Maple roasted carrots with cranberries

If you’re looking for a side dish that’s as vibrant as it is delicious, then you have to try these maple roasted carrots with cranberries! This recipe has quickly become one of my favorite go-tos for any family gathering or cozy weeknight dinner. The natural sweetness of the carrots pairs beautifully with the tartness of the cranberries, creating a delightful balance of flavors that everyone will love. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up!

Whether you’re preparing for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just wanting to brighten up your dinner table, these maple roasted carrots with cranberries are perfect for any occasion. Trust me; once you try them, they’ll become a staple in your meal rotation!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With simple steps and minimal prep time, this dish is perfect for busy evenings.
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids love the sweet flavors of carrots and cranberries, making it a hit for everyone at the table.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare most of this dish in advance, saving time on the big day.
• Naturally vegan and gluten-free: Suitable for various dietary preferences without sacrificing taste.
• Stunning presentation: The colors and textures make this dish a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that this recipe calls for simple and wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need to create these delicious maple roasted carrots with cranberries:

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, allowing you to make it your own! Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Add different nuts: Swap almonds for walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch.
• Use different herbs: Try rosemary or sage instead of thyme for a different flavor profile.
• Experiment with spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm twist.
• Include other veggies: Toss in parsnips or sweet potatoes for additional sweetness and texture.

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 caramelize those beautiful carrots.

Step 2: Prepare the Carrots

Trim the green tops off your carrots—don’t throw them away! You can make pesto out of them or add them into soups later. 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 your fresh cranberries in about 1 tablespoon of maple syrup and mix in the orange zest. This step adds an extra layer of sweetness and bright flavor that complements the roasted carrots perfectly.

Step 4: Mix Your Marinade

In another bowl, combine olive oil, 3 tablespoons of maple syrup, harissa paste, thyme leaves (about 1 tablespoon), garlic, salt, and a generous pinch of black pepper. This marinade is where all the magic happens; it infuses the carrots with flavor while they roast.

Step 5: Coat & Arrange Carrots

Coat your dry carrot halves with the maple-harissa mixture (don’t forget to save any leftovers!). Space them out on your baking tray. If you have enough room on one tray, place your coated cranberries at one end; otherwise, use two trays.

Step 6: Roast Away!

Roast everything in your preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes until the carrots are tender and slightly caramelized while your cranberries become soft and jammy. Keep an eye on those cranberries—they might be done sooner! If they are ready first, gently remove them from the tray using a spatula.

Step 7: Toast Those Almonds

While everything is roasting away, toast your almond flakes in a hot pan until they are lightly browned and fragrant. This will enhance their flavor and give a lovely crunch!

Step 8: Serve It Up!

Once everything is done roasting, beautifully arrange your maple roasted carrots alongside those juicy cranberries on a large serving platter. Sprinkle with toasted almonds and fresh thyme or finely chopped carrot tops if desired—but be cautious with those tops since they can be bitter!

And there you have it—delicious maple roasted carrots with cranberries ready to impress at any gathering! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Maple Roasted Carrots with Cranberries

Making maple roasted carrots with cranberries is a delightful experience, and a few simple tips can enhance your dish even further!

• Choose fresh ingredients: Selecting vibrant, young carrots and plump cranberries will ensure your dish bursts with flavor, adding freshness to every bite.

• Adjust the harissa paste: Since the heat of harissa can vary, taste the mixture before coating the carrots. This way, you can customize the spice level to suit your preference.

• Don’t overcrowd the tray: Spacing out the carrots and cranberries on your baking tray allows for better caramelization and prevents steaming, ensuring that lovely roasted texture we all adore.

• Use leftover marinade wisely: If you have leftover marinade, brush it onto the carrots halfway through roasting. This extra layer of flavor will make them even more irresistible!

• Toast almonds carefully: Keep an eye on your almonds while toasting; they can go from golden to burnt in a flash. Toasting brings out their nutty flavor and adds a delicious crunch to your dish.

How to Serve Maple Roasted Carrots with Cranberries

Presenting maple roasted carrots with cranberries is all about showcasing their vibrant colors and textures. Here are some ideas on how to serve this gorgeous dish!

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh thyme or finely chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the caramelized sweetness of the carrots.
• Citrus zest: A bit more orange zest sprinkled on top just before serving enhances the citrus notes in the dish, making it even more aromatic.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette pairs beautifully with the sweetness of roasted carrots and provides a refreshing contrast.
• Garlic mashed potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes offer comfort alongside this dish; their rich texture balances out the bright flavors of the roasted vegetables.
• Roasted Brussels sprouts: The slight bitterness of roasted Brussels sprouts complements the sweet notes in this recipe, creating an amazing flavor combination.
• Lentil stew: A hearty lentil stew provides protein and earthiness that rounds out your meal while also being easy to prepare ahead of time.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to enjoy a delightful plate of maple roasted carrots with cranberries that will impress family and friends alike! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

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

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the roasted carrots and cranberries to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will stay fresh for about 3-5 days.

Freezing

• For long-term storage, freeze the roasted carrots and cranberries in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• To reheat, place the desired portion on a baking tray and warm in a preheated oven at 180° C / 350° F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave them for a few minutes, stirring occasionally for even heating.

FAQs

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

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

Absolutely! While this recipe focuses on carrots, feel free to add other root vegetables like parsnips or sweet potatoes for extra flavor and texture.

How do I make maple roasted carrots with cranberries gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free! Just ensure that any additional ingredients you may use are also labeled gluten-free.

How long do maple roasted carrots with cranberries last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, maple roasted carrots with cranberries will last about 3-5 days in the refrigerator.

What can I serve with maple roasted carrots with cranberries?

These delicious carrots pair beautifully with grain dishes, salads, or as part of a festive holiday spread. They also enhance any vegan or vegetarian meal!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these maple roasted carrots with cranberries! This dish not only adds vibrant color to your table but also brings together sweet and savory flavors that everyone will love. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just a cozy dinner at home, these roasted veggies are sure to impress. Enjoy every bite and don’t hesitate to share your experience!