Maple roasted carrots with cranberries

If you’re looking for a side dish that is not only delicious but also bursting with seasonal flavors, then you’ll absolutely adore these Maple roasted carrots with cranberries! This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it combines the natural sweetness of carrots with the tartness of cranberries, all drizzled in rich maple syrup. It’s an easy dish to whip up, making it perfect for those busy weeknights or festive family gatherings.

These roasted carrots are not just pretty to look at; they are vegan, gluten-free, and full of wholesome ingredients. Whether you’re preparing for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just a cozy dinner at home, this dish will surely steal the spotlight on your table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: This recipe comes together quickly with minimal fuss. Perfect for any skill level in the kitchen!
• Flavorful Combination: The pairing of sweet maple syrup and tart cranberries creates a delightful balance that everyone will enjoy.
• Make-Ahead Potential: You can prepare the marinade ahead of time and roast the veggies just before serving.
• Versatile Side Dish: Great for holiday feasts or as a vibrant addition to your everyday meals.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the sweetness of the roasted carrots and cranberries, making it a hit at family dinners.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients to create this scrumptious dish. Each component plays a vital role in crafting that delicious flavor profile we all crave!

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

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to play around with different flavors and ingredients to make it your own.

• Add Nuts: Toss in some walnuts or pecans for added crunch and healthy fats.
• Swap the Sweetener: Use agave nectar or honey as an alternative to maple syrup for a different sweet touch.
• Spice It Up: For those who love heat, add more harissa paste or even some chili flakes to give it a kick.
• Mix Up the Herbs: Fresh rosemary or sage can replace thyme for a different aromatic experience.

How to Make Maple roasted carrots with cranberries

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by setting your oven to 170° C / 340° F fan forced (or 190° C / 375° F without fan). Lining your baking tray with baking paper saves time on cleanup and helps prevent sticking, so don’t skip this step!

Step 2: Prepare Your Carrots

Trim off the green tops from your scrubbed carrots—these can be saved for making pesto or thrown into soups later. Cut each carrot in half lengthwise so they roast evenly and soak up all those wonderful flavors.

Step 3: Coat the Cranberries

In a small bowl, coat the fresh cranberries in 1 tablespoon of maple syrup and mix them with orange zest. This step enhances their sweetness while adding a hint of citrus that pairs beautifully with our roasted carrots.

Step 4: Mix Your Marinade

Combine olive oil, remaining maple syrup (3 tablespoons), harissa paste, thyme leaves (about a tablespoon), grated garlic, salt, and black pepper in another bowl. This mixture is what makes your carrots sing with flavor!

Step 5: Coat Your Carrots

Now it’s time to coat those lovely carrot halves in your flavorful marinade. Make sure they’re well covered! Space them out on your lined baking tray; if you have room, put cranberries at one end—if not, use two trays.

Step 6: Roast Away!

Roast everything in the oven for about 20-25 minutes until your carrots are tender and slightly caramelized. Keep an eye on those cranberries; if they start getting jammy sooner than expected, remove them early so they don’t overcook. If you have leftover marinade, feel free to brush it onto the carrots halfway through cooking!

Step 7: Toast Your Almonds

While everything roasts away, toast your almond flakes lightly in a hot pan until they’re golden brown and fragrant. This adds an extra layer of flavor and crunch!

Step 8: Serve It Up!

Once done roasting, transfer your beautiful carrots and soft cranberries onto a large serving platter. Sprinkle those toasted almonds on top along with fresh thyme or chopped carrot tops—just be careful not to overdo it as they can be bitter!

And there you have it! A gorgeous plate of Maple roasted carrots with cranberries ready to impress everyone at your table. Enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Maple Roasted Carrots with Cranberries

Creating the perfect maple roasted carrots with cranberries is a breeze with just a few helpful tips. Let’s make your dish even more delightful!

• Choose fresh ingredients: Using fresh, vibrant carrots and cranberries enhances both the flavor and presentation of your dish. Fresh produce ensures a crisp texture and bright taste that frozen counterparts lack.

• Adjust the harissa to your taste: If you’re unsure about spice levels, start with less harissa paste and add more as needed. This way, you can control the heat and ensure it suits everyone’s palate.

• Don’t overcrowd the baking tray: Spacing out the carrots allows for better caramelization and even cooking. When vegetables are too close together, they tend to steam rather than roast, which can affect texture.

• Keep an eye on the cranberries: These little gems can go from perfectly tender to mushy quickly, so remove them from the oven as soon as they start to burst. This keeps them sweet and jammy without losing their shape.

• Get creative with toppings: While toasted almonds add a lovely crunch, consider experimenting with other toppings like pumpkin seeds or even pomegranate seeds for added texture and a pop of color.

How to Serve Maple Roasted Carrots with Cranberries

Presenting your maple roasted carrots with cranberries beautifully can elevate any meal. Here are some ideas to help you impress your guests!

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh thyme or parsley not only adds color but also enhances the flavor profile of the dish.
• Citrus zest: A touch of additional orange or lemon zest on top brightens up the dish visually and adds a refreshing zing.
• Creamy vegan dressing: Drizzling a simple tahini or cashew cream sauce can take this dish to another level, adding creaminess that complements the sweetness.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and lemon vinaigrette pairs wonderfully, adding protein and lightness.
• Roasted Brussels sprouts: The earthy flavor of roasted Brussels sprouts balances nicely with the sweetness of the carrots and cranberries.
• Herbed couscous: Fluffy couscous tossed with herbs provides a perfect base that absorbs all those delicious flavors from the carrots.
• Garlic mashed potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes offer comfort alongside these vibrant veggies, making for a heartwarming meal.

With these pro tips and serving suggestions, your maple roasted carrots with cranberries will not only taste amazing but also look stunning on your table! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

Maple roasted carrots with cranberries are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them ahead of time, store them, and enjoy them later without losing their delightful flavor.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the roasted carrots and cranberries to cool completely.
• Transfer them to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Place the cooled roasted carrots and cranberries in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Ensure you remove as much air as possible before sealing.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. Just remember that freezing may slightly alter the texture.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in the oven at 180° C / 350° F until warmed through (about 10-15 minutes).
• Alternatively, you can microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this tasty dish!

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

Absolutely! While carrots are the star of this recipe, you can experiment with parsnips or sweet potatoes for an exciting twist.

What do I serve with maple roasted carrots with cranberries?

These delightful roasted carrots pair wonderfully with grain dishes, salads, or your favorite protein options. They make a lovely side for any festive meal!

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

Feel free to modify the amount of maple syrup based on your taste preferences. You can start with less and add more if desired!

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

Yes! These flavors develop beautifully over time, making them an excellent choice for meal prep or holiday gatherings.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing these maple roasted carrots with cranberries! Their vibrant colors and delicious flavors will surely brighten up your table during any season. Whether it’s for a holiday feast or a simple weeknight dinner, this recipe is bound to impress. Enjoy making it and sharing it with loved ones!