Maple Dijon Roasted Carrots Flavorful Side Dish Delight

Looking for a side dish that’s easy, quick, and packed with flavor? You’ll love these Maple Dijon Roasted Carrots! This simple recipe combines sweet maple syrup and zesty Dijon mustard to make your carrots shine. Perfect for any meal, these vibrant veggies will add a burst of color and taste to your table. Let’s dive into the ingredients and make this delightful dish together!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Sweet and Savory Balance: The combination of maple syrup and Dijon mustard creates a delightful contrast that elevates the natural sweetness of the carrots.
- Easy Preparation: This recipe requires minimal prep work, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
- Healthy Side Dish: Roasted carrots are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making this dish a healthy addition to any meal.
- Versatile Garnishing: The option to garnish with fresh thyme or parsley adds an aromatic touch and enhances the visual appeal of the dish.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 1 pound of medium-sized carrots, peeled and cut into uniform sticks
– 3 tablespoons maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish (optional)
When making Maple Dijon Roasted Carrots, start with fresh carrots. They should be medium-sized for even cooking. Peel them, then cut them into sticks. This helps them roast nicely.
Next, gather the key flavors. Maple syrup adds sweetness. Dijon mustard provides a tangy kick. Olive oil keeps the carrots moist. Garlic powder enhances the flavor. Sea salt and black pepper add seasoning.
Optional Ingredients for Enhanced Flavor
– Alternative garnishes (e.g., sesame seeds, chives)
– Variation of mustard types (e.g., whole grain, spicy)
Want to switch things up? You can add sesame seeds or chives as garnishes. They give a nice crunch and flavor. Different types of mustard can also change the taste. Whole grain adds texture, while spicy mustard brings more heat.
Experiment with these options to make this dish your own!

Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing Your Ingredients
First, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This step is key for great roasting. Next, grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper. This helps prevent sticking. In a large mixing bowl, add 3 tablespoons of maple syrup, 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Then, sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon of sea salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Whisk these ingredients until smooth and well mixed.
Coating the Carrots
Now, it’s time to coat the carrots. Take 1 pound of medium-sized carrots, peel them, and cut them into uniform sticks. This helps them cook evenly. Add the carrot sticks to your bowl with the sauce. Toss them gently until each piece is nicely coated. You want the sweet and tangy mix to stick to every carrot.
Roasting Instructions
Spread the coated carrots in a single layer on your lined baking sheet. This keeps them from steaming and ensures they roast well. Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast for 25-30 minutes. Stir the carrots halfway through to help them cook evenly. They are done when they are tender and slightly caramelized. Once finished, take them out and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve them on a dish and, if you like, add fresh thyme or parsley on top for a pop of color.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Best Flavor
To balance sweetness and tang, use the right amounts. The maple syrup brings sweetness while Dijon mustard adds tang. A good mix keeps flavors bright. Cut the carrots into uniform sticks. This helps them cook evenly. If they are different sizes, some will cook faster than others.
Cooking Techniques
Roasting times depend on carrot size. Medium-sized carrots take about 25-30 minutes. If you use larger pieces, add 5-10 minutes. To prevent burning or sticking, spread them out on the baking sheet. Lining the sheet with parchment paper helps a lot. Stir halfway through to make sure they roast evenly.
Suggested Pairings
Maple Dijon roasted carrots pair well with many dishes. Serve them with roasted chicken or grilled fish for a nice meal. They also go well with quinoa or a fresh salad. For drinks, try a light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc. A sparkling water with lemon is also refreshing.
Pro Tips
- Cut Uniformly: Make sure to cut the carrots into uniform sticks to ensure even cooking and roasting.
- Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to adjust the amount of maple syrup based on your preference for sweetness.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Garnishing with fresh thyme or parsley enhances the flavor and adds a pop of color to the dish.
- Stir Halfway: Stir the carrots halfway through roasting to promote even caramelization and prevent burning.

Variations
Flavor Variations
You can change the taste of your maple Dijon roasted carrots easily. Adding spices is a great way to do this. For a warm flavor, try adding cumin. It gives a nice depth. If you want a smoky taste, use paprika.
You can also mix in other root veggies for variety. Think about using parsnips or sweet potatoes. These will roast well and add a different taste. Just cut them into sizes that match your carrots. This keeps everything cooking evenly.
Dietary Adjustments
If you need a vegan dish, this recipe is perfect. All the ingredients are plant-based. You can use maple syrup and Dijon mustard, which fit well in a vegan diet.
For those on a gluten-free diet, check your mustard. Most Dijon mustards are gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy this dish without worry.
If you’re looking for low-carb options, you can swap carrots for zucchini. Zucchini roasts nicely too. Just remember, it will cook faster, so check on it often.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
After you enjoy your Maple Dijon roasted carrots, store the leftovers right. Place them in an airtight container. They will stay fresh in the fridge for up to five days. Make sure the carrots cool before sealing. This helps keep their taste and texture.
If you want to freeze them, that works too! Spread the roasted carrots on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about one hour. Then, transfer the carrots to a freezer-safe bag. They can last for up to three months in the freezer.
Reheating Suggestions
When you’re ready to eat the leftovers, reheat them carefully. The best way is to use an oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the carrots on a baking sheet. Heat them for about 10-15 minutes, or until warm.
You can also use a microwave for quick reheating. Place the carrots in a microwave-safe dish. Cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat for about one to two minutes, checking often. This keeps them soft and tasty.
FAQs
Common Questions
How long do roasted carrots last in the fridge?
Roasted carrots last about five days in the fridge. Store them in an airtight container. This helps keep them fresh and tasty. If you notice any off smell or mushiness, it’s best to toss them.
Can I use baby carrots instead of medium-sized ones?
Yes, you can use baby carrots! They will cook faster, so reduce the roasting time. Keep an eye on them while they cook to avoid overcooking.
Nutritional Information
Caloric content per serving
Each serving of maple Dijon roasted carrots has about 100 calories. This makes them a healthy choice for a side dish.
Health benefits of the ingredients used
Carrots are high in vitamin A, which is great for your eyes. Olive oil contains healthy fats that support heart health. Maple syrup adds antioxidants, and Dijon mustard offers a boost of flavor with fewer calories.
Preparation FAQs
Can I prepare the carrots in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the carrots a day ahead. Cut and coat them, then store in the fridge. Just roast them when you’re ready to eat.
What can I substitute for maple syrup?
You can use honey or agave syrup as a substitute for maple syrup. Both will add sweetness. Adjust the amount to your taste, as they may vary in sweetness.
This blog post covered how to make tasty maple Dijon roasted carrots. You’ve learned the right ingredients, easy steps, and helpful tips for great flavor. You can try different spices and pairings to change things up. Storing leftovers correctly ensures you can enjoy them later.
With these insights, you can confidently create a delicious side dish that shines at any meal. Now, time to put your skills to the test and enjoy cookin

Maple Dijon Roasted Carrots
Ingredients
- 1 pound medium-sized carrots, peeled and cut into uniform sticks
- 3 tablespoons maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 0.5 teaspoon sea salt
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
- to taste Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, olive oil, garlic powder, sea salt, and black pepper. Whisk well until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Add the cut carrots to the bowl, and toss them with the maple-Dijon mixture until they are evenly coated.
- Spread the coated carrots in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This ensures they roast evenly and don’t stick.
- Roast the carrots in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly caramelized, stirring halfway through for even cooking.
- Once done, remove the carrots from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
- Transfer the roasted carrots to a serving dish, and garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired.







