🍁 Maple Cranberry Roasted Vegetables with Pecans (Mediterranean Style)
📝 Description
This Maple Cranberry Roasted Vegetables with Pecans dish brings together caramelized seasonal vegetables, naturally sweet maple syrup, tangy dried cranberries, and crunchy pecans—all roasted in heart-healthy olive oil. While lightly sweet, it stays true to Mediterranean principles by focusing on whole vegetables, nuts, and balanced flavors. Perfect as a holiday side or a cozy everyday vegetable dish.
🥕 Ingredients
Vegetables
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2 cups carrots, sliced
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2 cups Brussels sprouts, halved
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1 cup sweet potato, cubed
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1 small red onion, cut into wedges
Maple Glaze
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3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
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2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
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1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
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1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
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½ teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary
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Salt and black pepper to taste
Finish
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⅓ cup dried cranberries
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½ cup pecans, roughly chopped
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Optional: fresh parsley or rosemary for garnish
👩🍳 Instructions
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Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
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Prepare vegetables: Place carrots, Brussels sprouts, sweet potato, and red onion on the baking sheet.
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Make glaze: Whisk olive oil, maple syrup, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, thyme, salt, and pepper.
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Toss & roast: Pour glaze over vegetables and toss well. Spread in a single layer.
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Bake for 25 minutes, stirring once halfway.
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Add toppings: Sprinkle cranberries and pecans over the vegetables and return to the oven for 8–10 minutes, until vegetables are tender and pecans are toasted.
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Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
🍽 Serving Ideas
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Serve alongside roasted chicken, turkey, or fish
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Add to a grain bowl with farro or quinoa
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Enjoy as a vegetarian main with yogurt or tahini drizzle
❓ Q & A
Q: Is this dish sweet or savory?
A: It’s perfectly balanced—lightly sweet from maple syrup and cranberries, savory from herbs and olive oil.
Q: Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
A: Yes! Fresh cranberries will be more tart. Add them during the last 10 minutes of roasting.
Q: Can I swap the vegetables?
A: Absolutely. Butternut squash, parsnips, or cauliflower work great.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Q: Is this Mediterranean-diet friendly?
A: Yes—olive oil, vegetables, nuts, and natural sweeteners fit beautifully within Mediterranean guidelines when enjoyed in moderation.
