Elevate Dinner with Roasted Carrots, Pecans & Goat Cheese

Roasted Carrots with Candied Pecans and Goat Cheese is a dish that will elevate your vegetable game to new heights. Imagine tender, caramelized carrots dancing with the crunch of candied pecans and the creamy tang of goat cheese; it’s a flavor fiesta that even your dinner guests won’t forget.

This delightful dish has become a staple at my family gatherings. Whether it’s Thanksgiving or a casual Sunday dinner, Roasted Carrots with Candied Pecans and Goat Cheese always steals the show. The aroma wafting from the oven is enough to make anyone drool in anticipation, and trust me, the taste is even better than it smells.

Ingredients for Roasted Carrots with Candied Pecans and Goat Cheese

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Carrots: Choose fresh, firm carrots for optimal sweetness and flavor; baby carrots work well too.
• Candied Pecans: You can buy these pre-made or make them at home using sugar and butter for an extra crunch.
• Goat Cheese: Opt for soft goat cheese for creaminess that pairs perfectly with the roasted veggies.
• Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil to enhance the flavors of the roasted carrots.
• Honey: A drizzle of honey adds sweetness and helps caramelize the carrots beautifully.
• Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings that are essential for bringing out all the flavors in this dish.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Roasted Carrots with Candied Pecans and Goat Cheese

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This temperature ensures those beautiful carrots roast up perfectly golden brown while keeping their natural sweetness.

Step 2: Prepare the Carrots

Wash and peel your carrots if needed. Cut them into uniform pieces—about two inches long—so they cook evenly. Toss them in a bowl with olive oil, salt, pepper, and honey until well-coated.

Step 3: Roast Those Beauties

Spread the seasoned carrots evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast in your preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until they are tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through for even cooking.

Step 4: Add Candied Pecans

While your carrots are roasting, chop your candied pecans into bite-sized pieces. When the carrots are done roasting, take them out of the oven and sprinkle those crunchy pecans over the top.

Step 5: Crumble Goat Cheese

Now comes the best part! Crumble soft goat cheese generously over the warm roasted carrots. The heat will slightly melt it, creating a creamy texture that blends beautifully.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy

Transfer your masterpiece to a serving platter. Drizzle any remaining honey on top if you like it extra sweet. Serve warm alongside your favorite main dish or enjoy it solo as an irresistible vegetarian option.

And there you have it—Roasted Carrots with Candied Pecans and Goat Cheese! Each bite offers a delightful combination of sweet, savory, crunchy, and creamy that will leave everyone at your table begging for seconds (or thirds).

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven and preparing your ingredients. Roast the carrots first for optimal caramelization, then candy the pecans while waiting. Finally, crumble the goat cheese just before serving for that fresh zing.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out carrots for sweet potatoes or parsnips if you’re feeling adventurous. Use walnuts instead of pecans for a different nutty flavor or add a drizzle of honey for extra sweetness. Customize as you like!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, ensuring the texture remains delightful.

Roasting these carrots always reminds me of that dinner party where my friends devoured them like they were candy! The look on their faces was priceless—who knew veggies could steal the show?

FAQs

What ingredients do I need for Roasted Carrots with Candied Pecans and Goat Cheese?

To prepare Roasted Carrots with Candied Pecans and Goat Cheese, you will need fresh carrots, olive oil, salt, and pepper for roasting. For the candied pecans, gather sugar, butter, and pecan halves. Finally, goat cheese will add a rich and creamy texture to the dish. This combination of ingredients creates a delightful balance between sweet and savory flavors.

How long should I roast the carrots?

Roasting time for carrots typically ranges from 25 to 35 minutes at 400°F (200°C). The exact time may vary based on the size of your carrot pieces. You want them to be tender yet retain a slight crunch. Check for doneness by piercing a carrot with a fork; it should go in easily without falling apart.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Roasted Carrots with Candied Pecans and Goat Cheese ahead of time. Roast the carrots and make the candied pecans in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the carrots briefly in the oven and add goat cheese just before serving for optimal flavor.

What can I serve with Roasted Carrots with Candied Pecans and Goat Cheese?

Roasted Carrots with Candied Pecans and Goat Cheese pairs beautifully with grilled meats or as part of a vegetarian meal. Consider serving them alongside dishes like roasted chicken or pork tenderloin. They also complement salads or grain bowls well, adding an elegant touch to any dining experience.

Conclusion for Roasted Carrots with Candied Pecans and Goat Cheese

Roasted Carrots with Candied Pecans and Goat Cheese is a delightful dish that combines sweet, savory, and creamy flavors. The recipe is simple yet elegant, making it perfect for any occasion. Remember to roast your carrots until they are tender but still slightly crisp for the best texture. Adding candied pecans elevates the dish further while goat cheese provides a rich creaminess that balances everything perfectly. Enjoy this vibrant side dish at your next gathering!

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Roasted Carrots with Candied Pecans and Goat Cheese

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Roasted Carrots with Candied Pecans and Goat Cheese is a vibrant dish that turns simple vegetables into a gourmet delight. Perfectly roasted carrots are complemented by sweet, crunchy candied pecans and creamy goat cheese, creating an unforgettable flavor combination. Ideal for holiday gatherings or weeknight dinners, this easy recipe will impress your family and friends alike.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb fresh carrots, peeled and cut into 2-inch pieces
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp pepper
• 2 tbsp honey
• ½ cup candied pecans, chopped
• 4 oz soft goat cheese, crumbled

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a bowl, toss the carrots with olive oil, salt, pepper, and honey until evenly coated.
3. Spread the carrots on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
4. Once cooked, sprinkle chopped candied pecans over the roasted carrots.
5. Top with crumbled goat cheese before serving warm.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
• Calories: 230
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 250mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 15mg

Keywords: For variety, swap carrots with sweet potatoes or parsnips. Add more honey for extra sweetness or use walnuts instead of pecans for a different flavor profile.