Roasted Carrot, Pumpkin & Sweet Potato Bake with Feta and Maple Cranberry Drizzle

Description

This colorful roasted vegetable bake combines naturally sweet carrots, pumpkin, and sweet potatoes with creamy feta and a tangy maple-cranberry drizzle. It’s a comforting yet elegant side dish or light vegetarian main, perfect for holidays, family dinners, or meal prep.

Servings

4–6 servings

Ingredients

• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 cups pumpkin, cubed
• 2 medium sweet potatoes, cubed
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 100 g feta cheese, crumbled

Maple Cranberry Drizzle

• ¼ cup cranberry sauce
• 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tbsp water

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. Toss carrots, pumpkin, and sweet potatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread evenly on a baking tray and roast for 35–40 minutes, turning halfway, until tender and caramelized.
4. Meanwhile, whisk together cranberry sauce, maple syrup, balsamic vinegar, and water in a small saucepan. Simmer for 3–5 minutes until smooth.
5. Transfer roasted vegetables to a serving dish, sprinkle with crumbled feta, and drizzle generously with the warm maple-cranberry sauce.
6. Serve immediately.

Notes

• Fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley add extra flavor.
• Goat cheese can replace feta for a creamier finish.
• Add toasted pecans or walnuts for crunch.

Tips

• Cut vegetables into similar-sized pieces for even roasting.
• Don’t overcrowd the tray to achieve caramelization.
• Roast on parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~270
• Protein: 7 g
• Carbohydrates: 35 g
• Fat: 12 g
• Fiber: 6 g
• Sugar: 15 g

Health Benefits

• Rich in vitamin A for eye health.
• High in fiber to support digestion.
• Provides antioxidants from carrots, pumpkin, and cranberries.
• Feta contributes calcium and protein for bone health.
• Naturally sweet vegetables reduce the need for refined sugars.

Q&A

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Roast the vegetables up to 2 days ahead and reheat before adding feta and drizzle.

Q: Can I make it vegan?
Absolutely. Replace feta with a plant-based alternative or omit it.

Q: Can I freeze it?
The roasted vegetables freeze well for up to 2 months, but add fresh feta and drizzle after reheating.

Q: What pairs well with this dish?
It complements roasted chicken, turkey, grilled salmon, quinoa, or a fresh green salad.