Maple Dijon Roasted Carrots

There’s something about roasted carrots that captivates both the eye and the palate. When you combine the natural sweetness of carrots with the rich flavors of maple syrup and the tangy zest of Dijon mustard, you create a dish that’s not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. These Maple Dijon Roasted Carrots are a delightful side dish that can elevate any meal, whether it’s a weekday dinner or a special occasion. With just a handful of ingredients and a bit of time in the oven, you’ll have a stunning and tasty addition to your table.

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

This recipe is a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors. The maple syrup enhances the natural sweetness of the baby carrots, while the Dijon mustard adds a delightful kick. Here are a few reasons to love this dish:

• Quick and Easy: Simple preparation and minimal cooking time!
• Healthy and Nutritious: Carrots are packed with vitamins and fiber.
• Versatile: Pairs well with a variety of main dishes.
• Gorgeous Presentation: The vibrant colors make your plate pop.

What Goes In

To make these Maple Dijon Roasted Carrots, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 lb (500g) baby carrots
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• 3 tablespoons maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon grainy Dijon mustard
• Salt, to taste
• Ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 teaspoons finely chopped parsley leaves, for garnish

Before You Start: Equipment

Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this dish:

• Baking Sheet: A large baking sheet to roast the carrots evenly.
• Mixing Bowl: To combine the ingredients before roasting.
• Spatula or Tongs: For tossing the carrots to ensure even coating.

Maple Dijon Roasted Carrots — Do This Next

Follow these simple steps to create your Maple Dijon Roasted Carrots:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your carrots roast perfectly, enhancing their natural sweetness.

Step 2: Prepare the Carrots

Wash the baby carrots thoroughly. If they are large, you might want to cut them in half lengthwise to ensure even cooking.

Step 3: Mix the Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, maple syrup, and grainy Dijon mustard. Stir until well combined. Add salt and ground black pepper to taste.

Step 4: Coat the Carrots

Add the washed baby carrots to the bowl and toss them in the maple Dijon mixture until they are evenly coated.

Step 5: Roast the Carrots

Spread the coated carrots in a single layer on the baking sheet. Make sure they are not overcrowded, as this can lead to steaming instead of roasting.

Step 6: Bake

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 20-25 minutes. Halfway through, give the carrots a good toss to ensure they caramelize evenly.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once the carrots are tender and caramelized, remove them from the oven. Sprinkle the finely chopped parsley leaves on top for a fresh finish. Serve immediately and enjoy the flavors!

What to Use Instead

If you don’t have all the ingredients on hand, here are some alternatives:

• Olive Oil: You can substitute melted butter with olive oil for a dairy-free option.
• Honey: Use honey in place of maple syrup if you prefer a different sweetener.
• Yellow Mustard: If you don’t have grainy Dijon mustard, yellow mustard can be used as a substitute.

Avoid These Mistakes

To ensure your Maple Dijon Roasted Carrots come out perfectly, keep these tips in mind:

• Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet to prevent steaming.
• Don’t skip the tossing halfway through; it helps with even roasting.
• Be careful with salt; taste the carrot mixture before adding more.

Store, Freeze & Reheat

Here’s how to keep your leftover Maple Dijon Roasted Carrots:

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’d like to freeze them, spread the roasted carrots on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.

Common Questions

Can I use regular carrots instead of baby carrots?

Absolutely! Regular carrots can be cut into sticks or rounds to achieve a similar cooking time and texture.

How can I make this recipe vegan?

Simply replace the melted butter with olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative, and you have a delicious vegan side dish!

What dishes pair well with Maple Dijon Roasted Carrots?

These carrots make a fantastic side for roasted chicken, grilled steak, or a hearty vegetarian grain bowl.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the carrots and coat them in the mixture a few hours ahead and store them in the refrigerator until you are ready to roast.

Desserts to Finish

Complete your meal with these delightful dessert ideas:

• Maple Pecan Pie
• Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
• Apple Crisp with Oat Topping

Save & Share

If you enjoyed this recipe for Maple Dijon Roasted Carrots, don’t forget to save it for later and share it with your friends and family!

The beauty of cooking is in sharing delicious moments around the table. These roasted carrots are sure to become a favorite in your household and a hit at gatherings. Whether you’re looking for a simple side dish to complement dinner or an impressive addition to a festive feast, this recipe fits the bill perfectly. Happy cooking!