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 are not only visually stunning but also incredibly tasty. The sweetness of the maple syrup pairs beautifully with the tartness of fresh cranberries, creating a dish that will impress your family and friends.

This recipe is perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive holiday gathering. Trust me, once you taste these roasted carrots, they might just become your new favorite addition to the table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With simple steps and minimal prep time, you’ll have a delicious side dish ready in no time.
• Naturally vegan and gluten-free: Everyone can enjoy this dish without worrying about dietary restrictions.
• Perfect for gatherings: These maple roasted carrots with cranberries bring color and flavor that elevate any meal, especially during the holidays.
• Make-ahead option: You can prepare the marinade earlier in the day and roast just before serving.
• Flavor-packed: The combination of sweet maple syrup, earthy thyme, and zesty orange makes these carrots truly special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create these mouthwatering maple roasted carrots with cranberries. You probably have most of them already in your kitchen! Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Carrots

• 500 g / 1.1 lb / 17 oz medium young carrots, scrubbed clean
• 100 g / 3.5 oz fresh cranberries
• 60 ml / ¼ cup maple syrup, divided
• zest of ½ large orange
• 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
• 20 g / ¼ cup almond flakes

Variations

This recipe is flexible and allows for some fun variations! Feel free to get creative while keeping that delicious flavor intact.

• Add more veggies: Toss in other root vegetables like parsnips or sweet potatoes for added variety.
• Sweeten it up: If you’re a fan of sweeter dishes, add an extra drizzle of maple syrup before serving.
• Spice it up: Experiment with different spices like cumin or smoked paprika for a unique twist.
• Nuts galore: Swap almond flakes for walnuts or pecans for added crunch and 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) and line one large baking tray (or two smaller ones) with baking paper. Preheating ensures even cooking, allowing those beautiful flavors to meld perfectly as they roast.

Step 2: Prep the Carrots

Trim the green tops off the carrots and cut them in half lengthwise. You can save those tops for pesto or soups! Cutting them this way allows for a nice caramelization on the edges while keeping them tender inside.

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 will give them a lovely sweet-tart flavor as they roast, enhancing their natural goodness.

Step 4: Mix the Marinade

In another bowl, combine olive oil, 3 tablespoons of maple syrup, harissa paste, thyme leaves (about 1 tablespoon), garlic, salt, and black pepper. Combining these ingredients creates a flavorful marinade that will infuse into the carrots as they roast.

Step 5: Coat and Arrange

Coat dry carrots in the maple and harissa mixture (don’t forget to save any leftovers!). Spread them out on your baking tray. If there’s room, place cranberries at one end; otherwise, use two trays. Spacing them out helps everything roast evenly!

Step 6: Roast Away!

Roast everything for about 20-25 minutes until the carrots are tender and slightly caramelized while cranberries become soft and jammy. Keep an eye on those cranberries; if they finish cooking early, remove them from the tray so they don’t overcook!

Step 7: Toast Those Almonds

In a hot pan, lightly toast your almond flakes until they’re golden brown and fragrant. This step adds an irresistible crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender veggies.

Step 8: Serve It Up!

Place your gorgeous roasted carrots and cranberries on a large serving platter. Sprinkle with toasted almonds and some fresh thyme or finely chopped carrot tops—but go easy on those carrot tops since they can be bitter!

And there you have it! A stunning plate of maple roasted carrots with cranberries that are sure to steal the show at any meal! 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 tips can elevate your dish to the next level!

• Choose fresh ingredients: Using fresh and vibrant carrots and cranberries will enhance the flavors and textures of the dish, making it more enjoyable for everyone at the table.

• Adjust harissa to taste: Harissa paste can vary in heat; start with less if you’re unsure. You can always add more later, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the dish without overwhelming spice.

• Don’t overcrowd the tray: Give your carrots space on the baking tray to ensure they roast evenly and achieve that beautiful caramelization. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of roasting.

• Baste for extra flavor: If you have any leftover marinade, use it to baste the carrots halfway through cooking. This adds extra depth of flavor and helps them shine even brighter!

• Experiment with herbs: While thyme adds a lovely aroma, don’t hesitate to try other herbs like rosemary or parsley. They can bring new dimensions to the dish depending on your preference.

How to Serve Maple Roasted Carrots with Cranberries

Presenting your maple roasted carrots with cranberries beautifully will make them even more inviting! Here are some ideas for serving this delightful side dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of finely chopped parsley or additional thyme adds a pop of color and freshness.
• Citrus zest: A bit more orange zest on top gives a lovely aroma and enhances the citrus notes in the dish.
• Crumbled nuts: Adding a few more almond flakes or even walnuts can provide an extra crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft roasted vegetables.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa salad: A refreshing quinoa salad tossed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and lemon vinaigrette complements the sweetness of the carrots perfectly while adding protein.
• Roasted Brussels sprouts: These provide a savory crunch that pairs nicely with the sweet maple flavors, creating a wonderful balance on your plate.
• Creamy mashed potatoes: The creaminess of mashed potatoes provides a comforting contrast to the textured carrots, making for a hearty meal.
• Leafy green salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, avocado, and a light vinaigrette creates a refreshing counterpart that brightens up your dinner spread.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your maple roasted carrots with cranberries will not only taste delicious but also look stunning on your holiday table! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

Preparing maple roasted carrots with cranberries ahead of time is a fantastic way to save yourself some stress during busy meal prep days. These vibrant and flavorful vegetables hold up well, making them perfect for both immediate enjoyment and future meals.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the roasted carrots and cranberries to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3-4 days.
• For best flavor, enjoy within the first couple of days.

Freezing

• To freeze, place the cooled dish in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Lay flat in the freezer for easy storage.
• Use within 2-3 months for optimal taste; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 180° C / 350° F.
• Spread the leftovers on a baking sheet and reheat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave them in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated.

FAQs

If you have questions about making maple roasted carrots with cranberries, you’re in the right place!

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

Yes! Frozen cranberries can be used in this recipe. Just toss them directly onto the baking tray without thawing. They may release more liquid during roasting, so adjust cooking time as needed.

How do I make maple roasted carrots with cranberries spicier?

If you’re looking to add some heat to your maple roasted carrots with cranberries, consider increasing the amount of harissa paste or adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to your marinade.

What can I serve with maple roasted carrots with cranberries?

These delightful roasted veggies pair wonderfully with grain dishes like quinoa or rice, alongside protein sources like chickpeas or lentils. They also make a stunning side for festive meals!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing these delicious maple roasted carrots with cranberries! Their sweet and tangy flavors are sure to brighten up any meal, especially during festive gatherings. Enjoy every bite and don’t hesitate to share this recipe with friends and family! Happy cooking!