Welcome to My Cozy Kitchen!
Hi there! Are you ready to indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of fall? Today, I’m excited to share one of my all-time favorite side dishes: Maple Dijon Roasted Apples and Carrots! This delightful combo is not only beautiful with all those vibrant colors, but it also offers a perfect balance of sweetness and savory goodness. I promise you’ll fall in love with how simple and delicious this dish is!
Why You’ll Love This Dish!
There are so many reasons to love this recipe… It’s easy, uses wholesome ingredients, and it’s perfect for Family dinners, special occasions, or just because you want something delicious! Plus, it’s an excellent way to sneak in some veggies for those picky eaters. You can’t go wrong here!
Nutritional Benefits
Let’s not forget about the health aspects! Both carrots and apples are packed with vitamins and minerals. Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, which is great for your eyesight, while apples add a boost of fiber—a win-win for your body! By making this dish at home, you control the ingredients, ensuring no added preservatives or unwanted sugars. The drizzle of maple syrup gives it that lovely sweetness, but you can adjust it to your taste.
Adaptable Variations
- Swap the Fruit: If you’re not a fan of apples, try pears for a similar sweet and soft texture.
- Add More Veggies: You can add Brussels sprouts or sweet potatoes for a heartier mix!
- Utilize Fresh Herbs: Experimenting with rosemary or sage instead of thyme can change the flavor profile and add a new twist to the dish.
Maple Dijon Roasted Apples & Carrots Recipe
Ingredients
- Carrots (mixed colors recommended for visual appeal)
- Apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for a balance of sweet and tart)
- ¼ cup Olive oil
- 3 tablespoons Maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Fresh thyme (or dried thyme if fresh is unavailable)
- 2 cloves Garlic (optional for additional flavor)
Serves 4 people
- Standard side portion → 4 servings
- Smaller portions → up to 5 servings
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). This is the perfect temperature to get your ingredients nice and caramelized!
- Wash and peel the carrots, then cut them into uniform chunks or sticks. This step is super important for even roasting—nobody likes a half-cooked carrot!
- Core and slice the apples into wedges, leaving the skin on for extra flavor and texture.
- In a large bowl, combine the prepared carrots and apples.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, minced garlic (if using), salt, and pepper. This marinade is where the magic happens!
- Pour the marinade over the carrots and apples, using your hands or a spatula to toss everything well. Ensure all the pieces are coated evenly—it makes such a difference!
- Spread the mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper (easy cleanup, yay!).
- Sprinkle fresh thyme leaves over the top. Adjust the amount to suit your taste; I can never have too much thyme!
- Roast in the oven for about 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through. You’ll know it’s done when the carrots are tender and everything is beautifully caramelized!
- Once finished, take it out and let it cool just a little. This allows the flavors to meld perfectly.
- Finally, taste and adjust with more salt and pepper if needed, then serve warm. Trust me, you’ll want to enjoy every bite!
Practical & Valuable Tips
- If you want to make this dish ahead of time, you can prep the veggies and toss them in the marinade a few hours before serving. Just roast them right before mealtime!
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They’re great cold too as part of a salad!
- Think about serving these with grilled chicken or fish for a delicious, well-rounded meal.
Equipment Needed
Here’s a handy list of what you’ll need:
- A large roasting pan or baking sheet
- A sharp knife and cutting board
- A whisk or fork for blending the marinade
- A large mixing bowl
- Parchment paper (optional but recommended for easy cleanup)
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I prepare this dish a day in advance? Yes! Just keep the veggies in the marinade in the fridge and roast them when you’re ready to serve.
- What if I don’t like Dijon mustard? You can substitute with any mustard or even skip it altogether!
- Can this be made vegan? Absolutely! This dish is naturally plant-based, so you’re good to go!
- What’s the best way to store leftovers? Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Can I use frozen carrots or apples for this recipe? Fresh produce is best for roasting, but if you’re in a pinch, make sure to thaw them first and pat them dry!
Join the Fun!
Have you tried making Maple Dijon Roasted Apples and Carrots? I’d love to hear how it turned out for you! Let’s connect on Pinterest to share and discover more yummy recipes together. Happy cooking!
