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Maple Dijon Roasted Apples and Carrots bring a perfect balance of sweet and savory that transforms simple roasted vegetables into something special. It’s a side dish I often turn to when I want to impress with minimal effort but maximum flavor on weeknights or holiday dinners.
I first made this on a whim when apples were in season and it quickly became a favorite with the family for its comforting sweetness paired with a bit of tang.
Ingredients
- Two medium Honeycrisp or Granny Smith apples: cored and sliced. Honeycrisp offers sweetness and crispness while Granny Smith gives tartness so choose based on your flavor preference
- Four medium carrots: peeled and chopped provide sweetness and texture, look for firm carrots without soft spots
- Three tablespoons Dijon mustard: give the dish its tangy depth, freshly opened jars have the best flavor and brightness
- Four tablespoons pure maple syrup: add natural sweetness and caramelize beautifully during roasting
- Two tablespoons olive oil: create a smooth glaze and help achieve that golden roast
- Salt and pepper to taste: enhance all the flavors and are essential for seasoning
Instructions
- Build The Maple Dijon Glaze:
- In a bowl whisk together Dijon mustard, maple syrup, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Making sure these are well combined ensures every apple and carrot slice gets that perfect coating and balance of flavors.
- Prepare Apples and Carrots:
- Core and slice apples into even pieces to roast evenly. Peel and chop carrots into similar sized chunks. This evenness prevents undercooked or overly soft bits in the final dish.
- Coat and Arrange:
- Add the prepared apples and carrots to the glaze and toss gently but thoroughly so everything is evenly coated. Spread them out on a parchment-lined baking sheet in one single layer. Crowding the pan will cause steaming instead of roasting.
- Roast to Perfection:
- Place the pan in a preheated 400 degrees Fahrenheit oven and roast for about 25 to 30 minutes. Toss them halfway through so they get evenly caramelized and golden. You want tender vegetables with slightly crisp edges.
- Serve Warm:
- Once roasted to golden and tender, serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Maple syrup is my secret weapon in this dish adding a deep caramel sweetness that keeps everyone coming back for seconds. It reminds me of family dinners where fall flavors like these always bring a warm, cozy feeling around the table.
Storage Tips
Cool completely before storing this side in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to three days but is best enjoyed fresh for the texture. When reheating, do so gently in an oven or skillet to avoid sogginess.
Ingredient Swaps
Use other sweet varieties of apples if Honeycrisp or Granny Smith are unavailable such as Fuji or Gala but adjust sweetness accordingly. Substitute honey for maple syrup for a different flavor twist while keeping that natural sweet note.
Serving Ideas
Pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken, pork chops, or as part of a vegetarian meal alongside grains and leafy greens. Scatter chopped fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary on top before serving to add an herby aroma and extra freshness.
This recipe brings fall flavors to your table with ease and warmth that everyone will appreciate.
Frequently Asked Recipe Questions
- → What apples work best for roasting with carrots?
Firm apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith hold their shape well and provide a nice tartness that balances the sweetness of maple syrup during roasting.
- → Can I use fresh mustard instead of Dijon?
Dijon mustard offers a smooth, tangy flavor that complements the maple glaze, but you can use other mustards to adjust the sharpness to your taste.
- → How do I ensure even roasting of apples and carrots?
Cut the apples and carrots into similar sizes and coat them evenly with the maple Dijon mixture. Spread them in a single layer on the baking sheet to allow proper caramelization.
- → Can this dish be prepared ahead of time?
It's best served fresh from the oven to enjoy the tender texture and vibrant flavors, but you can prepare the glaze and chop ingredients in advance.
- → What variations can enhance the dish?
Adding fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme before roasting can add aromatic depth, and a sprinkle of toasted nuts brings crunch and extra dimension.