Maple Dijon Roasted Apples & Carrots – Sweet, Savory, and Perfect for Fall

Looking for a side dish that’s both sweet and savory for your Thanksgiving or autumn dinner? Maple Dijon Roasted Apples & Carrots are a simple yet stunning addition to any holiday spread. The natural sweetness of apples pairs perfectly with tender roasted carrots, and a touch of Dijon mustard in the maple glaze adds a subtle tang that makes this dish unforgettable.

This recipe is healthy, easy, and elegant, making it perfect for holiday entertaining or even weeknight dinners.

🌟 Why This Recipe Works

• Sweet & Savory Balance: Maple syrup highlights the natural sweetness of apples and carrots while Dijon adds depth.
• Easy Prep: Minimal ingredients, simple roasting, no fuss.
• Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with vitamins A & C from carrots and apples.
• Versatile: Pairs with turkey, chicken, pork, or even roasted root vegetables.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Roast earlier in the day; flavors develop even more.

🥕 Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 pound carrots, peeled and cut into sticks or rounds
• 2 large apples, cored and cut into wedges (Honeycrisp or Gala)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Optional garnish: chopped parsley, crushed walnuts, or pomegranate seeds

🔪 Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Prepare the Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Step 3: Toss the Apples & Carrots

Place the carrots and apple wedges in a large mixing bowl. Pour the glaze over the vegetables and toss until everything is evenly coated.

Step 4: Roast

Spread the apples and carrots evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Roast for 25–30 minutes, tossing halfway through, until the carrots are tender and the apples are caramelized.

Step 5: Serve

Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with optional parsley, walnuts, or pomegranate seeds for extra color and crunch. Serve warm.

Maple Dijon Roasted Apples & Carrots

A sweet and savory roasted side dish combining tender carrots and caramelized apples with a maple-Dijon glaze — perfect for Thanksgiving or fall dinners.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Side Dish

Cuisine: American, Fall

Calories: 120

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 lb carrots, peeled and cut
• 2 apples, cored and cut into wedges
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 tbsp maple syrup
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
• to taste salt and black pepper

Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Whisk
• Serving dish

Method

 

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
3. Place apples and carrots in a large mixing bowl and toss with the maple-Dijon glaze until evenly coated.
4. Spread coated apples and carrots evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Roast for 25–30 minutes, tossing halfway through, until carrots are tender and apples caramelized.
6. Transfer to serving dish, garnish if desired, and serve warm.

Notes

Optional garnishes: parsley, crushed walnuts, or pomegranate seeds. Can be roasted a few hours ahead and reheated before serving.

💡 Tips for Perfect Roasted Apples & Carrots

1. Uniform Sizes: Cut apples and carrots similarly so they roast evenly.
2. High Heat: Roasting at 400°F ensures caramelization and rich flavor.
3. Don’t Overcrowd: Spread the vegetables in a single layer for even roasting.
4. Adjust Sweetness: Add more maple syrup if you prefer sweeter apples or a touch of balsamic vinegar for tang.
5. Make Ahead: Roast the vegetables a few hours in advance and reheat at 350°F for 10 minutes before serving.

🍎 Variations

• Add Root Veggies: Include parsnips, sweet potatoes, or butternut squash for more variety.
• Savory Twist: Sprinkle with crispy bacon bits or roast with garlic cloves.
• Herb Change: Swap thyme for rosemary or sage for a different flavor profile.
• Vegan & Gluten-Free: Recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free.

🥂 Serving Suggestions

• Serve alongside roasted turkey, ham, or chicken.
• Pair with mashed potatoes or stuffing for a complete holiday plate.
• Use as a warm autumn salad with a sprinkle of feta or goat cheese.

🧾 Fun Facts

Carrots and apples are naturally high in antioxidants, vitamin C, and fiber. Roasting them with a touch of maple syrup enhances their natural sugars while maintaining nutrients. Combining sweet and savory flavors is a classic Thanksgiving technique that balances richer meats on the plate.