Roasted Carrots with Candied Pecans and Goat Cheese (2024)

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Dive into the flavors of fall with these Roasted Carrots topped with sweet Candied Pecans and tangy Goat Cheese. A side dish that’s not only bursting with color but also rich in taste. Perfect for cozy dinners or holiday gatherings, it’s a recipe that’s sure to impress.

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Fall is here, and I’m diving deep into those warm and comforting recipes we all crave. Carrots? They’re not just for snacking or salads anymore. Ever thought of giving those humble carrots a makeover? I’m talking roasted to perfection, draped in candied pecans, and sprinkled with a touch of goat cheese. Yep, it’s as dreamy as it sounds!

Get ready to be wowed with this Roasted Carrots with Candied Pecans and Goat Cheese recipe. It’s the kind of side that might just steal the show at your next dinner! I think this would make the perfect thanksgiving side dish or honestly any fall side dish recipe.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS hide

1 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

2 Ingredients:

3 How to Make Roasted Carrots:

4 Recipe Variations

6 More Holiday Side You’ll Love

7 Roasted Carrots with Candied Pecan and Goat Cheese

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Sweet & Savory Symphony: Dive into a melody of flavors with the sweetness of brown sugar and maple syrup balanced perfectly with the rich depth of pecans and the tang of goat cheese. And let’s not forget that hint of cinnamon and fresh thyme that elevates the dish to a whole new level.
  • Perfect for Any Occasion: Serving this for a cozy family dinner? Check! Holiday gathering? Double check! Potluck with friends (aka Friendsgiving)? You bet! No matter the occasion, these carrots will shine and have everyone coming back for seconds.
  • Seasonal Stars: Fall is in the air, and with it comes the crave-worthy flavors of earthy roasted carrots, sweet candied pecans, and that creamy crumble of goat cheese. This dish literally tastes like autumn on a plate!

So grab your loose-fitting pants and get ready for a feast. Let’s start off by gathering the ingredients you’ll need to make this fabulous fall side dish!

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Ingredients:

Let’s begin by gathering up the ingredients to make these roasted carrots. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • carrots
  • brown sugar
  • brown sugar
  • unsalted butter
  • salt and pepper
  • ground cinnamon
  • crumbled goat cheese
  • fresh thyme

You’ll also need these to make the candied pecans:

  • butter
  • maple syrup
  • brown sugar
  • pecan halves
  • flaked sea salt

Let’s put this dish together.

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How to Make Roasted Carrots:

I’ll walk you through the recipe here, but you can find the full details and ingredient list in a printable recipe card at the end of this post.

  1. I began by oven roasting carrots with butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt and pepper.
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  1. While the carrots roasted, in another pan I sautéd pecans with a bit more butter, brown sugar, maple syrup (for that great fall flavor) and a sprinkle of flaked sea salt.
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  1. Once the carrots were fork tender, they came out of the oven. I plated them and sprinkled them with goat cheese crumbles and the candied pecans I had just made.
  2. For more color and flavor, I finished things off with fresh thyme leaves.
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That’s it! Perfection.

My Roasted Carrots with Candied Pecans and Goat Cheese were exactly what I had in my mind when I saw that plate of carrots at the dinner. I’m thrilled I was able to recreate what I had imagined.

The tangy goat cheese compliments the sweetness of the pecans wonderfully. The sprinkle of thyme is the perfect finishing touch and a compliment to the season.

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Recipe Variations

Enjoy this recipe and want to try a different variation? You’ve got it! Here are a few ideas to get your started.

  • Spicy Kick: For those who like a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a drizzle of chili oil over the roasted carrots before serving.
  • Vegan Twist: Swap the goat cheese for vegan feta or cashew-based cheese. For the candied pecans, use coconut oil instead of butter.
  • Nut Alternatives: If pecans aren’t your thing or you’re just looking to mix things up, try candied walnuts or almonds instead.
  • Roasted Veggie Medley: Introduce other root veggies to the party. Parsnips, beets, or sweet potatoes can be roasted alongside the carrots for a vibrant and varied dish.
  • Citrusy Fresh: Add a zesty twist with a sprinkle of orange or lemon zest over the roasted carrots. The citrus notes can provide a refreshing contrast to the sweet and savory components.
  • Cheese Variations: If goat cheese isn’t up your alley, try shaved Parmesan, crumbled feta, or even chunks of creamy brie. Each cheese brings its own unique flavor to the dish.
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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use baby carrots instead of regular carrots?

Totally! Baby carrots are a great substitute. They might roast a tad quicker, so just keep an eye on them. That golden-brown caramelization is what we’re aiming for!

I’m out of maple syrup, any alternatives?

No sweat, friend! Honey works wonders as a substitute. You could also use agave nectar or even a touch of molasses for a deeper flavor.

Not a fan of goat cheese, what else can I use?

That’s the beauty of cooking – make it your own! Feta cheese or even blue cheese can offer a similar tangy kick. Or if you prefer something creamier, a sprinkle of fresh Parmesan or ricotta could be delish!

How long do these roasted carrots keep?

These babies taste best straight out of the oven. But if you do have leftovers, pop them in an airtight container and refrigerate. They’ll be good for 2-3 days. Just give them a little reheat before serving!

Can I prep the candied pecans ahead of time?

Absolutely! Make those pecans in advance and store them in an airtight container at room temperature. It’s a lifesaver, especially if you’re prepping for a big meal or gathering.

What other herbs can I use besides thyme?


Rosemary is a great alternative with its aromatic and woody essence. Or even a sprinkle of parsley for some fresh vibes. Don’t be afraid to play around and find what tingles your taste buds!

