Maple Dijon Roasted Carrots and Apples

Maple Dijon Roasted Carrots and Apples are a delightful addition to any meal, offering a perfect blend of sweetness and tanginess. This side dish is not only visually appealing but also incredibly versatile, making it suitable for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or casual barbecues. The caramelized exterior and soft interior create a satisfying texture that pairs wonderfully with a variety of main courses.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious dish effortlessly.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of maple syrup and Dijon mustard creates a unique flavor profile that stands out.
• Versatile Pairing: These roasted carrots and apples complement many different meals, from roasted chicken to hearty grain bowls.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with nutrients from fresh vegetables and fruits, this recipe is both tasty and health-conscious.
• Vegan-Friendly: Suitable for various diets, making it an inclusive option for gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will streamline your preparation.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowl
• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Ensures even roasting and maximizes caramelization for rich flavors.
• Mixing bowl: Allows you to combine ingredients thoroughly for a well-coated mixture.
• Chef’s knife: Provides precision when chopping vegetables and fruits, ensuring even cooking.
• Whisk: Helps blend the dressing ingredients smoothly for optimal flavor distribution.

Ingredients

For the Vegetable Base

• 4 large carrots (about 1 pound)
• 3 large apples (about 1 pound)
• 1 onion
• 5 cloves garlic (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)

For the Glaze

• ¼ cup olive oil (or aquafaba)
• ¼ cup maple syrup
• 3 tablespoons stone ground dijon mustard
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon thyme

How to Make Maple Dijon Roasted Carrots and Apples

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

• Core the apples, then chop them into ½” cubes.
• Chop the carrots on the bias into ¼” thick slices.
• Dice the onion into ½” pieces.
• Finely chop the garlic.

Step 2: Make the Glaze

• In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, sea salt, black pepper, and thyme until smooth.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

• Add the chopped carrots, apples, onions, and garlic to the bowl. Toss everything together to ensure all pieces are well-coated with the glaze.

Step 4: Roast in the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
• Spread the carrot mixture evenly on a baking sheet.
• Roast for 15 minutes until one side begins to brown. Flip everything over to roast the other side.

Step 5: Finish Cooking

• Continue roasting for another 10 to 15 minutes. Check if the carrots are tender when pierced with a fork and if the glaze has caramelized slightly.

Now enjoy your Maple Dijon Roasted Carrots and Apples as a vibrant side dish that’s sure to impress!

How to Serve Maple Dijon Roasted Carrots and Apples

Serving Maple Dijon Roasted Carrots and Apples can elevate any meal with their vibrant colors and enticing flavors. These delicious roasted vegetables pair well with a variety of dishes, making them a versatile side option.

Pair with Grilled Chicken

• Juicy grilled chicken complements the sweet and tangy notes of the carrots and apples, creating a balanced plate.

Serve with Quinoa Salad

• A refreshing quinoa salad adds a nutty flavor that contrasts nicely with the glazed carrots and apples, enhancing the meal’s overall texture.

Accompany with Lentil Stew

• The hearty nature of lentil stew provides a warm, comforting backdrop to the vibrant flavors of the roasted dish.

Add to a Cheese Platter

• Include roasted carrots and apples on a cheese platter for an unexpected twist that harmonizes beautifully with various cheeses.

Mix into Tacos

• Use as a filling in soft tortillas for a unique vegetarian taco option that bursts with flavor.

Enjoy as Leftovers

• Maple Dijon Roasted Carrots and Apples can also be enjoyed cold in salads or wraps, making them perfect for meal prep.

How to Perfect Maple Dijon Roasted Carrots and Apples

To achieve the best results when making Maple Dijon Roasted Carrots and Apples, consider these helpful tips.

• Cut uniform pieces: Ensure all vegetables are cut into similar sizes for even cooking and consistent caramelization.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic, thyme, and seasonal apples will enhance the flavors significantly.
• Preheat your oven: A fully preheated oven helps achieve that desired caramelization on the vegetables.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Spacing out the veggies allows them to roast properly instead of steaming, resulting in better texture.
• Adjust sweetness: If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the maple syrup slightly without compromising flavor.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add other herbs or spices like rosemary or cayenne pepper for an extra kick.

