Name: Maple Glazed Herb Roasted Carrots
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 lb carrots; 2 tbsp butter (melted); 2 tbsp maple syrup; 1 tsp fresh rosemary (chopped); 1 tsp thyme leaves; 1 tsp sage (chopped); to taste sea salt and pepper

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There’s something truly special about the vibrant colors and flavors of fall produce, and that’s precisely the inspiration behind this recipe for Maple Glazed Herb Roasted Carrots. I remember the first time I prepared these delightful carrots; the kitchen filled with a warm, inviting aroma that made everyone curious about what was cooking. Carrots, often underestimated, are elevated to star status when roasted with a glaze of maple syrup and fresh herbs. The combination of sweetness from the syrup and the savory notes from the herbs creates a compelling flavor profile that pairs perfectly with any fall meal. My family couldn’t get enough of them! Each bite was a burst of flavor, and before I knew it, the bowl was empty. Not only do these carrots taste incredible, but they are also a feast for the eyes with their beautiful golden hue. Whether you’re hosting a cozy family dinner or simply looking for a comforting side dish, these Maple Glazed Herb Roasted Carrots are the perfect addition to the table. I love how they can be dressed up for special occasions or kept simple for a weeknight meal.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
30 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
20 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
110 kcal

Protein:
1 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
2 g

Tools Used:
Frying Pan, Whisk, Oven, Chef’s Knife, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet

The Charm of This Maple Glazed Herb Roasted Carrots

They’re a Simple Side Dish

One of the things I love most about Maple Glazed Herb Roasted Carrots is how easy they are to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a side dish that feels both gourmet and comforting. Roasting the carrots at high heat caramelizes their natural sugars, enhancing their flavor and creating a deliciously tender texture.

Perfect for Fall

As the temperatures drop and the leaves change, these carrots embody the essence of fall. Their vibrant orange color and the sweet, earthy flavors reflect the season beautifully. Whether it’s Thanksgiving or a simple family gathering, they fit right in.

Health Benefits Galore

Carrots are packed with nutrients, and roasting them with minimal added fat keeps them healthy. They’re high in beta-carotene, which is great for your vision, and they provide a good dose of fiber. With the addition of herbs like rosemary, thyme, and sage, you’re also adding more flavor without excess calories.

Kid-Friendly and Fun

If you’re trying to get little ones to eat their vegetables, these Maple Glazed Herb Roasted Carrots are a game-changer. The sweet glaze makes them more appealing, and the fun shapes from slicing them on the diagonal can engage kids in the cooking process. They’ll have fun helping you toss the carrots in the glaze!

Versatile Pairing Options

These roasted carrots are incredibly versatile. They pair seamlessly with a variety of main dishes, from roasts to grilled chicken or even vegetarian options. You can serve them hot right out of the oven or at room temperature, making them suitable for picnics or potlucks.

Ingredients for Maple Glazed Herb Roasted Carrots

To create the perfect harmony of flavors in Maple Glazed Herb Roasted Carrots, you’ll need to gather a few simple ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in bringing out the sweetness of the carrots while enhancing their natural earthiness. The key players here are carrots, butter, and maple syrup, but don’t forget the fresh herbs that round out the dish beautifully.

2 lb carrots: Fresh, vibrant carrots are the star of this dish. Their natural sweetness shines through once roasted, providing a wonderful base for the glaze.
2 tbsp butter, melted: This adds richness and helps the glaze adhere to the carrots.
2 tbsp maple syrup: The star ingredient that gives the dish its signature sweetness and depth.
1 tsp fresh rosemary, chopped: This herb complements the sweetness of the carrots beautifully, adding an aromatic touch.
1 tsp thyme leaves: Thyme adds an earthy flavor that balances the sweetness.
1 tsp sage, chopped: Sage contributes a savory note that enhances the overall flavor.
Sea salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors together.

Instructions for Maple Glazed Herb Roasted Carrots

Let’s dive into the culinary magic of preparing Maple Glazed Herb Roasted Carrots. It’s a straightforward process that yields impressive results. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a beautifully roasted dish that’s sure to become a favorite.

