Crispy Maple Glazed Carrots and Brussel Sprouts

If you’re looking for a side dish that will make everyone at the table smile, look no further than these Crispy Maple Glazed Carrots and Brussel Sprouts. I remember the first time I served this dish at a family gathering; it was a game changer! The combination of sweet maple syrup and earthy vegetables creates a flavor explosion that turns even the most skeptical eaters into fans. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need something simple yet delicious, as well as special occasions when you want to impress your guests.

This recipe is not just tasty; it’s also packed with wholesome ingredients. Plus, it comes together in just 35 minutes, making it a fantastic choice for meal prep or last-minute dinner ideas. Trust me, once you try it, it will become one of your go-to recipes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious side ready in no time!
• Family-approved: Even those who claim they don’t like Brussels sprouts will love the sweet and savory flavors in this dish.
• Wholesome ingredients: Made with simple, natural ingredients that you can feel good about serving.
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive holiday gathering, these veggies fit right in.
• Make ahead option: You can easily roast them ahead of time and reheat them for an effortless meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully to create a healthy side dish. Let’s gather what we need!

For the Vegetables

• 2 tbsp melted coconut oil, divided
• 4 cups brussels sprouts, halved or quartered if large
• 3 large carrots, cut into batons

For the Seasoning

• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1/3 tsp salt
• 1/3 tsp black pepper

For the Glaze

• 1 tbsp maple syrup

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with your ingredients. Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch.
• Include other veggies: Try adding parsnips or sweet potatoes for different flavors and textures.
• Spice it up: A pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes can give your dish an exciting kick.
• Herb it up: Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can add a lovely aromatic touch.

How to Make Crispy Maple Glazed Carrots and Brussel Sprouts

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is key for getting those beautiful crispy edges on your veggies. A hot oven ensures they roast perfectly without getting soggy.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

In a large bowl, combine the halved Brussels sprouts and carrot batons. Drizzle half of the melted coconut oil over them, then sprinkle on the smoked paprika, garlic powder, ground coriander, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything together until the vegetables are well-coated. This step is important because it allows all those wonderful flavors to cling to each piece.

Step 3: Roast the Veggies

Spread the seasoned vegetables onto a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast them in your preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through. This helps achieve that desired crispiness while ensuring even cooking. Keep an eye on them; you want them golden brown but not burnt.

Step 4: Add the Maple Glaze

Once your veggies are crispy and tender, remove them from the oven and drizzle with maple syrup. Give everything a gentle toss so that all the delicious caramelization happens evenly. This step adds that delightful sweetness which balances out the earthy flavors beautifully.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Transfer your crispy maple glazed carrots and Brussels sprouts to a serving platter and dig in! These veggies pair wonderfully with any main dish or can be enjoyed on their own as a healthy snack. Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Crispy Maple Glazed Carrots and Brussel Sprouts

Getting that perfect crispy texture while maintaining a delicious glaze is easy with a few helpful tips!

• Use fresh vegetables: Fresh brussels sprouts and carrots not only taste better but also have a firmer texture that holds up well during roasting, giving you that satisfying crunch.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Spacing out your veggies allows hot air to circulate evenly, helping them roast instead of steam. This is key for achieving that crispy finish.
• Preheat your baking sheet: Placing the baking sheet in the oven while it preheats helps create an immediate sizzle when the veggies hit the pan, promoting browning and crispiness.
• Adjust cooking times based on size: If your carrot batons or brussels sprouts are cut differently, they will cook at different rates. Keep an eye on them and remove any smaller pieces if they start to brown too quickly.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add other spices or herbs like thyme or rosemary for a flavor twist. This can elevate the dish to complement various main courses beautifully.

How to Serve Crispy Maple Glazed Carrots and Brussel Sprouts

Presenting your crispy maple glazed carrots and brussels sprouts can be as delightful as making them! Here are some creative ways to serve this dish that will impress your family and friends.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: This adds a burst of color and freshness that complements the sweetness of the maple syrup.
• Toasted sesame seeds: Sprinkling toasted sesame seeds over the top adds a nutty flavor and a little crunch.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and lemon dressing makes for a refreshing pairing. Its nutty flavor balances the sweetness of the glazed veggies.
• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The creamy texture of roasted sweet potatoes complements the crunchiness of this dish while adding an earthy flavor.
• Lentil Soup: A hearty lentil soup is perfect for those cozy nights, providing protein and warmth alongside your vibrant vegetable medley.
• Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: For those who enjoy meat, grilled chicken marinated in lemon and herbs brings brightness to your plate and pairs wonderfully with these roasted vegetables.

These serving suggestions will make your meal feel complete, ensuring you enjoy every bite of these deliciously crispy maple glazed carrots and brussels sprouts!

Make Ahead and Storage

This recipe for Crispy Maple Glazed Carrots and Brussel Sprouts is perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a big batch and enjoy these delicious veggies throughout the week. Here’s how to store them properly to maximize flavor and freshness.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover carrots and Brussels sprouts in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate within two hours of cooking.
• Enjoy leftovers within 3-4 days for the best taste.

Freezing

• Allow the cooked veggies to cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer them to freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible.
• These can be frozen for up to 3 months, but for best quality, aim to eat them sooner.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes.
• Alternatively, you can microwave them on medium power in short intervals, stirring occasionally until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Crispy Maple Glazed Carrots and Brussel Sprouts that might help you out!

Can I add other vegetables to the Crispy Maple Glazed Carrots and Brussel Sprouts?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other root vegetables like parsnips or sweet potatoes. Just make sure they have similar cooking times to ensure everything gets crispy and delicious.

How do I achieve the perfect crispiness for my Crispy Maple Glazed Carrots and Brussel Sprouts?

To get that crispy texture, ensure your vegetables are spread out in a single layer on the baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding, which can cause steaming instead of roasting. A hot oven is key—make sure it’s preheated!

Can I use a different sweetener instead of maple syrup in this recipe?

Yes! If you’re looking for alternatives, agave nectar or honey (if not strictly avoiding animal products) can work well. Just adjust the quantity based on your taste preference.

What should I serve with these Crispy Maple Glazed Carrots and Brussel Sprouts?

These veggies make a great side dish for almost any main course! They pair wonderfully with roasted chicken, grilled tofu, or even a hearty grain bowl.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this recipe for Crispy Maple Glazed Carrots and Brussel Sprouts! It’s a delightful combination of flavors that will brighten up any meal. Remember, cooking is all about experimenting and finding what makes you happy—so get creative! Enjoy every bite and happy cooking!