Ina Garten Maple Roasted Carrots Recipe

Ina Garten’s Maple Roasted Carrots are a simple yet elegant side dish perfect for any meal. Tender carrots are caramelized to perfection with a touch of maple syrup, olive oil, and seasonings, creating a sweet and savory flavor that’s sure to impress.

What are Ina Garten Maple Roasted Carrots?

Maple-roasted carrots are oven-baked carrots that are tossed in a light glaze made of maple syrup and olive oil. Ina Garten’s version highlights the natural sweetness of the carrots while enhancing them with a beautiful caramelized finish.

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Reasons to Try Ina Garten Maple Roasted Carrots

• Easy to Prepare: Minimal effort for maximum flavor.
• Perfect Side Dish: Complements everything from roasts to vegetarian mains.
• Naturally Sweet: Maple syrup adds a delightful sweetness without overpowering.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with vitamins and fiber.

Ingredients Needed to Make Ina Garten Maple Roasted Carrots

• Carrots – 2 pounds, peeled and cut into thick diagonal slices
• Olive oil – 3 tablespoons
• Maple syrup – 2 tablespoons (pure maple syrup recommended)
• Kosher salt – 1 teaspoon
• Freshly ground black pepper – ½ teaspoon
• Fresh thyme – 1 teaspoon, chopped (optional)
• Parsley – 1 tablespoon, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Instructions to Prepare Ina Garten Maple Roasted Carrots

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Prepare the Carrots:
   Place the peeled and cut carrots in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and maple syrup, and season with kosher salt and black pepper. Toss the carrots until they are evenly coated.
3. Spread on Baking Sheet:
   Arrange the carrots in a single layer on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even roasting.
4. Roast the Carrots:
   Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the carrots for 20-25 minutes. Shake or stir the carrots halfway through the roasting time to ensure they caramelize evenly.
5. Garnish and Serve:
   Remove the carrots from the oven and sprinkle with fresh thyme or parsley for a pop of color and flavor, if desired. Serve hot.

What Goes Well With Ina Garten Maple Roasted Carrots?

• Roast Chicken or Turkey: A classic pairing for a hearty meal.
• Beef Tenderloin or Prime Rib: Complements the savory richness of red meat.
• Grain Dishes: Serve alongside quinoa, farro, or wild rice for a wholesome meal.
• Fish Fillets: A great accompaniment to roasted salmon or white fish.
• Holiday Meals: Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter dinner.

Key Tips for Making Ina Garten Maple Roasted Carrots

• Cut Evenly: Ensure the carrots are cut into uniform slices for even cooking.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Spread the carrots out on the baking sheet so they roast instead of steaming.
• Use Real Maple Syrup: Avoid artificial syrups for the best flavor.
• Check for Doneness: The carrots should be tender and caramelized but not mushy.
• Add Fresh Herbs: Thyme or parsley adds a lovely finishing touch.

Creative Variations of Ina Garten Maple Roasted Carrots

• Add Spice: Sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cayenne for a unique flavor.
• Citrus Glaze: Add a splash of fresh orange juice or zest for brightness.
• Nutty Finish: Top with toasted pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture.
• Honey Substitute: Swap maple syrup with honey for a slightly different sweetness.
• Balsamic Drizzle: Drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving for added tanginess.

Storage Guidelines for Ina Garten Maple Roasted Carrots

• Refrigerate leftovers: Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Rewarm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes, or in the microwave until heated through.
• Freeze: Not recommended, as the texture may become mushy when thawed.

Nutrition Value

• Calories: ~120 per serving
• Protein: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fats: 5g
• Fiber: 4g
• Vitamin A: ~250% of the daily value

FAQs

Can I Use Baby Carrots Instead of Whole Carrots?

Yes, baby carrots can be used instead of whole carrots for this recipe. They require less prep and can be roasted as is. Adjust the roasting time slightly, as baby carrots may cook faster.

How Do You Prevent Roasted Carrots from Becoming Mushy?

To prevent roasted carrots from becoming mushy, ensure they are evenly spaced on the baking sheet and not overcrowded. This allows them to roast properly instead of steaming. Avoid overcooking by checking them at the 20-minute mark.

Can Maple Roasted Carrots Be Made Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can make maple-roasted carrots ahead of time. Roast the carrots, then refrigerate them in an airtight container. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-10 minutes to restore their caramelized texture and flavor.

What Other Vegetables Can I Roast with Carrots?

Other vegetables that pair well with roasted carrots include parsnips, sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, and red onions. Toss them in the same maple glaze and adjust the roasting time based on their size.

Wrapping Up

Ina Garten’s Maple Roasted Carrots are a delightful, crowd-pleasing side dish that’s as easy to prepare as it is impressive to serve. With their perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, these roasted carrots are ideal for weeknight dinners, holiday feasts, or any special occasion. Give them a try and watch them disappear from the plate!

More Ina Garten Recipes

• Ina Garten Waffle Iron Hash Browns
• Ina Garten Roasted Vegetable Frittata
• Ina Garten Buttermilk Pancakes
• Ina Garten Broccoli Quiche

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