adding a bright citrus note.

Step 4: Mix Your Marinade

In another bowl, combine olive oil, 3 tablespoons of maple syrup, harissa paste, about 1 tablespoon of thyme leaves, grated garlic, salt, and a good pinch of black pepper. This flavorful mixture will coat your carrots beautifully.

Step 5: Arrange on Baking Tray

Coat the dry carrots in the maple and harissa mixture (don’t forget any leftovers!) and space them out on your lined baking tray. If you have room on one tray, place cranberries at one end; otherwise use two trays.

Step 6: Roast Them Up!

Roast everything for about 20-25 minutes until your carrots are tender with slightly caramelized edges and your cranberries are soft and jammy. If cranberries finish sooner, remove them gently from the tray using a spatula.

Step 7: Toast Those Almonds

Toast almond flakes lightly in a hot pan until browned and fragrant. This adds another layer of flavor and crunch!

Step 8: Serve It Up

Arrange your roasted carrots and cranberries on a large serving platter. Finish by sprinkling with toasted almonds and fresh thyme or finely chopped carrot tops—just be careful not to overdo it as they can be bitter.

And there you have it! A stunning dish that’s sure to wow everyone at your table. Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Maple Roasted Carrots with Cranberries

Creating the perfect dish can be a breeze with just a few helpful tips! Here are some ideas to make your maple roasted carrots shine.

• Select the right carrots: Choosing medium young carrots ensures they’re tender and sweet. Look for vibrant colors and smooth skins for the best flavor.
• Adjust the heat: If you like your carrots with a bit of char, feel free to increase the oven temperature towards the end of cooking. Just keep an eye on them to prevent burning!
• Experiment with flavors: Don’t hesitate to adjust the harissa paste according to your spice preference. A little extra can give your dish a delightful kick!
• Use fresh herbs: Fresh thyme or even parsley can brighten up your dish and add a lovely aroma. Just sprinkle them on right before serving for an extra pop of flavor.
• Make ahead: You can prepare the carrot marinade in advance and store it in the fridge. This way, when you’re ready to cook, all you need to do is coat and roast!

How to Serve Maple Roasted Carrots with Cranberries

Presenting your dish beautifully can elevate any meal. Here are some ideas to make your maple roasted carrots with cranberries not only delicious but visually appealing as well.

Garnishes

• Toasted nuts: Besides almond flakes, consider using walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or chives right before serving adds freshness and a touch of color.
• Zest: Grating some extra orange zest over the top will enhance the citrus notes and look beautiful on your plate.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and lemon dressing complements the sweetness of the carrots perfectly.
• Roasted Brussels sprouts: Their earthy flavor pairs wonderfully with sweet roasted veggies, making for a balanced plate.
• Garlic mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes offer comfort and contrast nicely against the texture of roasted carrots.
• Mixed greens salad: A simple salad with arugula, spinach, and a vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch that balances out this dish beautifully.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your maple roasted carrots with cranberries will not only taste amazing but also impress everyone at your table! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This recipe for maple roasted carrots with cranberries is fantastic for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy this flavorful side dish anytime without the rush. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your leftovers effectively.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the roasted carrots and cranberries to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Separate the almonds if you prefer them crunchy; add them just before serving.

Freezing

• Cooled roasted carrots and cranberries can be frozen in a freezer-safe container.
• They can last up to 2 months in the freezer.
• For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 175° C / 350° F.
• Spread the leftover carrots and cranberries on a baking tray and cover with foil to retain moisture.
• Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through; remove foil for the last few minutes to regain some crispness.

FAQs

Here are some common questions regarding this delicious recipe!

Can I make maple roasted carrots with cranberries ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare them a day in advance and store them in the fridge. Just reheat before serving for the best taste.

How do I enhance the flavor of maple roasted carrots with cranberries?

You can add additional spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg, or even a splash of balsamic vinegar for extra depth.

Are maple roasted carrots with cranberries suitable for vegan diets?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally vegan, gluten-free, and made without any animal-derived ingredients.

What can I serve with maple roasted carrots with cranberries?

These beautiful carrots pair wonderfully with grain dishes, salads, or as part of a larger festive spread.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful recipe for maple roasted carrots with cranberries as much as I love sharing it! It’s not only visually stunning but also packed with flavor that will elevate any meal. Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a cozy weeknight dinner, these sweet and savory roasted veggies are sure to impress. Happy cooking!