Cranberry-Glazed Roasted Butternut Squash, Brussels Sprouts, and Sweet Potato Salad with Cranberries and Goat Cheese
This fall-inspired salad brings together roasted butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes, topped with tangy cranberry glaze, creamy goat cheese, and extra cranberries for a delicious balance of sweet and savory flavors!
Ingredients:
For the Roasted Vegetables:
1 small butternut squash, peeled and cubed
1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
3 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon dried thyme
For the Cranberry Glaze:
1/2 cup cranberry juice
1/4 cup dried cranberries
2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
For the Finishing Touch:
4 oz goat cheese, crumbled
1/2 cup dried cranberries (for garnish)
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, pepper, and thyme until well coated.
3. Spread the vegetables on a large baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until tender and caramelized.
5. While the vegetables are roasting, prepare the cranberry glaze.
6. In a small saucepan, combine the cranberry juice, dried cranberries, honey (or maple syrup), and balsamic vinegar.
7. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens into a glaze.
8. Once the vegetables are roasted, transfer them to a large serving bowl.
9. Drizzle the cranberry glaze over the roasted vegetables and gently toss to coat.
10. Sprinkle the crumbled goat cheese and extra dried cranberries on top.
11. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve warm.
Timings:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Nutrient-Rich Ingredients:
Butternut Squash: Packed with vitamins A and C, it supports immune health and eye function.
Brussels Sprouts: High in fiber, vitamin K, and antioxidants, aiding digestion and bone health.
Sweet Potatoes: A great source of complex carbohydrates, vitamin A, and potassium for sustained energy.
Cranberries: Rich in antioxidants and beneficial for urinary tract health.
Goat Cheese: Provides protein and calcium while being easier to digest than cow’s milk cheese.
Balanced Flavor Profile:
Combines sweet (sweet potato and cranberry glaze), savory (roasted vegetables and goat cheese), and tangy (cranberries and goat cheese) flavors for a satisfying dish.
Versatile and Adaptable:
Can be served as a main dish for vegetarians or as a side dish for festive meals like Thanksgiving or Christmas.
Easy to customize with added nuts (like pecans or walnuts) or grains (like quinoa or farro) for extra texture and nutrients.
Low-Calorie, High-Satiety:
High in fiber and healthy carbs, keeping you full without being calorie-dense.
Visually Appealing:
Bright colors of the squash, sprouts, and cranberries create a vibrant presentation that enhances meal appeal.
Tips for Preparation:
Roasting Vegetables:
Cut vegetables into uniform sizes for even roasting.
Toss with olive oil, salt, pepper, and a touch of cinnamon for added warmth and sweetness.
Roast at 400°F (200°C) until caramelized and tender (about 25–30 minutes).
Cranberry Glaze:
Use fresh or dried cranberries to make the glaze by simmering with orange juice, a touch of honey or maple syrup, and a pinch of cinnamon.
Serving:
Serve warm or at room temperature; the flavors meld beautifully either way.
Add goat cheese just before serving to maintain its creamy texture.
Optional Add-Ins:
Sprinkle toasted pecans or walnuts for crunch.
Add pomegranate seeds for an extra burst of flavor and color.
Incorporate a handful of arugula or spinach for freshness.
Make Ahead:
Roast the vegetables and prepare the glaze in advance. Assemble the salad and add goat cheese just before serving to save time.
This dish is as delicious as it is nutritious, making it a crowd-pleaser for gatherings or a healthy weekday treat!
Enjoy!