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Roasted Root Vegetables

This vibrant roasted root vegetable dish is a celebration of earthy flavours and natural sweetness. By combining hearty sweet potato, beetroot, and parsnips with a delicate glaze of maple syrup and warm spices, the vegetables transform into a caramelised treat. The addition of fresh rosemary during the final stages of roasting provides a fragrant, savoury finish that perfectly balances the rich, spiced notes of the cinnamon and nutmeg.

As a versatile vegan side dish, these vegetables are an excellent accompaniment to a traditional Sunday roast or a simple midweek grain bowl. This recipe is highly adaptable; you might consider adding Brussels sprouts or red onion for extra colour, or stirring through some shredded kale ten minutes before the end of cooking for a hit of winter greens. It is a nutritious, high-fibre addition to any seasonal menu.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Roasted Root Vegetables

  • 1 large sweet potato, peeled, cut in half lengthwise, and sliced

  • 2 medium beets (red or golden), peeled and cut into bite-size chunks 3 to 4 medium carrots, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch-thick slices, or about 130g baby carrots

  • 2 to 3 medium parsnips, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch-thick slices

  • 1 large or 2 medium turnips, peeled and cut into large chunks

  • 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup, blackstrap molasses, or agave nectar

  • Pinch each of ground cinnamon and nutmeg

  • Fresh rosemary leaves to taste (optional)

  • Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

Preheat the oven to 218°C.

Combine all the vegetables in a large mixing bowl.

Drizzle in the oil and maple syrup, then sprinkle in the cinnamon and nutmeg. Stir together.

Transfer the mixture to a lightly oiled large roasting pan (lined with parchment if you like). Bake for 30 minutes, more or less, stirring every 10 minutes or so. The vegetables should be tender on the inside and touched with golden brown on the outside.

Toward the end of the cooking time, sprinkle on some fresh rosemary leaves, if desired. Season with salt and pepper; then transfer to a covered serving container. Serve immediately or keep warm until mealtime.

Though they break the root veggie theme, brussels sprouts and/or thinly sliced red onions are terrific additions, lending a nice contrasting flavour and colour.

Stir in ribbons of collards or lacinato kale about 10 minutes before the vegetables are done.

Experiment with other root veggies, including ordinary white or yellow potatoes, Jerusalem artichokes, Chioggia beets, rutabagas, and daiko.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 28 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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