Unleash the flavors of autumn with this hearty, seasonal recipe. It combines the earthy taste of roasted vegetables with the sweet tang of apples, all perfectly balanced with the crunch of pecans. Whether you're looking to impress at a dinner party or simply want a cozy comfort dish for a chilly evening, this recipe is a winner.
Most of the ingredients in this recipe like brussels sprouts, red onions, butternut squash, and apples can be easily found in your local supermarket. Pecans and dried cranberries might be located in the baking or dried fruit aisle. The spices used, such as ground cinnamon and nutmeg, are common in most pantries but if not, they are readily available in the spice section.
Ingredients for Roasted Vegetables with Apples and Pecans
brussels sprouts: These small, leafy green vegetables are not only delicious when roasted, but pack a nutritional punch, being high in fiber and vitamins C and K.
red onion: Adds a sweet, slightly bitter flavor when roasted, complementing the other ingredients.
butter: Adds richness and helps the vegetables get a nice, caramelized exterior.
lemon juice: Brings a touch of acidity to balance out the sweetness of the dish.
butternut squash: This sweet, nutty squash roasts beautifully and pairs well with the flavors in this dish.
apples: Give a unique, sweet-tart flavor that complements the savory elements.
brown sugar: Enhances the natural sweetness of the apples and squash.
cinnamon and nutmeg: Warm, fragrant spices that are the perfect match for this autumnal dish.
pecans: Add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
dried cranberries: Introduce a chewy texture and a pop of tartness.
One reader, Giselbert Lacroix says:
The roasted vegetables with apples and pecans recipe was a delightful surprise! The combination of flavors was amazing, and the pecans added a nice crunch. The dish was a hit at my dinner party, and I received many compliments. I'll definitely be making this recipe again!
Mastering the Art of Roasting Vegetables
How to roast vegetables with apples and pecans: A step-by-step guide on roasting the vegetables, apples, and pecans to perfection, ensuring they are cooked evenly and have a delicious flavor.
How to toss the vegetables and apples: Instructions on how to properly mix the vegetables and apples with the butter, lemon juice, and seasonings to ensure even coating and flavor distribution.
How to add pecans and cranberries: A guide on when and how to add the pecans and cranberries to the roasted vegetables to prevent burning and ensure they are perfectly toasted and flavorful.
How To Make Roasted Vegetables with Apples and Pecans
Made with spiced and oven-roasted squash and Brussels sprouts, this roasted vegetables recipe is an appetizing side with the colors and flavors of fall.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 16ozBrussels sprouts,bottoms trimmed, halved, discard loose leaves
- ½medium red onion,diced into small chunks
- 4tbspsalted butter,melted, divided
- 1tbspfresh lemon juice
- salt
- 3cupsbutternut squash,cubed, diced into ¾-inch pieces
- 2medium crisp baking apples
- 2tbsppacked light brown sugar
- ¼tspground cinnamon
- ¼tspground nutmeg
- ⅔cuppecans,whole or roughly chopped
- ⅓cupdried cranberries
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Spray a rimmed 18×13-inch baking sheet with non-stick cooking spray.
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Add Brussels sprouts and red onions to a large mixing bowl. Pour 2 tablespoons butter over the top as well as the lemon juice, toss while seasoning with salt to taste (about ¼ tsp).
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Transfer to the baking sheet and spread out across the pan. Add squash and apples to the same mixing bowl.
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Pour the remaining 2 tablespoons butter over top and toss, then sprinkle brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt (about¼ tsp) over top and toss to evenly coat.
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Transfer to the baking sheet and spread into an even layer around Brussels sprouts and onions.
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Roast for about 40 minutes total in the preheated oven, tossing once halfway through baking until Brussels sprouts have browned slightly and squash is soft.
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Sprinkle pecans and cranberries over top during the last 3 minutes of baking. Serve warm.
