Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe transforms simple ingredients into something extraordinary. The maple syrup caramelizes beautifully in the oven, while the Dijon adds just enough tang to balance the sweetness. It’s healthy, colorful, and effortlessly elegant—an ideal choice for both weeknight meals and festive occasions. Plus, it’s vegetarian, gluten-free, and naturally dairy-free, making it a versatile crowd-pleaser.
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Maple Dijon Roasted Apples & Carrots – A Sweet and Savory Side with Autumn Flair
- Total Time: 40 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Maple Dijon Roasted Apples & Carrots is a beautifully balanced side dish that combines the natural sweetness of roasted apples and carrots with a tangy maple-Dijon glaze — perfect alongside roasted meats or as a warm autumn-inspired vegetarian dish.
Ingredients
- 4 large carrots, peeled and sliced into 1/2-inch sticks
- 2 crisp apples (such as Honeycrisp or Fuji), cored and cut into wedges
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
- Add the sliced carrots and apple wedges to the bowl and toss until evenly coated.
- Spread the mixture out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Roast for 25–30 minutes, tossing halfway through, until carrots are tender and the apples are caramelized around the edges.
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh thyme before serving.
- Serve warm as a side dish with roasted chicken, pork, or holiday meals.
Notes
- Use firm, tart apples like Granny Smith for a more balanced sweet-tart flavor.
- Add chopped pecans or walnuts during the last 10 minutes of roasting for extra crunch.
- For a vegan main course, serve over quinoa or wild rice with a drizzle of extra maple glaze.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Carrots – Their natural sweetness intensifies when roasted, creating a tender and flavorful base for the dish.
Apples – Choose firm, tart varieties like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith to balance the sweetness of the maple syrup.
Olive oil – Helps everything roast evenly and enhances the caramelization process.
Pure maple syrup – Adds a natural, rich sweetness that complements both the apples and the carrots.
Dijon mustard – Provides a tangy, slightly sharp contrast that makes the glaze irresistible.
Fresh thyme – Adds earthy, aromatic depth that ties the flavors together beautifully.
Salt and black pepper – Essential for balancing the sweet glaze and enhancing overall flavor.
Apple cider vinegar (optional) – A splash at the end brightens the dish and adds a subtle tang.
Pecans or walnuts (optional) – For added crunch and a nutty finish that complements the maple glaze.
Directions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Peel and slice the carrots into even sticks or rounds. Core and slice the apples into wedges (no need to peel unless you prefer).
In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and fresh thyme. Add the carrots and apples, tossing until evenly coated.
Spread the mixture in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast for 25–30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the carrots are tender and caramelized and the apples are golden and slightly crisp around the edges.
If desired, drizzle with a small splash of apple cider vinegar before serving for a pop of brightness. Sprinkle with toasted pecans or walnuts and extra thyme for garnish. Serve warm.
Essential Equipment
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4–6 people as a side dish. Preparation takes about 10 minutes, and roasting takes 25–30 minutes, making it a 40-minute side that’s as easy as it is impressive.
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 10 minutes or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Avoid microwaving too long—it can make the apples mushy.
Variations and Customizations
Spiced Autumn Version – Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice for a cozy fall flavor.
Maple Balsamic Glaze – Replace Dijon with balsamic vinegar for a deeper, richer sweetness.
Savory Herb Mix – Swap thyme for rosemary or sage for a more rustic, aromatic version.
Honey Dijon Option – Substitute honey for maple syrup if you prefer a lighter sweetness.
Parsnip and Carrot Blend – Mix in sliced parsnips for extra earthy depth.
Cranberry Twist – Add fresh cranberries in the last 10 minutes of roasting for a pop of tart color.
Vegan Holiday Style – Toss with vegan butter before serving for extra gloss and richness.
Nut-Free Option – Omit the pecans or replace with roasted pumpkin seeds for crunch.
Citrus Brightness – Add a bit of orange zest or juice to the glaze for a sunny flavor.
Maple Mustard Glazed Root Veggies – Try this glaze on sweet potatoes, turnips, or beets for variety.
FAQs
1. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, roast the carrots and apples a few hours in advance and reheat in the oven before serving.
2. What type of apples work best?
Firm, tart apples like Granny Smith, Pink Lady, or Honeycrisp hold their shape during roasting.
3. Can I use baby carrots?
Yes, just slice them in half lengthwise so they cook evenly.
4. Can I use yellow or purple carrots?
Absolutely! They’ll add gorgeous color and a slightly different sweetness.
5. Can I make this dish vegan?
It’s naturally vegan as long as you use plant-based maple syrup.
6. How do I keep the apples from getting soggy?
Roast everything in a single layer and avoid overcrowding the pan for even caramelization.
7. Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, parsnips, sweet potatoes, or Brussels sprouts make great additions.
8. What proteins pair best with this side?
It’s perfect with pork tenderloin, roast chicken, turkey, or glazed salmon.
9. Can I use whole-grain mustard instead of Dijon?
Yes, but it will add a bit more texture and a milder flavor.
10. Can I serve it cold?
Yes, this dish also tastes great as a chilled salad-style side.
Conclusion
Maple Dijon Roasted Apples & Carrots is a side dish that perfectly embodies balance—sweet, savory, tangy, and earthy all in one bite. It’s a simple recipe with gourmet appeal, transforming everyday ingredients into something special. Whether it’s part of a cozy family dinner or the star of your holiday spread, this dish delivers both flavor and color in abundance. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself making it again and again—it’s the kind of recipe that never goes out of season.
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