Maple roasted carrots with cranberries

If you’re looking for a side dish that’s both vibrant and packed with flavor, you’ve come to the right place! Maple roasted carrots with cranberries are not only stunning to look at but also incredibly easy to whip up. This recipe brings together the earthiness of roasted carrots and the tartness of cranberries, all drizzled with sweet maple syrup. It’s a delightful addition to your dinner table, whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or just wanting to treat your family on a busy weeknight.

What I love most about this dish is how it captures the essence of autumn with its warm flavors and colors. Plus, it’s naturally vegan and gluten-free, making it suitable for various dietary needs. So, gather around; let me share this beloved recipe with you!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious side ready in no time.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet maple syrup, tangy cranberries, and savory spices creates a taste sensation.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s Thanksgiving or a cozy family dinner, this dish fits right in!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep the ingredients ahead of time and roast them fresh when you’re ready to serve.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will enjoy these colorful veggies!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making maple roasted carrots with cranberries is all about using simple, wholesome ingredients. You might already have many of these in your kitchen! Here’s what you’ll need:

For the 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 (strength varies!)
• 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 Garnishing

• a few sprigs of thyme or lemon thyme
• 1 garlic clove, finely grated
• 20 g / ¼ cup almond flakes

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your taste preferences.

• Add Other Veggies: Toss in some parsnips or sweet potatoes for added sweetness and variety.
• Spice it Up: If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for some heat.
• Nut Alternatives: Swap out almond flakes for walnuts or pecans if you prefer something different.
• Dried Fruits: Add raisins or dried cherries along with the cranberries for another layer of flavor.

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 your baking tray (or two smaller ones) with baking paper makes cleanup easier later!

Step 2: Prepare the Carrots

Trim the green tops off the carrots—don’t throw them away! They can be used to make pesto or added to soups. Cut each carrot in half lengthwise so they roast evenly.

Step 3: Coat the Cranberries

In a small bowl, coat the cranberries in 1 tablespoon of maple syrup and mix in the orange zest. This step enhances their flavor and helps them become jammy as they roast.

Step 4: Mix the Marinade

In another bowl, combine olive oil, three tablespoons of maple syrup, harissa paste, thyme leaves (about one tablespoon), garlic, salt, and a good pinch of black pepper. This marinade adds depth and richness to our carrots.

Step 5: Prepare for Roasting

Coat your dry carrots in the maple and harissa mixture—make sure they’re well-covered! Space them out on your lined baking tray. If you have room on one tray, place cranberries at the other end; otherwise, use two separate trays.

Step 6: Roast Them Up!

Roast everything for about 20-25 minutes until your carrots are tender with slightly caramelized edges and your cranberries are soft. If your cranberries finish first, remove them from the tray quietly so they don’t overcook!

Step 7: Toast Some Nuts

While those veggies are roasting away, toast almond flakes in a hot pan until lightly browned and fragrant. This adds an extra crunch that contrasts beautifully with our tender veggies.

Step 8: Serve It All Together

Once everything is roasted perfectly, place your vibrant carrots and cranberries on a large serving platter. Sprinkle toasted almonds on top along with fresh thyme or finely chopped carrot tops—just go easy on those tops as they can be a bit bitter!

And voilà! You have yourself a stunning dish of maple roasted carrots with cranberries that’s perfect for sharing around your dinner table! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Maple Roasted Carrots with Cranberries

These maple roasted carrots with cranberries are sure to impress, and with a few simple tips, you can make them even more delightful!

• Choose fresh ingredients – Using fresh carrots and cranberries will enhance the flavors and textures of your dish, ensuring that every bite is vibrant and delicious.
• Adjust the harissa paste – Since harissa can vary in strength, start with a smaller amount if you’re unsure. This allows you to control the heat level according to your taste preferences.
• Use parchment paper – Lining your baking tray with parchment paper prevents sticking and makes for easier cleanup. Plus, it helps the carrots caramelize beautifully without burning.
• Don’t overcrowd the tray – Give your carrots enough space on the baking tray to roast evenly. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of roasting, which affects their texture and flavor.
• Experiment with herbs – While thyme adds a lovely aroma, feel free to try other herbs like rosemary or sage for a different twist. Fresh herbs can elevate the dish and provide additional layers of flavor.

How to Serve Maple Roasted Carrots with Cranberries

Presenting your maple roasted carrots with cranberries beautifully can make the experience even more enjoyable. Here are some ideas to elevate your serving game!

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs – A sprinkle of chopped fresh thyme or parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the dish perfectly.
• Citrus zest – A little extra orange zest on top can brighten up the flavors even more, giving a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the carrots and cranberries.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa salad – A light quinoa salad with diced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing balance to the sweet flavors of the carrots.
• Roasted Brussels sprouts – Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts tossed in olive oil and sea salt provide a savory complement that pairs well with the sweetness of your main dish.
• Creamy mashed potatoes – Smooth mashed potatoes made with plant-based milk and olive oil create a comforting side that rounds out the meal beautifully.
• Green bean almondine – Crisp-tender green beans sautéed with garlic and topped with toasted almonds add an elegant touch while echoing the nutty flavors in your carrot dish.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your maple roasted carrots with cranberries will shine as a centerpiece on any table! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Maple Roasted Carrots with Cranberries recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare it in advance, making it a fantastic addition to your weekly meals or holiday gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the roasted carrots and cranberries to cool completely.
• Transfer them to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator.
• They will keep well for about 3-5 days.

Freezing

• For longer storage, you can freeze the roasted carrots and cranberries.
• Place them in freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• To reheat, simply place the leftovers in a preheated oven at 180°C / 350°F until warmed through (about 10-15 minutes).
• Alternatively, you can microwave them in short intervals until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delicious dish!

Can I make maple roasted carrots with cranberries ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dish in advance, store it in the fridge, and simply reheat when you’re ready to serve.

What are some variations for maple roasted carrots with cranberries?

You can add different spices like cinnamon or ginger for a warm twist. Adding nuts like walnuts or pecans can also enhance the texture and flavor!

Are maple roasted carrots with cranberries suitable for a gluten-free diet?

Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those following gluten-free diets.

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

Feel free to modify the amount of maple syrup based on your taste preferences. You can also use agave syrup or honey as alternatives.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing these Maple Roasted Carrots with Cranberries! They not only bring vibrant colors to your table but also delicious flavors that celebrate the season. Whether for a holiday feast or a simple family dinner, this dish is sure to impress. Happy cooking, and don’t hesitate to share your experiences with me—I’d love to hear how it turned out!