Nutrition
- Calories: 339.09kcal
- Fat: 19.36g
- Saturated Fat: 6.79g
- Trans Fat: 0.37g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 7.83g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.47g
- Carbohydrates: 43.28g
- Fiber: 8.89g
- Sugar: 23.08g
- Protein: 5.56g
- Cholesterol: 24.42mg
- Sodium: 697.53mg
- Calcium: 104.72mg
- Potassium: 814.13mg
- Iron: 2.41mg
- Vitamin A: 561.66µg
- Vitamin C: 100.26mg
Pro Tips for Perfectly Roasted Vegetables
When roasting vegetables, it's important to cut them into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking. For this roasted vegetables with apples and pecans recipe, make sure your brussels sprouts and butternut squash are roughly the same size. Also, adding the pecans towards the end of the baking time prevents them from burning, as nuts can easily overcook due to their high oil content.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Recipe
Prepare the ingredients: Gather and prepare all the ingredients and equipment needed before starting the recipe to streamline the cooking process.
Use pre-cut vegetables: Save time by using pre-cut vegetables, such as pre-packaged butternut squash or pre-trimmed brussels sprouts, to minimize prep work.
Substitute Ingredients For Roasted Vegetables with Apples and Pecans Recipe
brussels sprouts - Substitute with cauliflower: Cauliflower can be roasted to a similar texture and flavor as brussels sprouts, providing a delicious alternative for this recipe.
red onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a milder flavor and can caramelize beautifully when roasted, adding a sweet and aromatic element to the dish.
salted butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can be used as a healthier alternative to butter for roasting the vegetables and apples, adding a rich flavor and helping to achieve a crispy texture.
butternut squash - Substitute with sweet potatoes: Sweet potatoes can provide a similar sweet and creamy texture when roasted, complementing the apples and pecans in this dish.
crisp baking apples - Substitute with pear: Pears can offer a similar sweet and juicy flavor as apples when roasted, adding a delightful contrast to the savory vegetables and nuts.
light brown sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can provide a natural sweetness and caramelization when roasted, enhancing the flavors of the vegetables and fruits in this dish.
pecans - Substitute with walnuts: Walnuts can offer a similar nutty flavor and crunchy texture when roasted, providing a delicious alternative to pecans in this recipe.
dried cranberries - Substitute with golden raisins: Golden raisins can provide a sweet and chewy element, adding a burst of flavor and texture to the roasted vegetables and fruits.
Elevate Your Dinner Presentation With This Dish
Elevate the plating: Arrange the roasted vegetables and apples in a visually appealing manner on the plate, ensuring a balance of colors and textures.
Garnish with pecans and cranberries: Sprinkle the dish with a generous amount of pecans and cranberries to add a pop of color and a delightful crunch.
Incorporate artistic drizzles: Create elegant drizzles of balsamic reduction or honey around the plate to add a touch of sophistication and flavor contrast.
Utilize edible flowers: Place a few edible flowers strategically on the plate to introduce a delicate and beautiful element to the presentation.
Consider plate shape and size: Choose a plate that complements the dish, allowing the vibrant colors of the roasted vegetables and apples to stand out.
Add microgreens for freshness: Sprinkle a few microgreens over the dish to introduce a fresh, vibrant element and enhance the overall visual appeal.
Use contrasting textures: Incorporate a crispy element, such as a delicate tuile or a shard of caramelized sugar, to contrast with the softness of the roasted vegetables and apples.
Create height and dimension: Build the dish with varying heights to add visual interest and create an impressive presentation on the plate.
Consider the negative space: Embrace the beauty of negative space on the plate to allow the dish to shine and create a visually striking presentation.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Roasting Vegetables
- rimmed baking sheet: A baking sheet with raised edges to prevent spills and drips.
- mixing bowl: A bowl used for combining ingredients.
- non-stick cooking spray: A spray used to prevent food from sticking to cooking surfaces.
- food processor: A kitchen appliance used for chopping, slicing, and pureeing ingredients.
Storing and Freezing Roasted Vegetables
- Let the roasted vegetables cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. They will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- If you want to freeze the leftovers, place the cooled roasted vegetables in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Remove as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
- When ready to eat, thaw the frozen roasted vegetables in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them in the microwave, but they may lose some of their crispiness.
- If you plan on freezing the roasted vegetables, it's best to undercook them slightly so they don't become mushy when reheated. Roast them for about 5-10 minutes less than the recipe suggests.
- To maintain the best texture and flavor, consume the frozen roasted vegetables within 2-3 months. Label the container with the date so you can keep track of how long they've been stored.
- If you have any leftover pecans or dried cranberries, store them separately in airtight containers at room temperature. They will stay fresh for several weeks.
