Warm, sweet, and just a little tangy, this dish combines apples and carrots in a delightful way. Roasting brings out their natural sweetness, creating a comforting side that complements many meals. It’s simple to prepare and perfect for a family dinner or holiday gathering.

Why You Will Love This Maple Dijon Roasted Apples & Carrots

This roasted dish is not only easy but also delicious. With minimal prep time and everyday ingredients, it brings a burst of flavor to your table. The combination of sweet apples and earthy carrots is sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra veggies!

How to Make Maple Dijon Roasted Apples & Carrots

Making this dish involves straightforward steps that anyone can follow. You’ll prepare the apples and carrots, mix everything together, and then roast it until tender. It’s that easy! The oven does most of the work, so you can focus on other parts of your meal.

What You Need

2 medium Honeycrisp or Granny Smith apples, cored and sliced (about 2 cups)
4 medium carrots, peeled and chopped (about 2 cups)
3 tbsp Dijon mustard
4 tbsp pure maple syrup
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a mixing bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, maple syrup, olive oil, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Add chopped apples and carrots; toss until evenly coated.
Spread the mixture on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer.
Roast for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and tender, stirring halfway through.
Serve warm as a delicious side dish.

How to Serve Maple Dijon Roasted Apples & Carrots

This dish pairs beautifully with roasted chicken or pork. You can also serve it alongside grains like quinoa or rice for a complete meal. For special occasions, it works great as a colorful side at family gatherings or holiday dinners. A sprinkle of fresh herbs on top can add an extra touch!

How to Store Maple Dijon Roasted Apples & Carrots

To keep leftovers fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. If you want to freeze them, place the cooled dish in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, simply reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Recipe Tips

Seasoning: Adjust the salt and pepper to your taste.
Cooking Time: Check for tenderness; you may need a few extra minutes.
Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of cinnamon for a warm, spicy twist.
Veggie Options: Try swapping carrots for sweet potatoes for a different flavor.
Serving Size: Easily doubled or halved depending on your needs.

Variations & Swaps

Herbs: Add rosemary or thyme for an herby taste.
Sweeteners: Feel free to switch maple syrup with honey for a different sweetness.
Dairy: For a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of yogurt on top before serving.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep the apples and carrots and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to roast. Just whisk up the dressing and toss them together when you’re ready to cook.

Can I freeze the leftovers?
Absolutely! Let the roasted apples and carrots cool completely before transferring them to a freezer-safe container. They can last for about two months in the freezer.

How do I reheat this dish?
For the best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes. You can use the microwave too, but the texture might be softer.

What can I substitute for Dijon mustard?
If you don’t have Dijon mustard, you can use yellow mustard or even a bit of whole grain mustard for a different flavor profile.

What are some common mistakes to avoid?
One common mistake is overcrowding the baking sheet. Make sure the apples and carrots are in a single layer for even cooking. If they’re piled up, they may steam instead of roast, which can affect texture and flavor.