Maple Roasted Carrots with Cranberries and Harissa brings an exciting twist to a classic side dish. This vibrant and flavorful recipe combines the natural sweetness of carrots and maple syrup with tart cranberries and a hint of spicy harissa. The addition of orange zest and thyme elevates the taste profile, making it a perfect side for any festive meal, especially during the fall season.

Why You’ll Love This Maple Roasted Carrots with

This dish is not just about taste; it’s an experience. Here are several reasons to love this recipe:

**Sweet and Savory Flavor**: The mix of maple syrup and harissa offers a delightful balance of sweetness and spice.
**Colorful Presentation**: The vibrant hues of roasted carrots and cranberries make for an appealing plate.
**Healthy Side Dish**: Rich in nutrients, carrots are a great addition to your diet.
**Quick and Easy**: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
**Perfect for Celebrations**: A fantastic addition to your Thanksgiving or holiday table, impressing friends and family.
**Versatile Recipe**: This dish can be easily adapted to suit vegan diets or spice preferences.

Ingredients for Maple Roasted Carrots with

Gather these items:

500 g / 1.1 lb medium young carrots, scrubbed clean
100 g / 3.5 oz fresh cranberries
Zest of ½ large orange
A few sprigs of thyme or lemon thyme
1 garlic clove, finely grated
60 ml / ¼ cup maple syrup, divided
30 ml / 2 tbsp olive oil
3 tsp harissa paste (adjust to taste)
½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
Black pepper, to serve
20 g / ¼ cup almond flakes

How to Make Maple Roasted Carrots with Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F) to ensure it’s hot enough for roasting the carrots evenly and developing a nice caramelization.
Step 2: In a bowl, mix half of the maple syrup (30 ml), olive oil, harissa paste, orange zest, grated garlic, and salt until well combined.
Step 3: Add the scrubbed carrots to the bowl with the glaze and toss thoroughly so each carrot is well coated.
Step 4: Spread the coated carrots on a roasting tray in a single layer, ensuring they have enough space to roast properly.
Step 5: Roast the carrots in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, allowing them to start softening and caramelizing.
Step 6: After 20 minutes, remove the tray and scatter the fresh cranberries evenly over the carrots. Drizzle the remaining 30 ml of maple syrup on top for added sweetness.
Step 7: Roast for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the carrots are tender and golden and the cranberries have softened and slightly burst.
Step 8: Five minutes before the end of roasting, sprinkle the thyme sprigs and almond flakes over the tray to toast lightly and impart flavor.
Step 9: Once out of the oven, season with black pepper to taste and remove thyme sprigs before serving.

Pro Tips for the Best Maple Roasted Carrots with

Keep these in mind:

This dish makes a perfect side for fall or holiday meals.
Adjust the harissa paste according to your spice preference.
Use fresh thyme or lemon thyme for added flavor.
For a more intense flavor, consider marinating the carrots overnight.
This method is excellent for other root vegetables, too, such as parsnips and sweet potatoes.

Best Ways to Serve Maple Roasted Carrots with

Serve this dish as a stunning side to your main course. Here are a few ideas:

Pair it with roasted chicken or turkey for a beautiful holiday meal.
Serve alongside a hearty grain salad for a nutritious vegetarian option.
Consider adding it to a festive buffet spread to impress your guests.

How to Store and Reheat Maple Roasted Carrots with

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes. This will keep them warm without losing that delightful roasted texture.

Frequently Asked Questions About Maple Roasted Carrots with

What’s the secret to perfect Maple Roasted Carrots with?

The secret lies in the balance of flavors! Using fresh ingredients and adjusting the harissa paste to your spice preference enhances the overall taste. The combination of sweet maple syrup and savory garlic is key to achieving a delightful flavor profile.

Can I make Maple Roasted Carrots with ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the carrots and glaze a day ahead, then roast them just before serving. This makes them a convenient option for holiday meals or gatherings.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Maple Roasted Carrots with?

To avoid mushy carrots, ensure they are cut evenly and not overcrowded on the roasting tray. Also, monitor the roasting time closely to prevent burning and to achieve the perfect caramelization.

Variations of Maple Roasted Carrots with You Can Try

Here are some fun variations to customize your dish:

For a spicier kick, add cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the glaze.
Experiment with different herbs, such as rosemary or sage, to change up the flavor.
Try adding nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and nutrition.
For a vegan twist, replace the maple syrup with agave nectar or date syrup.

Maple Roasted Carrots with Cranberries: 5 Flavorful Secrets - Maple Roasted Carrots with - main visual representation

Incredible homemade Maple Roasted Carrots with ready in minutes

For more tips on preparing delicious side dishes, check out our article on healthy side dishes.

For more information on the health benefits of carrots, visit Healthline.

To learn more about the versatility of harissa, check out this Serious Eats article.