Carrots can often be overlooked, but when prepared correctly, they transform into a vibrant, flavorful centerpiece. This recipe for Maple-Glazed Baby Carrots with Whipped Goat Cheese and Candied Hazelnuts not only captures the natural sweetness of carrots but elevates it with rich goat cheese and crunchy hazelnuts. Picture this dish gracing your table during a cozy family dinner or a festive holiday gathering—it truly shines in any setting!
Why you’ll love this dish
This recipe is a delightful blend of sweet and savory, making it a perfect choice for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that is not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor and texture. It’s quick to prepare, taking less than an hour, which is ideal for busy weeknights or as a stunning side for special events. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, allowing you to indulge without breaking the bank.
"I made this dish for friends, and they couldn’t stop raving about the combination of flavors! The whipped goat cheese was the perfect creamy complement to the sweet, caramelized carrots." — A happy home cook
Preparing Maple-Glazed Baby Carrots with Whipped Goat Cheese & Candied Hazelnuts
This recipe is straightforward, yet it yields a gourmet finish. You’ll start by roasting baby carrots to caramelize their natural sugars. While that’s happening, you’ll make a creamy whipped goat cheese mixture and prepare nutty candied hazelnuts. The result? A beautiful presentation of colorful carrots topped with fluffy cheese and crunchy nuts, all drizzled with maple syrup for that extra touch of sweetness.
What you’ll need
Gather these ingredients to create this delightful side dish:
- 450 g (1 lb) baby carrots
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 150 g (5 oz) goat cheese, softened
- 60 ml (1/4 cup) heavy cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for the cheese mixture)
- Pinch of salt
- 60 g (1/2 cup / 2 oz) hazelnuts, roughly chopped
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- Fresh thyme leaves (optional garnish)
- Extra drizzle of maple syrup (optional garnish)
(Feel free to substitute Greek yogurt for a lighter option or use any nuts you have on hand for the candied topping.)
