🥕 Maple-Roasted Carrots with Feta & Pistachios

⭐ Description

This vibrant side dish transforms simple carrots into something spectacular. Roasted until caramelized, tossed with warm maple syrup and spices, then finished with creamy feta and crunchy pistachios, it strikes the perfect balance of sweet, salty, savory, and tangy. Beautiful enough for holidays, simple enough for weeknights.

📋 Ingredients (Serves 4)

• 1 ½ lbs (680 g) carrots, peeled and sliced lengthwise

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 2–3 tbsp maple syrup

• ½ tsp ground cumin (optional but recommended)

• ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional for depth)

• ½ tsp salt, more to taste

• ¼ tsp black pepper

• ⅓ cup crumbled feta cheese

• ¼ cup chopped pistachios (roasted, unsalted or lightly salted)

• 1–2 tsp lemon juice or zest (optional, for brightness)

• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)

🍳 Instructions

1. Prep the carrots

Preheat oven to 400°F (205°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment or lightly oil it.
Place carrots on the sheet and drizzle with olive oil.

2. Season

Add maple syrup, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss until evenly coated.

3. Roast

Spread in a single layer.
Roast 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until tender and caramelized around edges.

4. Finish

Remove from oven.
Sprinkle with feta and pistachios.
Add a squeeze of lemon juice or lemon zest if desired.
Top with parsley.

5. Serve warm

Enjoy as a side dish with chicken, salmon, lamb, grains, or holiday meals.

🍽 Servings

• Serves 4 as a side dish.

• For a crowd, double or triple recipe. Carrots roast best when spaced apart.

🔢 Estimated Nutritional Info (per serving)

(Values are approximate)

• Calories: ~210

• Protein: 4 g

• Carbohydrates: 26 g

• Fiber: 4 g

• Sugars: 15 g

• Fat: 11 g

• Saturated Fat: 3 g

• Sodium: ~280 mg

💡 Tips & Notes

Notes

• Choose medium-sized carrots for even roasting.

• If using baby carrots, increase roasting time by ~5 minutes.

• Maple syrup caramelizes quickly—watch closely during last 5 minutes.

Tips

• For extra caramelization: roast at 425°F (220°C) for last 5 minutes.

• For dairy-free: swap feta for vegan feta or eliminate and add a squeeze of lemon.

• For nut-free: use pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, or crispy chickpeas.

• For more heat: add a pinch of chili flakes or drizzle hot honey at the end.

• To meal prep: roast carrots ahead; add feta/pistachios just before serving.

🌱 Health Benefits

• Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, supporting eye, skin, and immune health.

• Pistachios provide healthy fats, plant protein, and antioxidants.

• Feta adds calcium, protein, and tangy flavor with modest calories.

• Maple syrup contains trace minerals and offers a natural sweetness.

• Roasting enhances flavor without heavy sauces or creams.

A nutrient-dense, balanced side dish!

❓ Recipe Q&A

Q1. Can I use honey instead of maple syrup?

Yes! Use the same amount. Honey will caramelize slightly faster and give a richer sweetness.

Q2. Can I make this ahead?

Yes. Roast carrots 1 day ahead. Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes, then add feta and pistachios before serving.

Q3. What other cheeses work well?

Goat cheese, ricotta salata, or shaved parmesan are excellent alternatives.

Q4. Can I roast the carrots whole?

Yes—just increase roasting time to 35–45 minutes, depending on thickness.

Q5. Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, completely gluten-free as written.