Print

Flavorful Maple Glazed Carrots with Crunchy Pecans

maple glazed carrots with crunchy pecans - featured image
Print Recipe

A quick and easy side dish featuring tender roasted carrots coated in a warm maple glaze and topped with toasted pecans for a delightful crunch. Perfect for busy weeknights or holiday meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450 g) carrots, peeled and cut into sticks or rounds
  • 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup (grade A recommended)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened (or olive oil for dairy-free)
  • ½ cup (60 g) pecans, roughly chopped and toasted
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, finely chopped (optional)
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Peel and cut 1 pound (450 g) of carrots into even sticks or rounds, about ½-inch thick.
  3. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the carrots with 1 tablespoon of softened unsalted butter (or olive oil), ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, and ¼ teaspoon garlic powder if using. Mix well to coat evenly.
  4. Spread the carrots on a rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat in a single layer.
  5. Roast the carrots in the oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until tender and edges start to brown.
  6. While the carrots roast, toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently until nutty and lightly browned.
  7. In a small bowl, melt the remaining 1 tablespoon butter with 3 tablespoons maple syrup. Stir in 1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme if using.
  8. Remove the carrots from the oven and drizzle the maple glaze over them. Toss gently to coat.
  9. Return the pan to the oven for an additional 5 minutes to let the glaze thicken and caramelize slightly.
  10. Transfer the carrots to a serving dish and sprinkle the toasted pecans on top before serving.

Notes

Use fresh carrots for best texture; if using frozen, thaw and pat dry thoroughly. To prevent maple glaze from burning, apply glaze after roasting and roast for only a few more minutes at moderate temperature. Toast pecans separately for best crunch and flavor. Butter can be substituted with olive oil or plant-based spread for dairy-free or vegan versions. Fresh thyme adds subtle herbal notes but is optional. Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days; reheat gently to preserve texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: maple glazed carrots, roasted carrots, pecans, easy side dish, holiday side, healthy vegetables, vegan option, gluten-free

Find it online: https://blixfood.com/flavorful-maple-glazed-carrots-with-crunchy-pecans-easy-recipe/