Maple roasted carrots with cranberries

If you’re looking for a simple yet exquisite side dish that brightens up any meal, you’ve come to the right place! Maple roasted carrots with cranberries are a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors. This recipe is not just easy to whip up, but it also brings a touch of elegance to your dinner table. Whether you’re preparing for a cozy family gathering or simply enjoying a busy weeknight meal, this dish will surely impress.

What makes these maple roasted carrots with cranberries truly special is their versatility. They pair perfectly with holiday feasts or casual dinners alike, making them a favorite in my kitchen all year round. The vibrant colors and delicious aromas will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can have a stunning side dish that requires minimal hands-on time.
• Family-Friendly: The sweet flavors of maple syrup and cranberries make this dish appealing to both kids and adults.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep the ingredients ahead of time so you can pop them in the oven whenever you’re ready.
• Deliciously Nutritious: Packed with vitamins from the carrots and antioxidants from the cranberries, this dish is as healthy as it is tasty.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll love how simple and wholesome these ingredients are! Each one plays an important role in creating the rich flavors of this dish. Gather these goodies before we dive into cooking:

For the Carrots

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

For the Cranberries

• 100 g / 3.5 oz fresh cranberries
• 60 ml / ¼ cup maple syrup, divided
• zest of ½ large orange

For Garnishing

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

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, allowing you to customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add Other Vegetables: Toss in some parsnips or sweet potatoes for added sweetness and variety.
• Switch Up the Nuts: Use walnuts or pecans instead of almonds for a different crunch.
• Try Different Herbs: Fresh rosemary or sage can add an aromatic twist if you’re feeling adventurous.
• Make It Spicy: If you like a bit more heat, add extra harissa paste or even some chili flakes.

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). Line one large baking tray (or two smaller ones) with baking paper. Preheating the oven ensures that your carrots roast evenly and caramelize beautifully.

Step 2: Prepare the Carrots

Trim the green tops off the carrots and cut them in half lengthwise. This not only makes them cook faster but also allows more surface area for that delicious glaze!

Step 3: Coat the Cranberries

In a small bowl, coat your fresh cranberries in 1 tablespoon of maple syrup and mix in orange zest. This step enhances their natural tartness and adds a lovely citrusy note.

Step 4: Mix Your Marinade

In another bowl, combine olive oil, three tablespoons of maple syrup, harissa paste, thyme leaves (about one tablespoon), garlic, salt, and a good pinch of black pepper. This flavorful marinade will stick to your carrots and create an irresistible glaze.

Step 5: Roast Those Carrots!

Coat your dry carrot halves in the maple and harissa mixture. Space them out on your lined baking tray! If you have room on one tray, place cranberries at one end; otherwise, use two trays. Roasting them together allows their flavors to mingle beautifully.

Step 6: Keep an Eye on Them

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

Step 7: Toast Your Almonds

While everything is roasting away, toast your almond flakes lightly in a hot pan until they are golden brown and fragrant. This step adds another layer of flavor and texture!

Step 8: Serve it Up!

Once done roasting, place those beautiful carrots and cranberries on a large serving platter. Sprinkle with toasted almonds and fresh thyme for an elegant finish. Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Maple Roasted Carrots with Cranberries

Making these maple roasted carrots with cranberries is a breeze, and with a few handy tips, you’ll elevate this dish to perfection!

• Choose fresh carrots: Fresh, young carrots will provide a sweet and tender bite that enhances the overall flavor of the dish. Look for vibrant colors and smooth skins.

• Adjust sweetness to taste: Feel free to modify the amount of maple syrup based on your preference! If you like it sweeter, add more; if not, reduce it slightly. This flexibility allows you to tailor the dish to your liking.

• Experiment with herbs: While thyme adds a lovely aroma, don’t hesitate to try other herbs such as rosemary or dill for a different flavor profile. Each herb can bring a unique twist to the dish!

• Don’t skip the almonds: Toasted almond flakes add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that complements the sweetness of the carrots and cranberries beautifully. They also contribute an appealing texture contrast.

• Serve warm: These roasted veggies are best enjoyed warm out of the oven. If you’re prepping them in advance, simply reheat them briefly before serving for that fresh-from-the-oven taste.

How to Serve Maple Roasted Carrots with Cranberries

Presenting your maple roasted carrots with cranberries beautifully can make all the difference at your dining table. Here are some creative ideas to make this dish shine!

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of additional thyme or parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to your dish.
• Citrus zest: A little more orange zest scattered on top can enhance the citrus notes and provide an eye-catching finish.
• Pomegranate seeds: These jewel-like seeds not only add vibrant color but also introduce a burst of tartness that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the carrots and cranberries.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Salad: A fluffy quinoa salad mixed with cucumber, bell peppers, and lemon dressing provides a refreshing counterpoint to the sweet roasted vegetables.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting companion that balances out the flavors on your plate.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Seasoned with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, these crispy Brussels sprouts add depth and savory notes that pair beautifully with sweet carrots.
• Spinach Salad: A light spinach salad tossed with nuts, berries, and a citrus vinaigrette offers a crisp texture and brightness that complements your main dish perfectly.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your maple roasted carrots with cranberries will not only taste fantastic but will look amazing too! Enjoy cooking this delightful dish for your next gathering or cozy dinner at home.

Make Ahead and Storage

These maple roasted carrots with cranberries are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy their delightful flavors throughout the week. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday gathering or simply want to have a delicious side ready to go, this recipe stores beautifully!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the carrots and cranberries to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer them to an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• If you want to freeze, let the dish cool completely.
• Place in a freezer-safe container or a resealable freezer bag.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months. Note: The texture may change slightly upon thawing.

Reheating

• To reheat, simply place the carrots and cranberries on a baking tray and warm in a preheated oven at 180° C / 350° F until heated through (about 10-15 minutes).
• Alternatively, you can microwave them in short intervals until warmed to your liking.

FAQs

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

Can I use frozen cranberries for maple roasted carrots with cranberries?

Yes, you can use frozen cranberries! Just add them directly to the recipe without thawing. They might take a little longer to cook down.

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

You can easily modify the amount of maple syrup based on your taste preference. Start with less and add more if desired after roasting!

What can I serve alongside maple roasted carrots with cranberries?

These carrots pair wonderfully with roasted meats, grain bowls, or even as part of a festive holiday spread.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these delightful maple roasted carrots with cranberries! They’re not just visually stunning but also packed with flavor that elevates any meal. Whether it’s for a special occasion or simply enjoying at home, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your experience!