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Quick Sweet Potatoes and Carrots

Helen T. Patterson
Tender roasted sweet potatoes and carrots coated in olive oil, maple syrup, and aromatic herbs.
Simple, nutritious, and naturally sweet, this plant-based side dish is perfect for everyday meals or festive occasions.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 32 minutes
Total Time 42 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 4

Equipment

  • 1 Large Baking Sheet
  • Cooking spray or parchment paper
  • 1 Medium Mixing Bowl
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Measuring spoons
  • Oven

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound sweet potatoes peeled and cut into ¾- to 1-inch pieces
  • 1 pound medium carrots peeled and cut into ¾- to 1-inch pieces
  • 1 ½ tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ¾ teaspoon dried thyme
  • ½ teaspoon dried rosemary
  • ¼ –½ teaspoon ground or grated nutmeg
  • Minced flat-leaf parsley for garnish optional

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the Oven for Perfect Roasting: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C).
    Position one oven rack in the center and a second rack in the lower third of the oven.
    Preheating ensures that your vegetables start cooking immediately and develop that beautiful caramelized exterior.
    Lightly coat a large baking sheet with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
  • Prepare the Sweet Potatoes and Carrots: Peel 1 pound of sweet potatoes and 1 pound of medium carrots.
    Cut both into evenly sized pieces, about ¾ to 1 inch thick.
    Keeping the pieces uniform helps them roast evenly, ensuring every bite is tender and perfectly cooked.
    Place the cut vegetables in a medium mixing bowl, giving you space to coat them thoroughly with oil, syrup, and spices.
  • Season the Vegetables: Add 1 ½ tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil and 2 tablespoons of pure maple syrup to the bowl.
    Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, ¾ teaspoon dried thyme, ½ teaspoon dried rosemary, and ¼ to ½ teaspoon of ground or freshly grated nutmeg.
    Using your hands or a large spoon, toss the vegetables gently but thoroughly.
    Make sure each piece is evenly coated with oil, syrup, and herbs. This step ensures maximum flavor in every bite.
  • Arrange Vegetables on the Baking Sheet: Transfer the seasoned vegetables to your prepared baking sheet.
    Spread them in a single layer, leaving a little space between each piece.
    Avoid overcrowding; crowded vegetables will steam instead of roast, preventing that golden-brown exterior.
    For optimal caramelization, give each piece a little breathing room.
  • First Roast on the Center Rack: Place the baking sheet on the center oven rack and roast for 20 minutes.
    This initial roast allows the vegetables to start softening while beginning to develop a subtle caramelized flavor.
    Set a timer and resist opening the oven too frequently, as maintaining consistent heat is key to perfect roasting.
  • Stir and Rearrange for Even Cooking: After 20 minutes, remove the baking sheet from the oven carefully using oven mitts.
    Gently stir the vegetables to redistribute them and flip the pieces slightly.
    Rearrange them in a single layer again to ensure even browning on all sides.
    This simple step enhances caramelization and guarantees tender, flavorful bites.
  • Final Roast on the Lower Rack: Return the baking sheet to the oven, this time placing it on the lower rack.
    Roast for an additional 10 to 12 minutes, or until the vegetables are fork-tender and the undersides are beautifully browned.
    Keep an eye on them during these last minutes to prevent burning while ensuring maximum flavor development.
  • Garnish and Serve: Once the vegetables are roasted to perfection, remove them from the oven and transfer them to a serving dish.
    Optionally, sprinkle with freshly minced flat-leaf parsley for a pop of color and a hint of fresh flavor.
    Serve warm as a nutritious, fiber-rich side dish that complements any main course.
  • Enjoy and Store Leftovers: Enjoy immediately for the best flavor and texture.
    If you have leftovers, allow them to cool slightly before transferring to an airtight container.
    Stored in the refrigerator, they remain delicious for up to 3–4 days and can be reheated in the oven to restore their roasted texture.

Notes

  • Use similarly sized vegetable pieces to ensure even cooking and consistent caramelization.
  • Opt for orange-fleshed sweet potatoes such as Garnet or Jewel; their natural sweetness balances perfectly with savory herbs.
  • Toss vegetables thoroughly in oil, syrup, and spices so every piece is coated evenly, which maximizes flavor.
  • Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet; giving each piece space ensures crisp edges rather than steaming.
  • Adjust nutmeg to taste; it adds warmth without overpowering the maple-herb flavor.
  • For added texture, consider lightly sprinkling chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts before serving.