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Caramelized Carrots with Walnut Crumble

A vibrant and cozy side dish featuring roasted carrots topped with a crunchy walnut crumble and savory spices, perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday tables.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time40 minutes
Course: Side Dish, Vegetable
Cuisine: American, Gluten-Free
Keyword: Caramelized Carrots, Easy Side Dish, Gluten-Free, Roasted Vegetables, Walnut Crumble
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 150kcal

Ingredients

Vegetables

  • 1 pound Carrots, cut into sticks or coins Use firm, bright carrots.
  • 1 pound Beets, optional, cut smaller than carrots Golden beets are recommended for less staining.

Nuts

  • 1 cup In-shell walnuts, toasted and chopped Use in-shell walnuts for better flavor and texture.

Oils and Sweeteners

  • 2 tablespoons Olive oil Enough to coat vegetables.
  • 1 tablespoon Maple syrup or honey Adds sweetness for caramelization.

Spices

  • 1 teaspoon Cumin For a warm base flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Coriander Enhances the savory profile.
  • 1 teaspoon Mild paprika To add warmth without overwhelming sweetness.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Cinnamon or allspice, optional For added warmth.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Aleppo pepper or crushed red pepper, optional For a bit of heat.

Acid and Fresh Herbs

  • 1 tablespoon Apple cider vinegar or lemon juice To brighten the finished dish.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh parsley or dill For freshness.
  • 1 teaspoon Orange zest For added fragrance.

Instructions

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  • Line a sturdy sheet pan with parchment paper.
  • Cut the carrots and beets (if using) into pieces of uniform size.
  • Toss the vegetables with olive oil, maple syrup or honey, and spices until coated evenly.

Roasting

  • Spread the vegetables in a single layer on the prepared pan, ensuring plenty of space between them.
  • Roast for 15 minutes, then flip or stir the vegetables and roast for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until fork tender and golden.
  • Once done, drizzle with apple cider vinegar or lemon juice and sprinkle with chopped walnuts, orange zest, and fresh herbs.
  • Toss gently and taste for seasoning.

Notes

Make it vegan by substituting honey with maple syrup. For a nut-free version, substitute walnuts with pumpkin or sunflower seeds. Can also be made in an air fryer.