Maple Dijon Roasted Carrots
A delicious side dish featuring roasted carrots glazed with a unique blend of maple syrup and Dijon mustard, sure to impress at any meal.
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 1 lb carrots, peeled and cut into sticks or left whole if small Use fresh carrots for the best flavor and texture.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 ½ tablespoons pure maple syrup Can be substituted with honey or agave syrup.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard Adjust to taste.
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt Adjust to taste.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme or 1 teaspoon fresh thyme Use fresh thyme for more flavor.
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes Optional, for heat.
- Chopped fresh parsley For garnish.
- Crumbled feta or goat cheese Optional, for garnish.
- Toasted nuts (walnuts, pecans, or almonds) Optional, for garnish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with oil to prevent sticking.
- If using large carrots, peel them and cut them into even-sized sticks for faster cooking. If using baby carrots or thin carrots, you can leave them whole.
Making the Maple Dijon Glaze
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, balsamic vinegar, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Coating and Roasting
- Place the carrots in a large mixing bowl and pour the maple Dijon glaze over them. Toss well to ensure each carrot is evenly coated.
- Spread the coated carrots in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Avoid crowding them to ensure even roasting and caramelization.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping the carrots halfway through, until they are tender and slightly caramelized. If you prefer a deeper golden-brown color, roast them for an additional 5 minutes.
Garnishing and Serving
- Remove the carrots from the oven and transfer them to a serving dish. Garnish with chopped parsley, crumbled cheese, or toasted nuts for extra flavor and texture. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
You can store leftover roasted carrots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. For a different take, consider adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving or experimenting with different herbs, such as rosemary or basil.