Description
This Roasted Carrots with Candied Pecans and Goat Cheese recipe offers a delightful combination of tender, caramelized carrots paired with sweet, crunchy pecans and creamy goat cheese. Perfect as a side dish, it balances savory and sweet flavors with a touch of freshness from parsley and optional honey drizzle.
Ingredients
Carrots
- 1 lb carrots, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces (or baby carrots)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Candied Pecans
- 1/2 cup pecan halves
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Finishing Touches
- 1/2 cup candied pecans (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for drizzling)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the carrots: If using whole carrots, peel them and cut into 1-inch pieces. If using baby carrots, simply wash and trim the ends to ensure they are clean and ready to roast.
- Season the carrots: Place the prepared carrots on the baking sheet. Drizzle evenly with olive oil and toss to coat all pieces. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste.
- Roast the carrots: Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. Stir halfway through cooking to ensure even caramelization and tenderness.
- Make the candied pecans: In a small pan over medium heat, combine pecan halves, brown sugar, cinnamon, maple syrup, and salt. Stir occasionally until the sugar dissolves and the pecans become shiny and coated, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.
- Assemble the dish: Once carrots are roasted, transfer them to a serving platter. Sprinkle the candied pecans over the top, then crumble goat cheese evenly over the carrots.
- Add finishing touches: If desired, drizzle honey over the assembled carrots for extra sweetness. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
- Serve: Serve immediately to enjoy the blend of sweet, savory, creamy, and crunchy textures and flavors.
Notes
- If using store-bought candied pecans, skip the cooking step for candied pecans and use them directly as a topping.
- To make the dish vegan, omit the goat cheese or substitute with a plant-based cheese alternative.
- Adjust seasoning by adding more or less salt and pepper based on preference.
- For extra flavor, sprinkle a little fresh thyme or rosemary on the carrots before roasting.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently before serving.