How To Reheat Leftover Roasted Vegetables
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the leftover roasted vegetables with apples and pecans in a single layer on a baking sheet. Cover the sheet with aluminum foil to prevent the vegetables from drying out. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
For a quicker option, reheat the roasted vegetables in the microwave. Place them in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until heated to your desired temperature. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the apples and pecans to become soggy.
If you have a bit more time, consider reheating the roasted vegetables in a skillet on the stovetop. Add a tablespoon of butter or olive oil to the pan and heat over medium heat. Add the vegetables and stir occasionally until they are warmed through and slightly crispy on the edges. This method will help restore some of the original texture of the dish.
For a unique twist, try incorporating your leftover roasted vegetables into a new dish. Chop them up and add them to a frittata, quiche, or omelet for a delicious and healthy breakfast. You can also toss them with some cooked quinoa or pasta for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner.
If you find that your reheated roasted vegetables are a bit dry, try drizzling them with a little extra lemon juice or balsamic vinegar to brighten up the flavors. A sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme, can also help to revive the dish.
Surprising Facts About Roasted Vegetables
The recipe is a delicious combination of savory and sweet flavors, creating a perfect balance of taste and texture. It's a great way to incorporate seasonal produce and nuts into a hearty and satisfying dish.
Budget-Friendly Roasted Vegetable Recipes
This roasted vegetables with apples and pecans recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as brussels sprouts, butternut squash, and apples, are generally affordable and widely available. The addition of pecans and dried cranberries may slightly increase the cost, but they contribute to the overall flavor and appeal of the dish. Considering the nutritional value and the serving size for a family of four, the approximate cost would be around $15. The overall verdict for this recipe would be 9 out of 10 for its balance of cost, flavor, and nutrition.
Is This Roasted Vegetable Recipe Healthy?
The roasted vegetables with apples and pecans recipe is a nutritious and flavorful dish that offers a good balance of healthy ingredients. The recipe includes:
- Brussels sprouts and butternut squash, which are rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber
- Apples, providing natural sweetness and additional fiber
- Pecans, offering healthy fats and protein
- Onions, contributing to the overall flavor and nutritional value
However, there are a few aspects of the recipe that could be improved to make it even healthier:
- The recipe calls for a significant amount of butter, which is high in saturated fat. Reducing the amount of butter or replacing it with a healthier alternative, such as olive oil, could lower the saturated fat content.
- Brown sugar is used to add sweetness, but it is still a form of added sugar. The natural sweetness from the apples and cranberries may be sufficient, allowing for a reduction or elimination of the brown sugar.
To further enhance the nutritional value of this recipe, consider the following suggestions:
- Increase the variety of vegetables by adding other nutrient-dense options like carrots, parsnips, or beets
- Incorporate a lean protein source, such as diced chicken breast or tofu, to make it a complete meal
- Experiment with different herbs and spices, like rosemary, thyme, or garlic, to add more flavor without relying on added sugars or fats
- Serve the roasted vegetables over a bed of quinoa or brown rice for added fiber and complex carbohydrates
Why Our Editor Loves This Roasted Vegetable Dish
This roasted vegetables with apples and pecans recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The blend of brussels sprouts, butternut squash, apples, and pecans creates a harmonious balance of sweet and savory. The addition of cranberries adds a pop of tartness, while the warm spices elevate the dish. The recipe's simplicity makes it accessible for home cooks, and the final touch of lemon juice adds a refreshing zing. Overall, this dish is a perfect addition to any fall or winter meal, and it's sure to impress with its vibrant colors and delicious taste.
Enhance Your Roasted Vegetables with Apples and Pecans Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Delicious Variations on Roasted Vegetable Recipes
Appetizer and Dessert Ideas for Your Roasted Vegetable Meal
Why trust this Roasted Vegetables with Apples and Pecans Recipe:
This recipe offers a delightful combination of roasted vegetables with the sweet and tart flavors of apples and dried cranberries. The addition of pecans provides a satisfying crunch, while the warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg add depth to the dish. The use of butter and brown sugar enhances the natural sweetness of the butternut squash and apples. With a balance of savory and sweet elements, this recipe promises a harmonious blend of flavors and textures, making it a delightful and trustworthy choice for a delicious and wholesome meal.
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