Welcome to Your New Favorite Side Dish!
Hey there! Do you love beautiful, wholesome dishes that combine both sweetness and a bit of tang? If you do, then you’re in for a treat with these Maple Dijon Roasted Apples and Carrots. This dish is perfect for those cozy fall nights when you want something simple yet bursting with flavor. Plus, it’s so easy to make that you’ll find yourself whipping it up for family dinners and festive gatherings alike!
Why You’ll Love This Dish
What I adore about this side dish is how it brings together the earthy sweetness of roasted apples and carrots, creating a beautiful balance. With the distinct touch of maple syrup and Dijon mustard, it transforms a simple vegetable medley into something rather special. Not only does it taste amazing, but the vibrant colors also make your dinner table look fantastic!
Nutritional Benefits
Let’s talk about the goodness packed into this dish. Carrots are a fantastic source of vitamin A, which is great for eye health, while apples are loaded with fiber, which helps keep your digestion in check. Maple syrup, while a sweet addition, also contains antioxidants. Plus, the olive oil adds those healthy fats that are good for your heart. By using natural ingredients, you can savor a delicious side that’s also nutritious!
Adaptable Variations
- Herbs Galore: If you’re not a fan of rosemary or thyme, feel free to switch it up with sage or even parsley. Each herb brings a unique flavor that complements the apples and carrots!
- For a Zesty Kick: Want to add some heat? Toss a pinch of cayenne pepper into the glaze for some warmth!
- Different Sweeteners: Don’t have maple syrup? Honey or agave syrup can work just as well, providing sweetness without losing the essence of this dish.
- Root Veggie Remix: Mix in other root veggies like sweet potatoes or parsnips to change up the flavor and texture!
Easy Maple Dijon Roasted Apples & Carrots Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 medium-sized apples (like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), cored and sliced
- 4 medium-sized carrots, peeled and sliced into sticks
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary or thyme, chopped (optional)
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
This recipe serves about 4 people as a side dish.
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This helps to get those apples and carrots perfectly roasted!
- Prepare the Vegetables and Apples: In a large mixing bowl, toss together the sliced apples and carrots. They already look so good together!
- Make the Glaze: In a separate bowl, whisk up the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, olive oil, ground cinnamon, salt, and pepper. If you’re feeling adventurous, add in the fresh herbs.
- Coat the Apples and Carrots: Pour the delicious glaze over the apples and carrots. Now, give it a good toss to coat everything evenly!
- Arrange on a Baking Sheet: Spread them out on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure they are in a single layer—this is key for even roasting!
- Roast in the Oven: Pop the baking sheet in the oven and roast for about 25-30 minutes. Remember to toss halfway through so everything cooks nicely. You’ll know they’re ready when the apples are tender, and the carrots caramelized.
- Finish with Balsamic (Optional): If you’re feeling fancy, drizzle on some balsamic vinegar during the last 5 minutes of roasting to take the flavors up a notch!
- Serve: Once done, carefully remove them from the oven and let cool for a moment. Plate these beauties and serve warm—trust me, they’ll steal the show!
- Presentation: Share this gorgeous medley on a serving platter and feel free to sprinkle a few extra herbs on top for that gourmet touch!
Practical Tips
- Want to maintain the color of your apples? Toss them in a bit of lemon juice when you slice them to prevent browning.
- If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days.
- These roasted apples and carrots also make a fantastic topping for salads—just chop them up and go wild with greens!
Equipment Needed
You won’t need much to whip up this dish, but here’s a quick checklist of tools that’ll help:
- A large mixing bowl
- A whisk for the glaze
- A baking sheet
- Parchment paper (to make clean-up a breeze!)
- A sharp knife and cutting board
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use other types of apples? Yes, you can! Just choose apples that balance sweetness and tartness for the best flavor.
- How long do leftovers last? Store them in the fridge for about 3-4 days. They make a wonderful addition to lunch!
- Can I make this dish ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prep everything and roast it just before serving for the freshest taste!
- What can I serve this dish with? It pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken, pork chops, or even as part of a vegetarian feast!
- Can I freeze these roasted apples and carrots? While it’s best fresh, you can freeze leftovers for up to a month. Thaw and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy!
Give this delightful Maple Dijon Roasted Apples & Carrots recipe a try, and let me know how it goes! I’d love to see your versions of this dish—share your creations with me on Pinterest, and let’s inspire each other with simple and delicious food!
