Imagine transforming ordinary carrots into a mouthwatering masterpiece that will have your dinner guests begging for the recipe! These Maple Roasted Carrots with Feta and Dried Cranberries are not just a side dish—they're a culinary adventure that combines sweet, savory, and tangy flavors in every single bite. Perfect for those looking to elevate their vegetable game, this recipe turns humble carrots into a gourmet experience that's both incredibly delicious and surprisingly simple to prepare.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb carrots, peeled and cut into sticks
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil to ensure easy cleanup.
- Wash and peel the carrots thoroughly. Cut them into uniform sticks approximately 3-4 inches long and 1/2 inch thick to ensure even roasting.
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the carrot sticks with olive oil, maple syrup, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Ensure each carrot is evenly coated with the maple-oil mixture.
- Spread the seasoned carrots in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are not overcrowded. This allows them to roast and caramelize instead of steaming.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 20-25 minutes, turning the carrots halfway through cooking. The carrots should be tender and have golden-brown edges.
- Remove the carrots from the oven and let them rest for 2-3 minutes to cool slightly.
- Transfer the roasted carrots to a serving platter. Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese and dried cranberries evenly over the warm carrots.
- Serve immediately while the carrots are still warm, allowing the feta to slightly melt and the cranberries to add a sweet-tart contrast.
Tips
- Choose fresh, firm carrots for the best roasting results. Look for carrots that are uniform in size to ensure even cooking.
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet! Give your carrots breathing room to caramelize instead of steam. Use a large sheet or roast in batches if needed.
- For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of ground cinnamon or cumin to the maple-oil mixture before roasting.
- Use real maple syrup for the best flavor—avoid pancake syrups which are often just sugar substitutes.
- Let the carrots rest for a few minutes after roasting to allow the natural sugars to settle and create a beautiful caramelized exterior.
- For a vegan version, replace feta with toasted pine nuts or almond slivers for a similar texture and added crunch.
- Serve immediately while the carrots are warm to enjoy the optimal blend of flavors and textures.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 170kcal
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 15mg
