Maple Roasted Carrots with Tahini, Pomegranate, and Pistachios

Introduction

If you’re searching for a side dish that’s both vibrant and packed with flavor, this Maple Roasted Carrots with Tahini, Pomegranate, and Pistachios is just what you need. The sweet maple-roasted carrots pair perfectly with the creamy tahini sauce, while the pomegranate seeds and pistachios add a pop of freshness and crunch. This dish is not only stunning to look at but also incredibly delicious, offering a beautiful balance of flavors and textures. Whether for a holiday table or a weeknight dinner, this recipe will impress your guests and elevate your meal.

Why This Recipe is Perfect for You

This dish is a flavorful fusion of sweet, savory, and tangy, making it a unique and healthy side option. The maple syrup brings out the natural sweetness of the roasted carrots, while the tahini sauce adds a rich, nutty creaminess with a hint of lemon and white miso for complexity. The pomegranate seeds and pistachios bring contrasting textures—crisp and juicy meets crunchy and earthy. If you’re a fan of Middle Eastern flavors or simply looking for a way to spice up your usual roasted veggies, this recipe is for you.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds carrots, cleaned and trimmed
• 1 tablespoon oil (olive oil or avocado oil)
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup (for roasting)
• 2 tablespoons tahini
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon white miso paste
• 1 teaspoon maple syrup (for the sauce)
• 1 small clove garlic, grated
• 2 tablespoons water (or more to adjust sauce consistency)
• 2 tablespoons pomegranate seeds
• 2 tablespoons pistachios, chopped
• 1 tablespoon parsley or cilantro, chopped

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to get it hot and ready for roasting the carrots.

2. Prepare and Roast the Carrots

In a large bowl, toss 2 pounds of cleaned and trimmed carrots with 1 tablespoon oil and 1 tablespoon maple syrup. Make sure the carrots are evenly coated.

Spread the carrots in a single layer on a baking sheet to ensure even roasting. Roast the carrots in the preheated oven for 20-30 minutes, turning halfway through, until the carrots are tender and slightly caramelized. The roasting process brings out the natural sweetness of the carrots and gives them a beautiful golden color.

3. Make the Tahini Sauce

While the carrots are roasting, prepare the creamy tahini sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons tahini, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 1 teaspoon white miso paste, 1 teaspoon maple syrup, and the grated garlic clove. Gradually add 2 tablespoons of water, stirring until the sauce is smooth and reaches your desired consistency. You can add more water if needed to thin it out.

This sauce is a delicious blend of rich and tangy flavors, with the miso adding a subtle umami that complements the sweetness of the roasted carrots.

4. Assemble the Dish

Once the carrots are done roasting, transfer them to a serving platter. Drizzle the tahini sauce generously over the roasted carrots, making sure to coat them well for maximum flavor.

5. Add the Final Touches

To finish, sprinkle the dish with 2 tablespoons pomegranate seeds for a burst of color and tartness. Then, add 2 tablespoons chopped pistachios for crunch and 1 tablespoon chopped parsley or cilantro for a touch of freshness.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Serve the dish immediately while the carrots are still warm and the flavors are at their peak. This dish makes for a beautiful side to any meal, offering a perfect blend of sweet, savory, creamy, and crunchy in every bite.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Baking sheet for roasting the carrots
• Small bowl for mixing the tahini sauce
• Whisk for the sauce
• Serving platter

Tips and Shortcuts

• Pre-cut Carrots: To save time, you can use pre-cut baby carrots or pre-chopped carrot sticks, which are often available at grocery stores.
• Tahini Sauce Shortcut: If you’re in a rush, you can use a store-bought tahini dressing, but homemade is highly recommended for the best flavor.
• Roasting Variation: For extra caramelization, broil the carrots for the last 2 minutes of roasting.

Recipe Swaps and Variations

• Nut-Free Option: If you’re allergic to nuts, simply omit the pistachios or substitute with pumpkin seeds for a similar crunch.
• Flavor Swap: For a spicier twist, add a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the tahini sauce for a hint of heat.
• Veggie Variation: You can swap the carrots for parsnips or sweet potatoes for a slightly different flavor profile.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store the roasted carrots and tahini sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, gently reheat the carrots in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, then drizzle with the sauce just before serving. This helps the carrots retain their texture.

The tahini sauce can be thinned with a little water or lemon juice if it thickens after being refrigerated.

Food and Drink Pairings

This dish pairs well with a light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a dry rosé. The acidity of the wine complements the sweetness of the maple and the tanginess of the tahini sauce.

For non-alcoholic options, try pairing the dish with a mint-infused water or lemon iced tea for a refreshing, palate-cleansing experience.

As a side, this dish works wonderfully with grilled chicken, lamb, or even a simple quinoa salad for a complete Mediterranean-inspired meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I make the tahini sauce ahead of time?
A: Yes! The tahini sauce can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir and add a splash of water if it thickens before using.

Q: Can I roast the carrots without maple syrup?
A: Absolutely! If you prefer a less sweet version, you can omit the maple syrup. The roasting process will still caramelize the natural sugars in the carrots.

Q: Can I use another type of nut?
A: Yes, you can easily swap the pistachios for toasted almonds, walnuts, or pecans, depending on your preference.

Indulge in gourmet dining at home with our Filet Mignon with Shrimp and Lobster Cream Sauce recipe.

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Maple Roasted Carrots with Tahini, Pomegranate, and Pistachios

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• Author: Mia Martinez
• Total Time: 40 minutes

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Description

Enjoy these Maple Roasted Carrots with Tahini, Pomegranate, and Pistachios—a deliciously sweet, nutty, and vibrant side dish perfect for any occasion!

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Ingredients

2 pounds carrots, cleaned and trimmed

1 tablespoon oil

1 tablespoon maple syrup

2 tablespoons tahini

2 tablespoons lemon juice

1 teaspoon white miso paste

1 teaspoon maple syrup

1 small clove garlic, grated

2 tablespoons water (or more to adjust sauce consistency)

2 tablespoons pomegranate seeds

2 tablespoons pistachios, chopped

1 tablespoon parsley or cilantro, chopped

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Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Prepare and Roast the Carrots:

Toss the cleaned and trimmed carrots with the oil and 1 tablespoon of maple syrup in a bowl, ensuring they are well coated.

Arrange the carrots in a single layer on a baking sheet.

Roast for 20-30 minutes, turning halfway through, until the carrots are tender and slightly caramelized.

Make the Tahini Sauce:

In a small bowl, combine the tahini, lemon juice, white miso paste, 1 teaspoon of maple syrup, grated garlic, and enough water to create a smooth sauce with your desired consistency.

Assemble the Dish:

Once the carrots are roasted, transfer them to a serving platter.

Drizzle the tahini sauce over the carrots.

Top with pomegranate seeds, chopped pistachios, and a sprinkle of parsley or cilantro.

Serve and Enjoy:

Serve immediately as a vibrant, flavorful side dish.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4 servings