Maple roasted carrots with cranberries

If you’re looking for a delightful side dish that’s both easy to make and bursting with flavor, then you’ve come to the right place! Maple roasted carrots with cranberries have a special place in my heart. They are not only visually stunning but also bring a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness. This dish is wonderful for holiday gatherings like Thanksgiving or Christmas, but honestly, it shines on any busy weeknight too.

What makes this recipe extra special is how simple it is. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, you can create something truly delicious that your whole family will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time, you can whip up this side dish in no time.
• Naturally Vegan and Gluten-Free: Perfect for all dietary preferences, making it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
• Flavorful and Festive: The combination of maple syrup and cranberries adds a touch of sweetness that complements the earthiness of the carrots.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep the ingredients ahead of time, making your holiday cooking stress-free.
• Beautiful Presentation: The vibrant colors make this dish not only tasty but also visually appealing on your table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating maple roasted carrots with cranberries is all about using simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:

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 Garnish

• 20 g / ¼ cup almond flakes

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ideas to customize your maple roasted carrots with cranberries:

• Add More Veggies: Toss in some parsnips or sweet potatoes for extra color and flavor.
• Spice It Up: Adjust the harissa paste based on your spice preference, or try adding a pinch of cinnamon for warmth.
• Nut Alternatives: Swap almond flakes for walnuts or pecans if you prefer a different nutty crunch.
• Citrus Twist: Experiment with other citrus zest like lemon or lime to brighten up the flavors even more.

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 a large baking tray with baking paper will help prevent sticking and make cleanup easier later!

Step 2: Prepare the Carrots

Trim off the green tops from the carrots—don’t throw those away! You can use them in pestos or soups. Cut each carrot in half lengthwise so they roast evenly and soak up all those delicious flavors.

Step 3: Coat the Cranberries

In a small bowl, coat the fresh cranberries with about 1 tablespoon of maple syrup and mix in the orange zest. This step enhances their natural tartness—and trust me, they will turn wonderfully jammy during roasting!

Step 4: Make the Marinade

In another bowl, whisk together olive oil, the remaining maple syrup (about 3 tablespoons), harissa paste, thyme leaves (about 1 tablespoon), grated garlic, salt, and a good pinch of black pepper. This flavorful mixture will give our carrots that irresistible taste!

Step 5: Coat the Carrots

Now it’s time to dive in! Coat your dry carrot halves in that tasty maple-harissa mixture. Spread them out on your prepared baking tray—if there’s room on one tray, add those beautiful cranberries at one end!

Step 6: Roast Away!

Pop everything into your preheated oven and roast for about 20-25 minutes until the carrots are tender and slightly caramelized while the cranberries become soft and jammy. If those cranberries finish first, simply remove them from the tray.

Step 7: Toast Those Nuts!

While your veggies are roasting away, toast your almond flakes in a hot pan until they’re lightly browned and fragrant. This adds an extra layer of crunch!

Step 8: Serve It Up!

Once everything is beautifully roasted, transfer your carrots and cranberries onto a lovely serving platter. Sprinkle those toasted almonds on top along with some fresh thyme or finely chopped carrot tops—just be mindful as they can be quite bitter!

And there you have it—your stunning plate of maple roasted carrots with cranberries! Perfect for sharing around the table or enjoying on a cozy night in!

Pro Tips for Making Maple Roasted Carrots with Cranberries

Embrace your inner chef with these handy tips that will elevate your maple roasted carrots to perfection!

• Choose the Right Carrots: Opt for medium young carrots as they are sweeter and more tender. This ensures that your dish is not only flavorful but also has a pleasing texture.

• Adjust the Harissa Paste: Since harissa can vary in strength, start with a smaller amount and taste as you go. This allows you to find the perfect spice level for your palate without overwhelming the dish.

• Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Tray: Give your carrots and cranberries room to breathe on the tray to promote even roasting. This helps achieve that delightful caramelization, enhancing both flavor and presentation.

• Toast Almonds Just Before Serving: Toasting almonds right before serving maximizes their crunchiness and flavor. Their warm, nutty aroma will complement the sweet and tangy notes of the dish beautifully.

• Experiment with Herbs: While thyme is a lovely choice, feel free to experiment with other herbs like rosemary or parsley for an added flavor twist. Fresh herbs can brighten up the dish and make it visually appealing.

How to Serve Maple Roasted Carrots with Cranberries

Presenting your maple roasted carrots with cranberries in an inviting way can transform this simple side dish into a show-stopper at any gathering!

Garnishes

• Fresh Thyme Sprigs: A few sprigs of fresh thyme not only add a pop of color but also enhance the aromatic profile of the dish.
• Chopped Carrot Tops: Finely chopped carrot tops (use sparingly) can bring a hint of earthy flavor, making them an unexpected yet delightful garnish.
• Zest of Orange: A sprinkle of freshly grated orange zest on top just before serving brightens up the flavors and adds a refreshing citrus note.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumber, tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette pairs wonderfully by adding protein and freshness.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These crispy veggies provide a contrasting texture while complementing the sweetness of the carrots beautifully.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting combination that balances out the tangy cranberries.
• Couscous with Herbs: Fluffy couscous mixed with fresh herbs offers a light, fluffy base that absorbs leftover juices from your roasted carrots, enhancing every bite.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to impress your family and friends with this gorgeous and delicious side dish! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This recipe for maple roasted carrots with cranberries is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious flavors without the last-minute rush. You can easily prepare and store these vibrant veggies ahead of time, making them a convenient addition to your meals.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover maple roasted carrots with cranberries in an airtight container.
• Keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Ensure they are cooled completely before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezing

• For longer storage, you can freeze the roasted carrots and cranberries.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, ensuring as much air as possible is removed.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months; however, the texture may change slightly upon reheating.

Reheating

• To reheat, you can place the leftovers in a preheated oven at 180° C / 350° F for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
• Alternatively, microwave them in short intervals (30 seconds) until hot.
• Add a drizzle of olive oil or a splash of water if they seem dry during reheating.

FAQs

If you’re curious about maple roasted carrots with cranberries, here are some common questions and answers to help you out!

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

Absolutely! You can mix in other root vegetables like parsnips or sweet potatoes. Just cut them into similar sizes for even roasting.

What can I serve with maple roasted carrots with cranberries?

These delightful carrots pair well with a variety of dishes! Consider serving them alongside quinoa salad, lentil dishes, or your favorite plant-based protein for a complete meal.

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

You can easily adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of maple syrup. Start with less and taste as you go, adding more if desired for that perfect balance!

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe for maple roasted carrots with cranberries becomes a cherished part of your cooking repertoire! The combination of sweet and savory flavors makes it not just delicious but also visually stunning on any table. Enjoy every moment spent preparing this dish, and don’t hesitate to share your experience. Happy cooking!