Name: Harissa Maple Carrots with Whipped Feta Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 1/2 pounds carrots (peeled and halved lengthwise); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon harissa paste; 2 tablespoons maple syrup; 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese; 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 tablespoon olive oil (for whipped feta); 1 tablespoon water (as needed for consistency); Chopped fresh parsley or mint for garnish (optional); Pomegranate seeds or chopped pistachios for topping (optional)

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If you’re ready to jazz up your vegetable game, the Harissa Maple Carrots with Whipped Feta Recipe is about to become your new obsession. Roasted carrots are tossed in a spicy-sweet harissa and maple glaze, then nestled on a bed of tangy whipped feta that’s as smooth as silk. Finished with a riot of colorful garnishes, this dish captures that magical blend of comfort, color, and bold Mediterranean flavor—all with simple ingredients you likely have on hand. Perfect as a showstopper side or a crave-worthy vegetarian centerpiece, this recipe is destined for repeat appearances at your table.

Harissa Maple Carrots with Whipped Feta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Harissa Maple Carrots with Whipped Feta Recipe is beautifully straightforward. Each ingredient plays a starring role—melding heat, sweetness, and tang while keeping things bright and lively. Here’s what you’ll need, along with a few helpful tips for each:

Carrots: The hero of our dish; choose firm, vibrant carrots for optimal sweetness and color.
Olive Oil: Adds richness and helps the carrots caramelize perfectly in the oven.
Harissa Paste: This North African chili paste delivers gentle heat and beautiful depth—adjust to your spice preference.
Maple Syrup: The natural sweetness balances harissa’s spice and helps achieve irresistible roasted edges.
Kosher Salt: Enhances flavors and draws out the carrots’ natural sweetness.
Black Pepper: Lends gentle warmth and complexity.
Feta Cheese: Use good-quality feta for a creamy, tangy base that stands up to the caramelized carrots.
Plain Greek Yogurt: Lightens and smooths the whipped feta, making it irresistibly creamy.
Lemon Juice: Adds a punch of brightness, keeping the flavors fresh and lively.
Olive Oil (for whipped feta): Lends extra silkiness to the whipped feta.
Water: Just a splash to achieve the perfect whipped feta consistency, use only as needed.
Chopped Fresh Parsley or Mint (optional): Fresh herbs bring a pop of color and herbaceous lift.
Pomegranate Seeds or Chopped Pistachios (optional): For a burst of color and crunch, these garnishes make the dish restaurant-worthy.

How to Make Harissa Maple Carrots with Whipped Feta Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Carrots

Start by peeling your carrots and slicing them lengthwise for quick, even roasting. This creates beautiful, long planks that caramelize at the edges and look absolutely stunning on the plate. Gather all your ingredients for easy assembly—you’re just a few steps away from something special with this Harissa Maple Carrots with Whipped Feta Recipe.

Step 2: Toss Carrots with Harissa and Maple

In a large bowl, combine the carrots with olive oil, harissa paste, maple syrup, kosher salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a large spoon to toss everything until the carrots are evenly coated—the glaze should cling to every nook and cranny for deeply flavorful roasting.

Step 3: Roast to Perfection

Arrange the coated carrots on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer. Make sure they’re not crowded, or you’ll miss out on those gorgeous caramelized edges. Roast at 400°F (200°C) for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping halfway, until the carrots are tender and tinged with golden, caramelized spots.

Step 4: Whip Up the Feta Spread

While the carrots roast, add feta, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and olive oil to a food processor. Blend until the mixture is fluffy and creamy, pausing to scrape down the sides. If the mixture is too thick, drizzle in a bit of water to achieve a spreadable, silky consistency. This whipped feta layer absolutely makes the Harissa Maple Carrots with Whipped Feta Recipe sing!

