Mediterranean Caramelized Winter Vegetable Tray with Golden Goat Cheese & Maple Cranberry Finish
Mediterranean Caramelized Winter Vegetable Tray with Golden Goat Cheese & Maple Cranberry Finish is a show-stopping oven dish that turns humble winter vegetables into something deeply comforting and elegant. High-heat roasting draws out natural sugars, creating crisp edges and tender centers, while olive oil and fresh thyme keep the flavors clean and balanced. The final touch is a glossy maple cranberry glaze that adds sweet-tart brightness, finished with warm, lightly melted goat cheese for creaminess. This tray works beautifully as a vegetarian main or a generous side for festive meals, yet it is simple enough for relaxed family dinners.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 50–55 minutes
Total Time: About 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 4–6
Ingredients
For the Roasted Vegetables
Butternut squash: 600 g, peeled and cubed
Sweet potatoes: 500 g, diced
Brussels sprouts: 400 g, halved
Carrots: 3 medium, sliced thick
Red onions or beets: 1 large, cut into wedges
Olive oil: 5 tablespoons
Salt: 1¼ teaspoons
Black pepper: ¾ teaspoon
Fresh thyme: 2 teaspoons, leaves only
For the Maple Cranberry Finish
Cranberry sauce or unsweetened cranberry juice: ½ cup
Maple syrup or honey: 3 tablespoons
Balsamic vinegar or apple cider vinegar: 1½ tablespoons
Toppings
Goat cheese: 200 g, crumbled or in small rounds
Fresh or dried cranberries: ⅓ cup
Chopped toasted nuts (walnuts or pecans, optional): ½ cup
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 220°C (425°F). Line a large roasting tray with parchment paper.
Add butternut squash and sweet potatoes to the tray. Drizzle with 3 tablespoons olive oil, half the salt, and half the pepper. Toss well.
Roast for 20 minutes, turning once to start caramelization.
Remove the tray and add Brussels sprouts, carrots, and red onions or beets.
Drizzle with remaining olive oil and sprinkle with remaining salt, pepper, and fresh thyme.
Toss gently and spread vegetables in a single, even layer.
Return to the oven and roast for another 25–30 minutes until deeply golden and tender.
While vegetables roast, combine cranberry sauce, maple syrup, and vinegar in a small saucepan. Simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
Remove the tray from the oven, drizzle the warm maple cranberry glaze over the vegetables, and gently toss.
Add goat cheese on top and return to the oven for 5 minutes until lightly golden. Finish with cranberries and nuts before serving.
Tips for Best Results
Cut vegetables evenly to ensure consistent roasting.
Use high heat to achieve deep caramelization.
Avoid overcrowding the tray or vegetables will steam.
Roast denser vegetables first, adding softer ones later.
Turn vegetables gently to keep edges intact.
Use fresh thyme for brighter flavor.
Simmer the glaze gently to avoid bitterness.
Add goat cheese at the end to prevent overbrowning.
Let the tray rest a few minutes before serving.
Taste and adjust glaze sweetness if needed.
Variations
Swap maple syrup with honey for a floral sweetness.
Use feta instead of goat cheese for a saltier finish.
Add parsnips or turnips for deeper winter flavor.
Sprinkle orange zest into the glaze for citrus notes.
Add rosemary instead of thyme for earthiness.
Use dried cherries instead of cranberries.
Add a pinch of chili flakes for gentle heat.
Finish with a drizzle of olive oil for shine.
Use pistachios instead of walnuts for crunch.
Make it vegan by skipping cheese or using plant-based alternatives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can this be made ahead of time?
Yes, roast vegetables ahead and add glaze and cheese just before serving.
How do I get deep caramelization?
High heat and enough space on the tray are essential.
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Fresh vegetables work best for texture and browning.
Is the glaze very sweet?
It is balanced with vinegar for gentle acidity.
Can I make it nut-free?
Yes, simply skip the nuts.
What protein pairs well with this dish?
Roasted chicken, lamb, or chickpeas.
How long do leftovers last?
Up to 3 days refrigerated.
Can I reheat it?
Reheat in the oven to restore texture.
Can I use goat cheese rounds?
Yes, they melt beautifully and look elegant.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, naturally gluten-free.
Nutrition
(Per Serving, Approximate)
Calories: 430
Carbohydrates: 48 g
Protein: 12 g
Fat: 22 g
Saturated Fat: 7 g
Fiber: 7 g
Sugar: 16 g
Sodium: 520 mg
Conclusion
Mediterranean Caramelized Winter Vegetable Tray with Golden Goat Cheese & Maple Cranberry Finish celebrates seasonal vegetables at their best. Deep roasting unlocks natural sweetness, the maple cranberry glaze adds brightness, and warm goat cheese brings creamy balance. Flexible, visually striking, and full of flavor, this dish fits beautifully into everyday meals and special occasions alike. Once served, it is sure to become a favorite centerpiece on your table.