Maple roasted carrots with cranberries

If you’re looking for a simple yet stunning side dish, you’ve come to the right place! Maple roasted carrots with cranberries are not just delicious; they bring a beautiful pop of color to your table. This recipe is a favorite of mine because it combines sweet and savory flavors that everyone loves. Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just a cozy dinner at home, these carrots will shine on your plate.

What I adore about this dish is its ease of preparation. You can whip it up quickly and still impress your family or guests. Plus, it’s naturally vegan and gluten-free, making it suitable for various dietary preferences. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a gorgeous dish that looks like you spent hours in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike enjoy the sweet taste of maple and tart cranberries. It’s a hit with everyone!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prep the ingredients earlier in the day, making dinner time less stressful.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of roasted carrots, tangy cranberries, and fragrant thyme creates an irresistible medley.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create these tasty maple roasted carrots with cranberries, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients. Don’t worry; they’re easy to find at any grocery store!

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! Feel free to experiment with different flavors or ingredients based on what you have on hand.

• Add More Veggies: Consider tossing in some parsnips or sweet potatoes for added sweetness and variety.
• Change Up the Nuts: Swap out almond flakes for pecans or walnuts for a different crunch and flavor.
• Spice It Up: If you love heat, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick!
• Citrus Twist: Experiment with different citrus zests like lemon or lime for a refreshing twist.

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 even cooking and helps achieve that lovely caramelization!

Step 2: Prepare the Carrots

Trim the green tops off the carrots (you can make pesto out of them or add them to soups) and cut them in half lengthwise. This allows for more surface area to caramelize while roasting!

Step 3: Coat the Cranberries

Coat the cranberries in 1 tablespoon of maple syrup and mix in the orange zest. This will enhance their natural flavor and add a lovely citrusy note.

Step 4: Mix Your Marinade

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

Step 5: Prepare for Roasting

Coat dry carrots in the maple and harissa mixture (keep any leftovers) and space them out on your lined baking tray. If you have room on one tray, place cranberries at the other end; otherwise, use two trays.

Step 6: Roast Away!

Roast for about 20-25 minutes until carrots are tender and slightly caramelized while cranberries become soft and jammy. If cranberries finish earlier, remove them from the tray with a spatula so they don’t overcook!

Step 7: Toast Those Almonds

Lightly toast almonds in a hot pan until browned and fragrant—this adds wonderful flavor!

Step 8: Serve Up Your Dish

Place roasted carrots and cranberries on a large serving platter. Sprinkle generously with toasted almonds and fresh thyme or finely chopped carrot tops if desired.

And there you have it! Maple roasted carrots with cranberries that are sure to delight at any meal! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Maple Roasted Carrots with Cranberries

Making perfect maple roasted carrots with cranberries is all about the details, so here are some pro tips to help you shine in the kitchen!

• Choose fresh ingredients: Fresh carrots and cranberries not only taste better but also enhance the overall presentation of your dish, making it more appealing.

• Adjust harissa paste to your taste: Since the heat level can vary between brands, starting with a smaller amount allows you to control the spice, ensuring everyone enjoys this dish without overwhelming their palate.

• Don’t overcrowd the baking tray: Giving carrots and cranberries enough space allows them to roast evenly and caramelize beautifully, resulting in that delicious sweet-and-savory flavor we all love.

• Keep an eye on cooking time: Oven temperatures can vary, so checking on your vegetables during roasting ensures they reach that perfect tenderness without becoming mushy.

• Experiment with herbs: While thyme is a fantastic choice, feel free to try other herbs like rosemary or parsley for a different flavor profile that complements the sweetness of the dish.

How to Serve Maple Roasted Carrots with Cranberries

Presenting your maple roasted carrots with cranberries beautifully can elevate any meal. Here are some creative ideas for serving this delightful side dish!

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh thyme or parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Toasted nuts: Adding toasted almonds or walnuts gives a lovely crunch and complements the soft texture of the roasted veggies.
• Zest finish: A light sprinkle of orange zest right before serving enhances the citrus notes and makes each bite even more flavorful.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Salad: A colorful quinoa salad filled with vegetables and a light lemon dressing makes for a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the carrots.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their natural bitterness balances well with the sweetness of your main dish while still being simple to prepare.
• Couscous Pilaf: Fluffy couscous mixed with seasonal vegetables and herbs pairs nicely as a hearty base that complements your roasted carrots.
• Baked Sweet Potatoes: Their creamy texture and sweetness create a delightful harmony alongside your maple roasted carrots, making for a comforting meal.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re ready to impress at your next gathering! Enjoy every bite of these flavorful maple roasted carrots with cranberries.

Make Ahead and Storage

These maple roasted carrots with cranberries are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them ahead of time and enjoy the delicious flavors throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Place the roasted carrots and cranberries in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months. For best quality, try to remove as much air as possible from the bags.

Reheating

• To reheat, preheat your oven to 180° C / 350° F.
• Spread the frozen or refrigerated carrots and cranberries on a baking sheet.
• Heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them for quick reheating!

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delightful recipe!

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 adjust the roasting time based on their size and type.

How do I make maple roasted carrots with cranberries spicier?

If you want more heat, simply add more harissa paste during the preparation. Start with a little extra and taste until it reaches your desired spice level.

Can I prepare maple roasted carrots with cranberries without harissa?

Yes! If you prefer a milder flavor, you can omit the harissa or substitute it with a pinch of cayenne pepper or even smoked paprika for a different twist.

What is the best way to serve maple roasted carrots with cranberries?

These delicious roasted veggies are great on their own but can also be served alongside grains like quinoa or rice for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these maple roasted carrots with cranberries! Their vibrant colors and sweet-tangy flavors will surely brighten your table during any gathering. Whether it’s for a holiday feast or a simple weeknight dinner, this dish is bound to impress. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share it with family and friends!