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Setting the right temperature is crucial for achieving perfectly roasted carrots. A hot oven caramelizes the sugars and develops a nice, roasted flavor.
Slice the carrots diagonally into about 1/4 to 1/2-inch thick pieces. Cutting them on the diagonal increases the surface area, allowing for better caramelization and a more attractive presentation.
Whisk together the melted butter, maple syrup, and chopped herbs in a large bowl. Ensure they are well combined to create a cohesive glaze. The mixture should be smooth and fragrant.
Add sea salt and pepper to taste. Seasoning is key; adjust to your preference to balance the sweetness of the glaze.
Toss the carrots in the glaze until they are well coated. This step is essential as it ensures that every piece of carrot is evenly flavored.
Line a baking pan with parchment paper. This will help prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Spread the carrots evenly on the baking pan. Make sure they are in a single layer to allow for even roasting.
Bake for about 20 to 25 minutes. Keep an eye on them towards the end; they should be tender and slightly caramelized. You can test for doneness by piercing them with a fork.
Cool for several minutes before serving. Allowing them to cool slightly helps the flavors settle.
Serve and enjoy your Maple Glazed Herb Roasted Carrots warm! They make a fantastic side dish for any meal.

Things Worth Knowing

Carrot Freshness: Look for firm, unblemished carrots. Fresh carrots will have a vibrant color and a crisp texture.
Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with herbs according to your taste. Thyme, rosemary, and sage work well together, but you could also try dill or parsley.
Roasting Time: Keep an eye on the carrots while they roast. If you prefer them softer, you can extend the cooking time by a few minutes.
Serving Suggestions: These carrots pair well with roasted meats, grains, and even on a charcuterie board.

Make It Your Own

There are plenty of ways to customize your Maple Glazed Herb Roasted Carrots to suit your taste. Here are some ideas to help you make this recipe uniquely yours.

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep for about three days.
Freezing: While it’s best to enjoy them fresh, you can freeze roasted carrots. Just ensure they are completely cooled, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
Pairing: Serve these carrots alongside roasted chicken or fish for a complete meal.
Add Nuts: For added texture, consider tossing in some chopped walnuts or pecans before roasting.
Spice It Up: If you like a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

What Complements This Maple Glazed Herb Roasted Carrots

Grilled Chicken: These carrots make an excellent side dish for grilled chicken, adding a sweet contrast to the savory flavors.
Roasted Pork: Pair them with a succulent roast for a gourmet meal that feels like a special occasion.
Vegetable Medley: Serve them alongside a medley of roasted vegetables for a colorful and nutritious plate.
Holidays: They’re perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any fall gathering.
Storage Tips: Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to three days or frozen for later use.
Seasonal Pairing: These carrots shine in fall but can be enjoyed year-round alongside various dishes.

FAQ

Yes, you can definitely use baby carrots for Maple Glazed Herb Roasted Carrots. They will roast faster than regular carrots, so be sure to adjust your cooking time accordingly. Baby carrots tend to be sweeter, which complements the maple syrup nicely. Enjoy the convenience of not having to chop them, but do keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking!

For the best flavor, opt for pure maple syrup when making Maple Glazed Herb Roasted Carrots. Store-bought pancake syrups usually contain additives and high fructose corn syrup, which won’t provide the same rich, authentic taste. Pure maple syrup, whether grade A or grade B, will give your carrots a wonderful depth of flavor that enhances this dish.

Carrots are done roasting when they are tender and slightly caramelized. You can test their doneness by piercing them with a fork; they should be soft but not mushy. The edges should have a golden brown color, which indicates they are beautifully roasted. If you like them softer, feel free to cook them a few extra minutes until they reach your preferred texture.

Absolutely! You can mix in other vegetables like parsnips, sweet potatoes, or Brussels sprouts. Just be mindful that different vegetables have different cooking times, so they may need to be cut into similar-sized pieces or roasted separately. Adding a variety of vegetables can create a beautiful and colorful side dish that everyone will enjoy!

Store leftover Maple Glazed Herb Roasted Carrots in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to three days. To reheat, simply place them in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through, or you can microwave them for a quick option. Just be cautious not to overheat, as this can make them too soft.

Conclusion

The Maple Glazed Herb Roasted Carrots are a delightful and easy-to-make dish that showcases the beauty of seasonal ingredients. Their sweet and savory flavors are a wonderful addition to any meal, making them an instant favorite around the dinner table. I encourage you to give this recipe a try—you’ll be amazed at how such simple ingredients can transform into something so delicious and comforting. Enjoy a taste of fall with every bite!