Maple roasted carrots with cranberries

If you’re looking for a side dish that’s bursting with flavor and super easy to prepare, you’ve found it! These Maple roasted carrots with cranberries are a delightful combination of sweet and savory. They not only bring a pop of color to your table but also fill your home with an irresistible aroma. This recipe has become a favorite in my household, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings during the festive season.

What I love most about these roasted carrots is how they celebrate simple ingredients while delivering big on taste. Plus, they are naturally vegan and gluten-free, making them suitable for various dietary preferences. So whether you’re hosting Thanksgiving dinner or just want something special for a weeknight meal, these Maple roasted carrots with cranberries will surely impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious dish in no time.
• Crowd-Pleaser: The blend of sweet maple syrup and tangy cranberries is a hit with both kids and adults!
• Nutrient-Rich: Packed with vitamins from the carrots and antioxidants from the cranberries, this dish is as healthy as it is tasty.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep everything in advance, making it perfect for holiday feasts or potlucks.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it warm or at room temperature; it fits right in at any meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients to bring this dish to life! Each one plays an important role in creating the delicious flavors of Maple roasted carrots with cranberries.

For the Roasted 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
• 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
• 60 ml / ¼ cup maple syrup, divided
• zest of ½ large orange

For Garnish

• a few sprigs of thyme or lemon thyme
• 20 g / ¼ cup almond flakes

Variations

This recipe is flexible, so feel free to get creative! Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Add a little heat: If you enjoy spice, try adding some red pepper flakes along with the harissa paste for an extra kick.
• Switch up the nuts: Instead of almond flakes, use pecans or walnuts for a different flavor profile.
• Incorporate other veggies: Toss in some parsnips or sweet potatoes for added variety and sweetness.
• Experiment with herbs: Fresh rosemary or sage can add another layer of flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweetness.

How to Make Maple roasted carrots with cranberries

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Set your oven to 170° C / 340° F if using fan forced (or 190° C / 375° F without). Lining a baking tray (or two smaller ones) with baking paper will make cleanup easier later on!

Step 2: Prepare the Carrots

Trim off the green tops from the carrots and cut each carrot lengthwise into halves. This helps them cook evenly while allowing those delicious flavors to penetrate.

Step 3: Coat the Cranberries

In a small bowl, combine the cranberries with 1 tablespoon of maple syrup and mix in the orange zest. This step infuses the cranberries with sweetness and citrus notes that brighten up their flavor!

Step 4: Mix Your Marinade

In another bowl, whisk together the olive oil, three tablespoons of maple syrup, harissa paste, thyme leaves (about one tablespoon), garlic, salt, and black pepper. This marinade will create a sweet-spicy glaze that brings all the ingredients together.

Step 5: Coat & Arrange

Coat the dry carrot halves in your marinade mixture. Place them spaced out on your prepared baking tray. If you have space on one tray, place the coated cranberries at the other 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 ensuring that those juicy cranberries become soft and jammy. If needed, brush any leftover marinade on halfway through roasting.

Step 7: Toast Your Nuts

Lightly toast almond flakes in a hot pan until they’re golden brown and fragrant. This adds crunchiness and enhances their nutty flavor!

Step 8: Serve It Up

Once done roasting, transfer your beautiful Maple roasted carrots and cranberries onto a serving platter. Sprinkle toasted almonds on top along with fresh thyme or finely chopped carrot tops for garnish. Enjoy this vibrant dish at your next meal!

Pro Tips for Making Maple Roasted Carrots with Cranberries

Making the perfect maple roasted carrots with cranberries is all about a few simple tricks that can elevate your dish. Here are some pro tips to ensure your side dish shines!

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Fresh, young carrots and plump cranberries will give your dish vibrant colors and flavors. Fresh produce not only tastes better but also enhances the overall presentation.
• Adjust Harissa to Your Taste: Harissa paste can vary in spiciness, so start with a small amount and taste as you go. This way, you can control the heat level and make sure it complements rather than overwhelms the sweetness of the maple syrup.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Tray: Spacing out your carrots on the baking tray allows them to roast evenly and caramelize beautifully. If they’re too close together, they might steam instead of roast, losing that lovely texture.
• Add a Splash of Citrus: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving can brighten up the flavors even more! The acidity cuts through the sweetness and adds a refreshing twist.
• Experiment with Herbs: While thyme is wonderful, feel free to experiment with other herbs like rosemary or parsley. Each herb brings its own unique flavor profile that can complement this dish beautifully.

How to Serve Maple Roasted Carrots with Cranberries

Presenting your maple roasted carrots with cranberries in an appealing way can make your meal feel special. Here are some ideas for how to serve this delightful dish!

Garnishes

• Toasted Almonds: Sprinkle additional toasted almond flakes on top for extra crunch and nutty flavor.
• Fresh Herbs: Add a few sprigs of fresh thyme or finely chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
• Zest Finish: Grate a bit more orange zest over the top just before serving for an aromatic touch that brightens up the dish.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette complements the sweetness of the carrots while adding a nutritious element.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The slight bitterness of roasted Brussels sprouts pairs beautifully with sweet maple flavors, creating balance on your plate.
• Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Fluffy mashed potatoes made with olive oil and garlic create a comforting base that works well alongside these sweet carrots.
• Green Bean Almondine: Sautéed green beans tossed with lemon juice and almond slices bring a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the softness of roasted carrots.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re ready to impress your friends and family with this delicious side dish at any gathering! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This recipe for maple roasted carrots with cranberries is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time, ensuring delicious flavors are ready when you need them.

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 days.

Freezing

• Let the dish cool completely before freezing.
• Place the carrots and cranberries in a freezer-safe container, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a preheated oven at 180° C / 350° F for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can reheat in a microwave on medium power, checking frequently to avoid overheating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making maple roasted carrots with cranberries.

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

Yes! Frozen cranberries can be used, but they may release more moisture during roasting. Adjust cooking time as needed.

How do I choose the best carrots for maple roasted carrots with cranberries?

Look for firm, vibrant-colored young carrots. They should feel heavy for their size and have smooth skin without blemishes.

Can I substitute the harissa paste in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can use any spicy paste or sauce you prefer, such as sriracha or chili garlic sauce. Adjust the amount based on your spice preference.

Are maple roasted carrots with cranberries suitable for a vegan diet?

Yes! This recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free, making it a great option for various diets.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful maple roasted carrots with cranberries! They bring warmth and joy to any meal, especially during festive gatherings. Their vibrant flavors and beautiful presentation make them a standout side dish that everyone will love. Happy cooking!