Name: Maple Dijon Roasted Carrots with Walnuts, Goat Cheese, and Thyme Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 lb carrots (about 10 medium), washed and scrubbed; 2 tbsp maple syrup; 1 tbsp Dijon mustard; 1 tbsp olive oil; Pinch coarse sea salt; Fresh cracked black pepper, to taste; ¼ cup walnut pieces; 2 oz goat cheese, crumbled; 5-6 sprigs fresh thyme, leaves removed

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 36 reviews

If you’re looking for a dish that’s both comforting and sophisticated, you’ll absolutely love this Maple Dijon Roasted Carrots with Walnuts, Goat Cheese, and Thyme Recipe. It balances the natural sweetness of roasted carrots with the tangy bite of Dijon mustard and the rich creaminess of goat cheese. The walnuts add a perfect toasted crunch, while fresh thyme brings an herbal brightness that ties everything together beautifully. This recipe is simple enough for a weeknight but impressive enough to serve at your next dinner party.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white oval dish holds a neat row of ten whole roasted carrots laid side by side, showing a mix of colors including deep purple, orange, and pale yellow. The carrots have a slight shine and are speckled with black pepper. Each carrot still has a short green top, clustered at the top edge of the dish. The dish is set on a white marbled surface, and a white cloth is partially visible on the side. The overall look is clean and bright with a fresh, natural feel. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Each ingredient in this recipe contributes a unique flavor or texture that makes the dish memorable. The simplicity of just a few well-chosen items means you can expect a delightful balance of sweet, savory, creamy, and crunchy in every bite.

Carrots (2 lb): Choose medium-sized, firm carrots for the best roasting results and natural sweetness.
Maple syrup (2 tbsp): Adds a gentle, natural sweetness that caramelizes beautifully in the oven.
Dijon mustard (1 tbsp): Brings a sharp, tangy note that contrasts wonderfully with the maple syrup.
Olive oil (1 tbsp): Helps the carrots roast evenly and enhances their flavor with a subtle richness.
Walnut pieces (¼ cup): Provide a satisfying crunchy texture and earthy flavor when toasted.
Coarse sea salt (pinch): Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
Fresh cracked black pepper: Adds a gentle heat and depth to the dish.
Goat cheese (2 oz, crumbled): Offers a creamy, tangy contrast that melts slightly from the warm carrots.
Fresh thyme (5-6 sprigs, leaves removed): Infuses the dish with a fresh, herbaceous aroma.

How to Make Maple Dijon Roasted Carrots with Walnuts, Goat Cheese, and Thyme Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Carrots

Begin by heating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it warms up, wash and scrub your carrots thoroughly. Trim the ends and, if needed, cut them lengthwise so they’re roughly the same size for even roasting. The carrots are the star here, so treating them with care upfront helps ensure they roast to perfection.

Step 2: Mix the Maple Dijon Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and olive oil until smooth. This glossy glaze is the magic behind the dish’s sweet and savory allure. The maple syrup caramelizes, while the mustard cuts through with a subtle tang, creating a flavor punch that transforms simple carrots into something extraordinary.

Step 3: Toss Carrots and Roast

Place the carrots in a large bowl, pour the glaze over them, and toss until every piece is nicely coated. Transfer them to a roasting pan or baking sheet in a single layer — crowded carrots steam instead of roast, so give them a bit of space. Sprinkle with a pinch of coarse sea salt and fresh cracked black pepper. Roast for about 25 to 30 minutes until the carrots are tender and caramelized around the edges. Halfway through roasting, add the walnut pieces so they toast lightly alongside the carrots.

Step 4: Finish with Goat Cheese and Thyme

Once out of the oven, transfer the carrots and toasted walnuts to a serving dish. While still warm, sprinkle generously with crumbled goat cheese. The cheese will soften slightly, creating a creamy contrast. Finally, scatter fresh thyme leaves over the top for that beautiful burst of herbal freshness that elevates every bite.

How to Serve Maple Dijon Roasted Carrots with Walnuts, Goat Cheese, and Thyme Recipe

A white plate holds a neat arrangement of whole roasted carrots in three colors: orange, purple, and pale yellow. The carrots are lined up with their tops pointing outward and their roots closer to the center, showing a slightly shiny texture from roasting. On top of the carrots, there are small bits of white cheese scattered along with pieces of light brown walnuts and some fresh green herb sprigs. The plate sits on a white marbled surface next to a white cloth and a long, vintage silver fork with a little thyme near the fork's base. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A simple sprinkle of additional fresh thyme or a drizzle of extra maple syrup can add a touch of elegance at serving. For a color pop, consider a handful of pomegranate seeds — they offer a juicy burst that complements the richness perfectly.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with roasted meats like chicken or pork, and it’s a wonderful side for grain bowls as well. Think quinoa, farro, or wild rice for a hearty, wholesome meal. Its flavor profile also works well alongside creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch, serve these carrots on a rustic wooden platter topped with scattered thyme sprigs and extra goat cheese crumbles. You can even layer them over a bed of mixed greens and toasted nuts as a warm salad. The combination of textures and colors makes it a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld and improve a bit after resting, though the goat cheese might soften and spread more.

Freezing

Because of the creamy goat cheese and fresh thyme, freezing isn’t recommended as these ingredients don’t hold up well. Instead, try to enjoy this dish fresh or within a few days of making it.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a low oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10-15 minutes to preserve the texture or warm briefly in a skillet over low heat. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the carrots mushy and the goat cheese grainy.

FAQs

Can I use other nuts instead of walnuts?

Absolutely! Pecans or almonds work beautifully and add their own unique crunch and flavor. Just toast them lightly to bring out their best.

Is this recipe suitable for vegans?

To make it vegan, simply omit the goat cheese or replace it with a plant-based cheese alternative. The dish will still be delicious and packed with flavor.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare and roast the carrots a day in advance, then add goat cheese and fresh thyme just before serving for best freshness.

What’s the best way to pick carrots for this recipe?

Select firm carrots with vibrant orange color and avoid those with cracks or wilted tops. Medium-sized carrots roast more evenly and develop a sweeter flavor.

Can I use dried thyme instead of fresh?

Fresh thyme is ideal for its bright flavor and presentation, but if you only have dried, use about 1 teaspoon sprinkled during roasting. Add fresh herbs at the end if possible.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about this Maple Dijon Roasted Carrots with Walnuts, Goat Cheese, and Thyme Recipe that makes it a standout side or even a light main dish. It manages to feel both elegant and homey at the same time. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover how these simple ingredients turn into a delectable, soul-satisfying experience. Trust me, once you make it, roasted carrots will never be the same again!

Maple Dijon Roasted Carrots with Walnuts, Goat Cheese, and Thyme Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need