Best Side Dishes for Maple Dijon Roasted Carrots and Apples

Maple Dijon Roasted Carrots and Apples make an excellent accompaniment to many main courses. Here are some side dishes that pair perfectly:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting side that complements roasted vegetables beautifully.
2. Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Tossed in olive oil until crispy, Brussels sprouts add crunchiness that contrasts nicely with the softness of the roasted dish.
3. Brown Rice Pilaf: A nutty brown rice pilaf flavored with herbs provides a wholesome base that balances out sweet flavors.
4. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus offers freshness that brightens your plate while allowing other flavors to shine through.
5. Cauliflower Gratin: This cheesy dish adds richness to your meal, creating a delightful contrast between creamy textures and sweet notes from the carrots and apples.
6. Spinach Salad: A simple spinach salad dressed in vinaigrette brings brightness and acidity to balance the sweetness of the roasted items.
7. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries add an extra layer of sweetness while providing a crunchy texture alongside your main dish.
8. Roasted Beet Salad: Earthy roasted beets mixed with greens add color and depth of flavor, enhancing your dining experience overall.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Maple Dijon Roasted Carrots and Apples, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some to watch out for:

• Ignoring the size of your cuts: Cutting carrots and apples too large may result in uneven cooking. Ensure they are all around ½” thick for consistent roasting.
• Overcrowding the baking sheet: If you pile ingredients too closely together, they will steam instead of roast. Spread them out in a single layer for optimal caramelization.
• Not preheating the oven: Skipping this step can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven to the desired temperature before placing your dish inside.
• Neglecting to flip the mixture: For even browning, remember to stir or flip the vegetables halfway through roasting. This helps achieve that delicious caramelized effect.
• Forgetting to taste and adjust seasoning: Seasonings can vary based on personal preference. Taste your mixture before roasting and adjust salt and pepper as needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Maple Dijon Roasted Carrots and Apples

• Freeze in a tightly sealed container or freezer bag.
• They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Maple Dijon Roasted Carrots and Apples

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Maple Dijon Roasted Carrots and Apples?

Maple Dijon Roasted Carrots and Apples are a flavorful side dish made by roasting fresh carrots and apples coated in a sweet maple syrup and tangy mustard glaze.

Can I use different vegetables?

Absolutely! You can substitute other root vegetables like sweet potatoes or parsnips for a unique twist on this dish.

How do I ensure my carrots are tender?

Make sure to cut your carrots evenly and roast them at the correct temperature. Flipping them halfway through also helps with even cooking.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mixture ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to roast it.

Final Thoughts

Maple Dijon Roasted Carrots and Apples offer a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors that complement any meal. This versatile dish is perfect as a side for various main courses or as part of a holiday spread. Feel free to customize with different herbs or seasonal fruits to suit your taste!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Maple Dijon Roasted Carrots and Apples

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• Author: Lara
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately four people 1x

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Description

Maple Dijon Roasted Carrots and Apples are a vibrant and delicious side dish that beautifully combines the sweetness of caramelized apples with the earthy flavor of roasted carrots. This dish is not only visually appealing but brings a delightful blend of flavors to your table, making it perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or casual meals. The tangy Dijon mustard and rich maple syrup glaze elevate this simple preparation into something truly special. Easy to make and packed with nutrients, this vegan-friendly recipe is sure to impress both family and guests alike.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 large carrots (about 1 pound)
• 3 large apples (about 1 pound)
• 1 onion
• 5 cloves garlic (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
• ¼ cup olive oil (or aquafaba)
• ¼ cup maple syrup
• 3 tablespoons stone-ground Dijon mustard
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon thyme

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Core the apples and chop them into ½” cubes. Cut the carrots into ¼” thick slices on the bias. Dice the onion and finely chop the garlic.
3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, black pepper, and thyme until smooth.
4. Add the chopped carrots, apples, onions, and garlic into the bowl; toss until well-coated.
5. Spread the mixture evenly on a baking sheet and roast for about 15 minutes. Flip everything over and continue roasting for another 10 to 15 minutes until tender.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Side
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (150g)
• Calories: 190
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 0mg