Maple Cranberry Roasted Vegetables with Pecans (Mediterranean Style)
🍁 Description
This colorful Mediterranean-inspired dish combines caramelized roasted vegetables, tart cranberries, crunchy pecans, and a light maple glaze balanced with olive oil and herbs. It’s naturally sweet, savory, and slightly tangy — perfect as a healthy side dish for family dinners or festive gatherings. Packed with fiber, antioxidants, and heart-healthy fats, it fits beautifully into a Mediterranean lifestyle.
🛒 Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
Vegetables:
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2 cups butternut squash, cubed
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2 carrots, sliced
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1 red onion, cut into wedges
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1 cup Brussels sprouts, halved
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1 red bell pepper, chopped
Add-ins:
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½ cup fresh or dried cranberries
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½ cup pecans, roughly chopped
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2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
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1½ tbsp pure maple syrup
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1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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½ tsp dried thyme
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½ tsp dried rosemary
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Salt & black pepper to taste
Optional Garnish:
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Fresh parsley, chopped
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Crumbled feta cheese
👩🍳 Instructions
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Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
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Prepare vegetables: Place squash, carrots, onion, Brussels sprouts, and bell pepper in a large bowl.
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Make glaze: In a small bowl, whisk olive oil, maple syrup, balsamic vinegar, garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
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Toss: Pour glaze over vegetables and toss until evenly coated.
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Roast: Spread vegetables in a single layer. Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until tender and caramelized.
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Add cranberries & pecans: During the last 8–10 minutes, sprinkle cranberries and pecans over the tray and return to oven.
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Finish: Remove from oven, garnish with parsley and optional feta. Serve warm.
🌿 Mediterranean Tips
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Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for authentic flavor.
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Add a squeeze of fresh orange juice for extra brightness.
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Swap pecans with walnuts or almonds if preferred.
🥗 Serving Ideas
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Serve alongside grilled chicken or baked salmon.
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Add to quinoa or couscous bowls.
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Enjoy as a holiday side dish.
❓ Q & A
Q1: Can I make this vegan?
Yes! Just skip the feta cheese topping.
Q2: Can I prepare it ahead of time?
You can chop vegetables and prepare the glaze a day in advance. Roast just before serving for best texture.
Q3: Can I use frozen vegetables?
Fresh is best for caramelization, but frozen can work — just pat dry before roasting.
Q4: How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Q5: Is this dish healthy?
Absolutely! It’s rich in fiber, antioxidants, and heart-healthy fats, making it ideal for a Mediterranean-style diet.

