Maple-Mustard Roasted Carrots

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 30 min
🍽 Serves: 4
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Maple-Mustard Roasted Carrots are a delightful twist on a classic side dish. The sweet and tangy glaze elevates simple carrots into something truly special. Perfect for fall, these carrots fit beautifully into any holiday spread or weeknight dinner.

Ingredients for Maple-Mustard Roasted Carrots

Carrots are the star of this dish, providing a natural sweetness and lovely color. Choosing fresh, firm carrots will ensure the best texture.

The olive oil helps to roast the carrots evenly, adding a subtle richness.

Maple syrup brings sweetness and depth, making the glaze delightfully sticky and flavorful.

Dijon mustard adds a punch of tanginess that complements the sweetness of the maple syrup perfectly.

Apple cider vinegar lends an extra layer of acidity, brightening the overall flavor profile.

Salt and black pepper are essential for seasoning, enhancing the natural flavors of the carrots and the glaze.

Finally, a sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness to the finished dish.

Tips & Tricks

  • For even cooking, try to cut the carrot sticks to a uniform size.
  • If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze.
  • Use parchment paper to make cleanup a breeze and to prevent the glaze from sticking to the baking sheet.

Serving Suggestions

These Maple-Mustard Roasted Carrots pair beautifully with roasted chicken or grilled salmon. For a vegetarian option, serve them alongside a hearty grain salad or a creamy risotto. They're also a great addition to a holiday table, complementing traditional dishes like turkey or ham.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use baby carrots instead?
Yes, baby carrots work well! Just adjust the roasting time as they may cook a bit faster.
What if I don't have maple syrup?
You can substitute honey or agave syrup, though the flavor will vary slightly.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.

Maple-Mustard Roasted Carrots Recipe Walkthrough

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is ideal for roasting, ensuring the carrots become tender and caramelized.

In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, salt, and black pepper. This mixture is your flavorful glaze, so ensure it's well combined.

Add the peeled and cut carrot sticks to the bowl. Toss them with the glaze until every piece is thoroughly coated. This step ensures even roasting and flavor distribution.

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. Spread the carrots in a single layer on the prepared sheet, giving them space to roast rather than steam.

Roast the carrots in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through. This helps them cook evenly and develop those delicious caramelized edges.

Once the carrots are tender and golden, remove them from the oven. Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • A quick and easy side dish that looks and tastes gourmet.
  • The perfect balance of sweet maple and tangy mustard.
  • Uses everyday ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.
  • Caramelized edges make these carrots irresistibly tasty.
  • Easy to customize with your favorite herbs or spices.

Ingredients

2 lbs carrots, peeled and cut into sticks
2 tbsp olive oil
3 tbsp maple syrup
2 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add carrot sticks to the bowl and toss to coat evenly.
4. Spread the carrots in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized, stirring halfway through.
6. Remove from oven and transfer to a serving dish.
7. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

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