These maple-roasted carrots are a beautiful blend of natural sweetness, warm spices, creamy feta, and crunchy pistachios. Roasting intensifies the carrot’s flavor, giving you tender, golden, slightly crispy edges coated in a glossy maple glaze. The feta adds tangy creaminess, while pistachios bring a satisfying crunch. This dish looks gourmet but is incredibly simple—perfect as a holiday side, weeknight upgrade, or even a vegetarian main.

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🧾 Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) carrots, peeled and cut into sticks (or use whole baby carrots)

• 2 tbsp olive oil (30 ml)

• 2 tbsp pure maple syrup (30 ml)

• ½ tsp salt (3 g)

• ¼ tsp black pepper (1 g)

• ¼ tsp ground cinnamon (1 g)

• ¼ cup (35 g) crumbled feta cheese

• ¼ cup (30 g) chopped pistachios, shelled

• 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (1 g), for garnish

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👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easier cleanup.

2. Prepare the Carrots

If using thick carrots, cut them into sticks of even size for uniform roasting.
If using baby carrots, simply trim the tops.

3. Season the Carrots

In a bowl, toss carrots with:

• Olive oil

• Maple syrup

• Salt

• Black pepper

• Cinnamon

Make sure every piece is well coated.

4. Roast

Spread the carrots in a single layer on the baking sheet.
Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until:

• They are tender

• Slightly caramelized

• Edges are golden

5. Add Toppings

Once out of the oven, transfer to a serving dish and top with:

• Crumbled feta

• Chopped pistachios

• Fresh thyme leaves

6. Serve Warm

Enjoy immediately while the carrots are warm and the feta is gently melting into the maple glaze.

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✨ Chef Tips

✔ If you want deeper caramelization, roast at 425°F (220°C) for the last 5 minutes.
✔ Honey can replace maple syrup — but maple gives a richer flavor.
✔ Add a splash of lemon juice before serving for brightness.
✔ Don’t overcrowd the pan or carrots will steam instead of roast.

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🔄 Variations

🍊 Orange Zest Version

Add:

• 1 tsp fresh orange zest

• 1 tbsp orange juice
  This gives a bright, citrusy twist!

🔥 Spicy Version

Add:

• ¼ tsp chili flakes or cayenne pepper
  Perfect for people who enjoy sweet–spicy flavors.

🧄 Garlic Herb Version

Add:

• 2 minced garlic cloves

• ½ tsp dried rosemary
  More savory, less sweet.

🌿 Vegan Version

Replace feta with:

• Crushed cashews, or

• Vegan feta

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🍽️ What to Serve With Maple-Roasted Carrots

These pair beautifully with:

• Grilled chicken

• Baked salmon

• Roast beef

• Creamy mashed potatoes

• Quinoa or couscous bowls

• Holiday dinners (Thanksgiving, Christmas, Eid feasts)

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❓ Related Questions

1. Can I make these ahead?

Yes! Roast them, refrigerate, then warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes. Add feta & pistachios after reheating.

2. Can I use frozen carrots?

You can, but thaw them first and dry thoroughly for best caramelization.

3. Can I use honey instead of maple syrup?

Yes—use the same amount.

4. How do I keep the pistachios crunchy?

Add them right before serving.

5. Are these healthy?

Very! Carrots are rich in vitamin A, fiber, and antioxidants. The toppings add protein and healthy fats.