Maple Cranberry Roasted Vegetables with Pecans

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:

  • 2 cups butternut squash, cubed

  • 2 carrots, sliced

  • 1 red onion, cut into wedges

  • 1 cup Brussels sprouts, halved

  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped

Add-ins:

  • ½ cup fresh or dried cranberries

  • ½ cup pecans, roughly chopped

  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

  • 1½ tbsp pure maple syrup

  • 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • ½ tsp dried thyme

  • ½ tsp dried rosemary

  • Salt & black pepper to taste

Optional Garnish:

  • Fresh parsley, chopped

  • Crumbled feta cheese


👩‍🍳 Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.

  2. Prepare vegetables: Place squash, carrots, onion, Brussels sprouts, and bell pepper in a large bowl.

  3. Make glaze: In a small bowl, whisk olive oil, maple syrup, balsamic vinegar, garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.

  4. Toss: Pour glaze over vegetables and toss until evenly coated.

  5. Roast: Spread vegetables in a single layer. Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until tender and caramelized.

  6. Add cranberries & pecans: During the last 8–10 minutes, sprinkle cranberries and pecans over the tray and return to oven.

  7. Finish: Remove from oven, garnish with parsley and optional feta. Serve warm.


🌿 Mediterranean Tips

  • Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for authentic flavor.

  • Add a squeeze of fresh orange juice for extra brightness.

  • Swap pecans with walnuts or almonds if preferred.


🥗 Serving Ideas

  • Serve alongside grilled chicken or baked salmon.

  • Add to quinoa or couscous bowls.

  • 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.

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