Maple roasted carrots with cranberries

If you’re looking for a side dish that brings warmth and comfort to your table, look no further than these delightful maple roasted carrots with cranberries. This recipe is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s packed with flavor and nutrition. With the sweetness of maple syrup and the tartness of fresh cranberries, these roasted carrots become a perfect companion for any meal. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply enjoying a cozy dinner at home, this dish fits seamlessly into both casual weeknights and special occasions.

The beauty of maple roasted carrots with cranberries lies in their vibrant colors and rich flavors that appeal to everyone. Plus, they’re super easy to whip up! You’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again—trust me, your friends and family will be asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have this stunning side dish ready in no time.
• Naturally Delicious: The balance of sweet and tangy flavors makes it a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Versatile Side Dish: Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or even a simple weeknight meal.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fiber and vitamins, this recipe is as good for you as it is tasty.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Roast the carrots ahead of time and reheat them when you’re ready to serve!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making maple roasted carrots with cranberries is simple, thanks to these wholesome ingredients. You probably have most of them in your kitchen already!

For the Carrots

• 500 g / 1.1 lb / 17 oz medium young carrots, scrubbed clean
• 60 ml / ¼ cup maple syrup, divided
• 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

For the Cranberries

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

For Topping

• 20 g / ¼ cup almond flakes

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Add some spice: If you like it hot, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade for an extra kick!
• Switch up the nuts: Use walnuts or pecans instead of almonds for a different texture and flavor.
• Go seasonal: Substitute cranberries with pomegranate seeds during their peak season for a delightful twist.
• Herb infusion: Experiment with rosemary or sage instead of thyme for an earthy flavor profile.

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). Lining one large baking tray (or two smaller ones) with baking paper helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier!

Step 2: Prepare the Carrots

Trim off the green tops from your carrots. Not only does this make them look tidy, but you can also use those greens in other dishes like pesto or soups! Cut each carrot in half lengthwise so they roast evenly.

Step 3: Coat Cranberries

In a small bowl, coat those beautiful cranberries in one tablespoon of maple syrup and mix in the zest from half an orange. This gives them a lovely citrusy touch that complements the carrots perfectly.

Step 4: Whisk Together Marinade

In another bowl, combine olive oil, three tablespoons of maple syrup, harissa paste, thyme leaves (about one tablespoon), grated garlic, salt, and a good pinch of black pepper. This flavorful marinade will infuse your carrots with deliciousness!

Step 5: Arrange on Baking Tray

Coat your trimmed carrots in the maple-harissa mixture—don’t forget to save any leftovers! Spread them out on your baking tray so they have room to caramelize beautifully. If you have space on one tray, place cranberries at the other end; otherwise use separate trays.

Step 6: Roast Away!

Roast everything in the oven for about 20-25 minutes until those carrots are tender and starting to caramelize. Watch your cranberries; if they get soft sooner than expected, remove them gently so they don’t overcook.

Step 7: Toast Almonds

While your veggies are roasting away, lightly toast almond flakes in a hot pan until browned and fragrant. This step adds crunchiness that elevates your dish!

Step 8: Serve It Up!

Once everything is out of the oven and smelling fantastic, arrange roasted carrots and cranberries on a large serving platter. Sprinkle toasted almonds on top along with fresh thyme or finely chopped carrot tops (just remember—less is more here!).

And there you have it! A beautiful dish that not only looks stunning but tastes divine too. Enjoy sharing these maple roasted carrots with cranberries at your next gathering!

Pro Tips for Making Maple Roasted Carrots with Cranberries

To make your maple roasted carrots with cranberries even more delightful, consider these simple yet effective tips!

• Choose fresh ingredients: Fresh carrots and cranberries will enhance the flavor of this dish. Look for vibrant colors and firm textures to ensure maximum taste and nutrition.

• Adjust the harissa to your liking: Harissa paste can vary in spice levels. Start with a smaller amount and taste as you go, allowing you to tailor the heat to your preference while still enjoying the depth of flavor it adds.

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Giving your carrots space on the baking tray helps them roast evenly, achieving that lovely caramelization. If they are too close together, they may steam rather than roast.

• Keep an eye on the cranberries: These little gems cook quickly! Remove them as soon as they become soft and jammy to prevent overcooking, which can lead to a mushy texture.

• Experiment with nuts: While almond flakes add a delightful crunch, feel free to substitute or mix in other nuts like walnuts or pecans for a different flavor profile.

How to Serve Maple Roasted Carrots with Cranberries

Presenting your maple roasted carrots with cranberries beautifully can elevate your dining experience. Here are some creative ideas to serve this dish:

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh thyme or parsley adds a burst of color and freshness that complements the sweetness of the carrots.
• Citrus zest: Grating some additional orange or lemon zest over the top just before serving brightens up the flavors even more.
• Vegan yogurt drizzle: For an extra creamy touch, drizzle some dairy-free yogurt over the dish before serving. It adds richness and balances out the sweetness.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad with seasonal vegetables is a wonderful pairing. Its nutty flavor complements the sweetness of the carrots while adding protein to your meal.
• Roasted Brussels sprouts: The slightly bitter notes of roasted Brussels sprouts contrast beautifully with sweet maple carrots, creating a balanced plate.
• Couscous with herbs: Fluffy couscous mixed with fresh herbs and lemon juice makes for a refreshing side that enhances the overall brightness of your meal.
• Simple green salad: A crisp salad tossed with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette rounds out this dish nicely, providing freshness alongside the roasted flavors.

Enjoy creating and sharing this delightful dish at your next gathering!

Make Ahead and Storage

This recipe for maple roasted carrots with cranberries is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy its delicious flavors throughout the week. Preparing this dish in advance means you can savor the delightful combination of sweet and savory whenever you need a quick side.

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

• Ensure the roasted vegetables are fully cooled.
• Place them in a freezer-safe container or a zip-top bag, removing as much air as possible.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes.
• Alternatively, you can reheat in the microwave in 30-second intervals until hot.

FAQs

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

Can I use different types of carrots for maple roasted carrots with cranberries?

Yes! While medium young carrots are recommended for their sweetness and tenderness, you can certainly use other varieties like baby carrots or even rainbow carrots for an appealing visual contrast.

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

To modify the sweetness, simply reduce the amount of maple syrup. You can also add a splash of lemon juice or extra herbs to balance flavors if you prefer a less sweet dish.

What other nuts can I use with maple roasted carrots with cranberries?

While almond flakes provide a lovely crunch, feel free to substitute them with walnuts or pecans based on your preference. Just toast them lightly before adding!

Can leftovers of maple roasted carrots with cranberries be reheated effectively?

Absolutely! Leftovers reheat well either in the oven or microwave. Just make sure not to overcook them again to maintain their texture.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these maple roasted carrots with cranberries! This vibrant dish not only brightens up your table but also fills your home with a warm, inviting aroma. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday gathering or enjoying it on a cozy weeknight, it’s sure to impress. Enjoy every bite and feel free to share your experience with me!