Roasted Carrots with Candied Pecans and Goat Cheese

The holiday season is upon us, and these Roasted Carrots with Candied Pecans and Goat Cheese will be a crowd-pleasing addition to your table. Picture tender, caramelized carrots with crunchy, sweetened pecans and a sprinkle of creamy, tangy goat cheese – it’s a side dish that feels as luxurious as it is simple to make. Whether for a special holiday feast or a comforting weeknight meal, this dish is sure to stand out!

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Why You’ll Love These Roasted Carrots with Candied Pecans and Goat Cheese

Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of carrots, and the combination with candied pecans and goat cheese is as delicious as it is visually appealing. Here are a few more reasons to fall in love with this recipe:

• Perfectly Balanced Flavors: The earthy carrots pair beautifully with the creamy tang of goat cheese and the crunchy sweetness of pecans.
• Crowd-Pleasing and Elegant: This side dish has a unique elegance that makes it perfect for holiday gatherings or special family dinners.
• Simple and Fast Preparation: With minimal ingredients and a few simple steps, you can create this show-stopping side dish with ease.

Ingredients for Roasted Carrots with Candied Pecans and Goat Cheese

To make this recipe, gather the following ingredients:

• Carrots: 2 pounds, peeled and ready for roasting
• Brown sugar: 1/2 cup for a caramelized touch
• Unsalted butter: 4 tablespoons, cut into pats for easy melting
• Seasoning: 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon pepper, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• Goat cheese: 4 ounces, crumbled for creamy texture
• Fresh thyme: 1 tablespoon, to garnish and add color

Candied Pecans:

• Butter: 2 tablespoons for richness
• Maple syrup: 3 tablespoons, adding depth to the sweetness
• Brown sugar: 1 tablespoon for a slightly caramelized coating
• Pecans: 1 cup, roughly chopped for texture
• Flaked sea salt: 1/4 teaspoon, enhancing the pecan flavor

Tools You’ll Need

• Baking sheet with foil or parchment paper
• Mixing bowl for candied pecans
• Small saucepan for melting butter and syrup
• Serving platter for presentation

Step-by-Step Instructions for Roasted Carrots with Candied Pecans and Goat Cheese

Follow these simple steps to create a stunning side dish:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.

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Step 2: Prepare the Carrots

Place peeled carrots in a single layer on the baking sheet. Sprinkle with brown sugar, pats of butter, salt, pepper, and cinnamon. This combination will help the carrots caramelize to perfection.

Step 3: Roast the Carrots

Roast the carrots for 50-60 minutes, turning them 3-4 times to ensure even cooking and caramelization. They’re done when tender and golden brown on the edges.

Step 4: Make the Candied Pecans

While the carrots are roasting, prepare the candied pecans. In a small pan over low heat, melt the butter. Add maple syrup, brown sugar, and pecans. Stir for about 2 minutes until the mixture thickens and coats the pecans. Remove from heat, stir in the flaked sea salt, and set aside.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

Once the carrots are roasted, transfer them to a serving dish. Sprinkle with crumbled goat cheese and the candied pecans. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves for a burst of color and herby freshness.

Serve warm and watch these carrots disappear off the table!

Tips for Perfect Roasted Carrots

• Even Slices: Try to cut the carrots to a similar thickness so they cook evenly.
• Turn Often: Rotating the carrots ensures they don’t burn and allows them to caramelize beautifully.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the candied pecans in advance to save time on the big day.

What to Serve with Roasted Carrots with Candied Pecans and Goat Cheese

These roasted carrots pair well with a range of holiday or seasonal dishes! Consider serving them alongside Roasted Rosemary Sweet Potatoes for a harmonious root vegetable medley. Or if you’re craving fresh greens, try our Refreshing Cucumber Salad as a light and crisp counterpoint. For a more rustic side, these Oven-Roasted Root Vegetables would complement the caramelized carrots beautifully.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until warm. Avoid microwaving, as it may soften the pecans and change the texture of the dish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use baby carrots instead of regular carrots?
Yes, you can use baby carrots. Just keep an eye on them as they may roast faster due to their smaller size.

Can I make this dish vegan?
Absolutely! Swap the butter with a vegan alternative, use a vegan maple syrup, and omit the goat cheese or use a plant-based version.

Is there a substitute for pecans?
Walnuts or almonds work well as substitutes if you don’t have pecans on hand, though pecans provide the ideal sweetness and texture.

Can I make this dish ahead?
You can prepare the components separately and combine them before serving. Roast the carrots and make the candied pecans a few hours ahead of time, then reheat and assemble.

Wrap-Up: A New Holiday Favorite

This Roasted Carrots with Candied Pecans and Goat Cheese recipe will become a staple on your holiday menu. Its beautiful presentation and incredible flavor will have your guests coming back for seconds. This easy side dish proves that a few simple ingredients can create a memorable dish full of texture and flavor.

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