Step 5: Assemble and Garnish

Spoon the whipped feta onto a serving platter (or individual plates for a dinner-party vibe), swirling it into a lush, cloudlike base. Arrange the roasted carrots over the whipped feta, then finish with a shower of fresh herbs and a sprinkle of pomegranate seeds or pistachios. Enjoy warm, or let cool to room temperature—the flavors only get better as they mingle.

How to Serve Harissa Maple Carrots with Whipped Feta Recipe

Garnishes

The magic is in the finishing touch: a handful of chopped parsley or mint adds freshness, while pomegranate seeds or crushed pistachios bring color and crunch. These little accents transform the Harissa Maple Carrots with Whipped Feta Recipe from simple roasted veggies into a true centerpiece that’s both elegant and approachable.

Side Dishes

Pair this dish with herbed couscous, lemony quinoa, or warm flatbreads for a Mediterranean-inspired spread. It fits right in with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or any casual gathering where you want vibrant flavors and effortless style.

Creative Ways to Present

Try making individual appetizer plates by swirling the whipped feta on small dishes and stacking roasted carrots on top—perfect for dinner parties. Or, serve family-style on a large platter for a festive meal. You can even layer it in mason jars for a picnic or potluck—Harissa Maple Carrots with Whipped Feta Recipe is endlessly adaptable.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers (which is rare in our house), transfer the carrots and whipped feta to airtight containers. Store them separately to keep the textures just right. Both will keep well for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing

While you can freeze the roasted carrots for up to 1 month, note that their texture may soften upon thawing. The whipped feta is best enjoyed fresh, so freeze only the carrots if needed.

Reheating

Reheat the carrots in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through, about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving the whipped feta; let it come to room temperature instead and give it a quick stir for the perfect creamy finish.

FAQs

Can I make Harissa Maple Carrots with Whipped Feta Recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can roast the carrots and prepare the whipped feta a day in advance. Wait to assemble until just before serving for the best texture and presentation.

What can I use instead of harissa paste?

If you can’t find harissa, try mixing together chili paste with a pinch of smoked paprika, cumin, and a little garlic. Sriracha can be used in a pinch, though the flavor profile will be a bit different.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! The Harissa Maple Carrots with Whipped Feta Recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it perfect for entertaining friends with dietary restrictions (just double-check your harissa paste for additives).

Can I use rainbow carrots?

Absolutely—rainbow carrots make this dish look even more vibrant and festive, adding a stunning spectrum of color that’s perfect for special occasions.

How spicy is this dish?

The recipe delivers a gentle kick without overwhelming heat. If you’re sensitive to spice, start with less harissa and add more to taste—the maple syrup helps balance things out beautifully.

Final Thoughts

Give this Harissa Maple Carrots with Whipped Feta Recipe a try the next time you want a dish that’s as gorgeous as it is delicious. It transforms humble carrots into something truly crave-worthy and makes any meal feel like a celebration. Trust me—friends and family will be asking for the recipe before they’ve even finished their first bite!

Harissa Maple Carrots with Whipped Feta Recipe

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4.7 from 9 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

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Description

These Harissa Maple Carrots with Whipped Feta are a flavor-packed side dish that combines the sweetness of maple syrup with the spiciness of harissa, all topped with creamy whipped feta. It’s a perfect dish for any meal, whether as a side or appetizer.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Carrots:

1 1/2 pounds carrots (peeled and halved lengthwise)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon harissa paste
2 tablespoons maple syrup
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Whipped Feta:

1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon olive oil (for whipped feta)
1 tablespoon water (as needed for consistency)

For Garnish:

Chopped fresh parsley or mint for garnish (optional)
Pomegranate seeds or chopped pistachios for topping (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare the Carrots: Toss the carrots with olive oil, harissa paste, maple syrup, salt, and pepper. Roast for 25–30 minutes until tender.
Make the Whipped Feta: Blend feta, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and olive oil until smooth. Add water if needed.
Assemble: Spread whipped feta on a platter, arrange roasted carrots on top, and garnish with herbs and seeds or nuts.
Serve: Serve warm or at room temperature.