Maple Dijon Roasted Apples & Carrots: The Ultimate Roasted Vegetable Recipe
Introduction to Maple Dijon Roasted Apples & Carrots
This delightful dish combines the natural sweetness of apples with the earthy flavor of carrots, all enhanced by a tangy maple Dijon dressing. Perfect for any occasion, this side dish brings a burst of flavor to your table while being incredibly simple to prepare. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy family meal, these roasted apples and carrots are sure to impress.
A Personal Story Behind My Maple Dijon Roasted Apples & Carrots Journey
I first discovered this recipe at a cozy autumn gathering a few years ago. As the crisp air filled with the scent of roasted vegetables, I was intrigued by the combination of apples and carrots. I couldn’t resist asking for the recipe, and since then, it has become a treasured favorite in my home. Each time I make it, I am reminded of the warmth of that gathering and the joy of sharing good food with loved ones.
What Makes This Maple Dijon Roasted Apples & Carrots Recipe Special?
What sets this recipe apart is its unique blend of flavors. The sweetness from the maple syrup pairs beautifully with the tanginess of Dijon mustard, creating a glaze that caramelizes as the dish roasts. The garlic and thyme add depth, making every bite a savory delight. Plus, it’s a versatile dish that can complement any main course, from roasted chicken to grilled steak, making it a go-to recipe for any meal.
The Full Maple Dijon Roasted Apples & Carrots Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 large carrots (about 1 pound)
- 3 large apples (about 1 pound)
- 1 onion
- 5 cloves garlic (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 3 tablespoons stone ground Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon thyme
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is key to achieving perfectly roasted vegetables with a nice caramelization.
- Core the apples and chop them into 1/2-inch cubes. Use a firm variety like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best flavor.
- Slice the carrots into 1/4-inch thick slices on a bias. This not only enhances the presentation but also helps them cook evenly.
- Dice the onion into 1/2-inch pieces. The onion adds sweetness and complements the other flavors beautifully.
- Finely chop the garlic. If you prefer a milder garlic flavor, you can substitute with garlic powder.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and thyme. This will create a lovely glaze for your vegetables.
- Add the chopped carrots, apples, onions, and garlic to the bowl. Toss well to coat everything evenly in the glaze.
- Spread the mixture on a baking sheet. Make sure to spread it out evenly to ensure even roasting.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until the side touching the pan starts to brown. Remember to flip the mixture over to brown the other side for an even caramelization.
- Continue roasting for another 10-15 minutes until the carrots are tender when pierced with a fork and the glaze is slightly caramelized. The cooking time may vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on it.
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Maple Dijon Roasted Apples & Carrots
This dish is incredibly versatile! Consider serving it alongside roasted meats or as a vegetarian main course with grains like quinoa or farro. For added crunch, sprinkle some chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts before serving. You can also customize the recipe by adding other vegetables like sweet potatoes or parsnips for a heartier dish. Don’t forget to drizzle any leftover glaze over the top for extra flavor!
Frequently Asked Questions About Maple Dijon Roasted Apples & Carrots
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the vegetables and glaze a few hours in advance, then roast them just before serving.
What type of apples work best?
Firmer apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp hold up well during roasting and add a nice tartness.
Can I use other types of mustard?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different mustards like yellow or spicy brown for a flavor twist.
Enjoy this sweet and savory side dish that’s perfect for any meal!
Maple Dijon Roasted Apples & Carrots
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 large carrots (about 1 pound)
- 3 large apples (about 1 pound)
- 1 medium onion
- 5 cloves garlic (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
- 0.25 cup olive oil
- 0.25 cup maple syrup
- 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard (stone ground)
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon thyme
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Core the apples and chop them into 1/2-inch cubes. Use a firm variety for best results.
- Slice the carrots into 1/4-inch thick slices on a bias for even cooking.
- Dice the onion into 1/2-inch pieces to add sweetness.
- Finely chop the garlic or substitute with garlic powder if preferred.
- In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and thyme to create a glaze.
- Add the chopped carrots, apples, onions, and garlic to the bowl. Toss well to coat everything evenly.
- Spread the mixture on a baking sheet, ensuring even distribution for even roasting.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, flipping halfway for even browning.
- Continue roasting for another 10-15 minutes until tender and caramelized.