As you have probably noticed, something sweet can be a nice complement to a savory meal. This is why people often serve something like candied yams or sweet butternut squash at Thanksgiving.

If you’re looking for a dish that’s a bit different, give these carrots a try. They are simple to make, and the flavor combination is on point.

Happy cooking!

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More Holiday Side You’ll Love

  • Mashed Butternut Squash
  • Waldorf Salad
  • Roasted Brussels Spouts Salad
  • Cheesy Cauliflower Gratin
  • Broccolini Salad

I truly hope you give these roasted carrots a try – they’re a game-changer. It’s amazing how a few ingredients can elevate a dish from everyday to extraordinary. And hey, if you do whip it up, please leave a comment and a 5-star rating below.

Want more from Inspired by Charm?Join theIBC Mailing Listfor inspiration in your inbox! Follow along onInstagramandTikTokfor daily updates and behind-the-scenes looks at my processes. There’s even more inspiration onFacebookandPinterest!

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Roasted Carrots with Candied Pecan and Goat Cheese

These Roasted Carrots with Candied Pecan and Goat Cheese are a delicious and flavorful side dish for the fall and holiday season.

5 from 14 votes

Print Pin Rate

Course: Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Keyword: candied, carrots, goat cheese, holiday, roasted carrots

Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 1 hour hour

Total Time: 1 hour hour 15 minutes minutes

Servings: 6 people

Calories: 434kcal

Ingredients

Candied Pecans:

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.

  • Then line a baking sheet with foil. Place the carrots in a single layer on the baking sheet. Sprinkle with the brown sugar and evenly distribute the pats of butter. Also, sprinkle with salt, pepper, and cinnamon.

  • Place in the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes or until the carrots are just fork tender. During baking, turn the carrots 3 or 4 times.

  • While the carrots are roasting, prepare the candied pecans by melting the butter in a small pan on low heat. Once the butter is melted, add the maple syrup, brown sugar, and pecans. Stir about 2 minutes until the mixture thickens.

  • Remove the candied pecans from the heat and stir in the flaked sea salt. Set aside.

  • Once the carrots are cooked, put them in a serving dish. Sprinkle them evenly with the candied pecans and goat cheese. Finish the dish with a sprinkle of fresh thyme leaves.

Video

Nutrition

Calories: 434kcal | Carbohydrates: 44g | Protein: 7g | Fat: 28g | Saturated Fat: 11g | Cholesterol: 39mg | Sodium: 700mg | Potassium: 613mg | Fiber: 6g | Sugar: 34g | Vitamin A: 25930IU | Vitamin C: 13mg | Calcium: 126mg | Iron: 2mg

Roasted Carrots with Candied Pecans and Goat Cheese (2024)

FAQs

What to eat with goat cheese? ›

Goat cheese adds a tangy, creamy flavor to any dish and it pairs well with vegetables and grains. You can use it to stuff proteins, as a spread for toast and or add it to a salad. Recipes like Apple-Cranberry Spinach Salad with Goat Cheese and Roasted Root Vegetables with Goat Cheese Polenta are flavorful and savory.

How to eat sweet goat cheese? ›

In summer, you might combine fresh goat cheese with slices of peach, apricot or nectarine, or even red berries (cherries or redcurrants). Once autumn arrives, choose apples, pears, figs or grapes as the perfect accompaniment to more aged cheeses.

What vegetable goes well with goat cheese? ›

Marinated grilled vegetables with whipped goat cheese – eggplants, peppers, zucchini, asparagus, and onions, marinated and grilled till soft on the inside and charred on the outside, then doused in garlicky marinade, and served with whipped goat cheese on the side.

Is it OK to eat goat cheese everyday? ›

How much goat cheese should you eat in a day? Usually, about one ounce daily is a good measure. It could give you all its nutritional benefits without piling up calories or fat in your diet.

What fruit goes best with goat cheese? ›

Plump, juicy Oregold peaches, grown in Southern Oregon, have a deep sweetness and light tang, making them a terrific match for bright-tasting, tangy, soft, and creamy goat cheese. Slice fresh peaches, or serve dollops of Oregold peach preserves alongside Laura Chenel Coney Chévre.

Is goat cheese good for you? ›

Goat cheese is a nutritious dairy product that is packed with vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats. Its lower levels of lactose make it a better choice for people with an intolerance to cow's milk. Creamy and distinct in flavor, goat cheese is a dairy product enjoyed around the world.

Is goat cheese served warm or cold? ›

Always serve goat cheese at room temperature. Bring it out of the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving, if possible. Remember, goat cheese is great at almost any time of day and goes well in so many recipes, making the simplest foods spectacular.

What crackers go best with goat cheese? ›

Chevre with Water Crackers

When you have a cheese as sharp and intense as a goat cheese, it's best not to compete too much. Goats cheese, without any accompaniments, is best served with a plain water cracker.

Do you eat goat cheese by itself? ›

Eat goat cheese on its own.

Goat cheese is rich enough in flavor and creaminess to make a great accompaniment to crackers or bread. You can purchase goat cheese that has been seasoned with herbs, or season pieces of goat cheeses yourself with your favorite herbs.

Is goat cheese healthy? ›

A serving of goat cheese delivers 6 grams of filling protein along with a powerful combination of calcium, phosphorus and copper — nutrients that are essential for healthy bones ( 2 ). Plus, goat cheese provides healthy fats, including medium-chain fatty acids, that can improve satiety and benefit weight loss ( 3 ).

Can you eat goat cheese plain? ›

Both for Eating and Cooking

I have been eating Roth Goat Cheese for over a year now. I love to slice the log and just eat it. I have also used it in some of my recipes instead of cream cheese. it adds a tangy and savory taste to however you use it.

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