🥕 Mediterranean Maple-Roasted Carrots with Feta & Pistachios
⭐ Serves: 4
⭐ Total Time: 35–40 minutes
⭐ Style: Mediterranean, sweet–savory, vibrant
Ingredients
Carrots
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2 lbs (900 g) carrots, peeled and sliced lengthwise
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2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
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2 tbsp pure maple syrup
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1 tbsp balsamic vinegar or fresh lemon juice
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½ tsp ground cumin
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½ tsp smoked paprika
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½ tsp sea salt
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¼ tsp black pepper
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1 tsp dried oregano or 1 tbsp fresh oregano (Mediterranean profile)
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Zest of 1 small lemon (optional but very Mediterranean)
Toppings
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½ cup crumbled feta (preferably sheep’s milk)
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¼ cup pistachios, roughly chopped
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1–2 tbsp fresh parsley, mint, or a combination
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1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil to drizzle
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Optional: pomegranate seeds or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for Mediterranean sweetness
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
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Preheat to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment.
2. Prepare and Season the Carrots
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Spread carrots on the baking sheet.
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Drizzle with olive oil, maple syrup, and balsamic (or lemon).
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Add cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, pepper, and lemon zest.
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Toss well and spread into a single layer for even roasting.
3. Roast
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Roast 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until browned on the edges and tender.
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For deeper Mediterranean caramelization, broil the last 2–3 minutes.
4. Finish with Mediterranean Toppings
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Transfer carrots to a platter.
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Sprinkle with feta and pistachios.
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Add parsley or mint.
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Drizzle with a bit of olive oil and (optional) balsamic glaze or pomegranate seeds.
Serving Suggestions (Mediterranean Style)
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Serve alongside grilled chicken, lamb, or Mediterranean salmon
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Add to a mezze platter with hummus, olives, pita, and roasted peppers
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Toss leftovers into a Mediterranean grain bowl with couscous or farro
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Serve over whipped feta or labneh for an even richer dish
Optional Mediterranean Variations
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With Tahini-Lemon Drizzle: Mix 2 tbsp tahini + 1 tbsp lemon + 1 tsp maple + warm water to thin.
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With Harissa: Add ½–1 tsp harissa paste to the roasting mixture.
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With Herbs: Thyme or rosemary can replace oregano for a Mediterranean herb twist.
