Maple glazed roasted carrots offer a sweet, earthy flavor that elevates any meal. This simple yet delightful side dish highlights the natural sweetness of the carrots, enhanced by the rich flavor of maple syrup and a hint of olive oil. Perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy dinner at home, this recipe is sure to impress family and friends alike.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 130
- Protein: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fat: 6g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
Why Make This Maple Glazed Roasted Carrots
These maple glazed roasted carrots are a fantastic way to bring a burst of color and flavor to your table. Roasting carrots with maple syrup caramelizes their natural sugars, creating a deliciously sweet side that balances well with savory dishes. This recipe is not only easy to make but also visually appealing and packed with nutrients, making it a great choice for both everyday meals and special occasions.
How to Make Maple Glazed Roasted Carrots
Follow these simple steps to create a tasty dish that you and your guests will love.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound carrots, peeled and cut into sticks
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions:
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Step 1: Preparation
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). This temperature is perfect for roasting carrots, ensuring they become tender and caramelized.
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Step 2: Mixing
In a large bowl, combine the peeled and cut carrot sticks with maple syrup, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss until the carrots are evenly coated in the flavorful mixture.
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Step 3: Cooking
Spread the carrots in a single layer on a baking sheet. This ensures they roast evenly and become beautifully caramelized. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through to promote even cooking.
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Step 4: Finishing
Once the carrots are tender and caramelized, remove them from the oven. For an extra touch of color and freshness, garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
How to Serve Maple Glazed Roasted Carrots
These roasted carrots make a fantastic side dish for roasted meats, fish, or vegetarian mains. They add a sweet contrast to savory flavors, making them ideal for holiday dinners or family gatherings. You can also serve them alongside grains like quinoa or rice for a complete meal.
How to Store Maple Glazed Roasted Carrots
If you have leftovers (though they may be hard to resist!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you can use the microwave for quick reheating.
Expert Tips for Perfect Maple Glazed Roasted Carrots
- For a more intense flavor, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of balsamic vinegar to the mix before roasting.
- Make sure to evenly cut your carrots to ensure they cook at the same rate.
- If you want to experiment, try mixing in other vegetables like parsnips or sweet potatoes for varied flavors and textures.
Delicious Variations
- Maple-Spicy Carrots: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to introduce some heat alongside the sweetness.
- Honey Glazed Carrots: Substitute maple syrup with honey for a different but equally delightful flavor.
- Herbed Carrots: Mix in some dried thyme or rosemary before roasting for an aromatic twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I use baby carrots instead of regular carrots?
Yes, baby carrots work well; however, you won’t need to peel them. Just toss them in the maple syrup and oil mixture as you would with regular carrots. -
What if I don’t have maple syrup?
You can substitute with honey or agave syrup, but the flavor profile will change slightly. -
Can I make these in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the carrots and toss them in the syrup and oil mixture a few hours ahead of time, then roast just before serving. -
What else can I add to this dish?
Consider adding nuts like pecans or walnuts for crunch, or some citrus zest for a refreshing flavor. -
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free making them suitable for gluten-free diets.
Conclusion
These maple glazed roasted carrots are an easy and satisfying side dish that will brighten your dinner table. With a touch of sweetness and a caramelized finish, they are a fantastic way to showcase the lovely flavors of carrots. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try—you and your loved ones will be rewarded with delightful flavors and a beautiful dish that’s sure to become a favorite!
