Capture the essence of autumn with this savory roasted veggie dish, brought to life by a sweet maple glaze. It's a perfect blend of seasonal flavors that will warm your heart and delight your taste buds.
Butternut squash serves as the hearty base, bringing a nutty sweetness that gets enhanced by roasting. Brussels sprouts add a slightly bitter contrast, which caramelizes beautifully in the oven. Red onion offers a mild sweetness and a pop of color. Olive oil helps in roasting, giving the veggies a rich flavor and crispy edges. Pure maple syrup introduces a touch of sweetness that balances the savory elements. Sea salt and black pepper season the vegetables perfectly, while ground cinnamon and nutmeg infuse a warm, autumnal spice. Finally, pecans add a nutty crunch, and fresh thyme provides a fragrant finish.
This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken or a grilled steak. It also complements a grain-based salad, like quinoa, to make a hearty vegetarian meal. For a festive touch, serve alongside your Thanksgiving turkey or holiday roast.
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Grab a large bowl and toss in your peeled and cubed butternut squash, halved Brussels sprouts, and sliced red onion. Drizzle them with olive oil and maple syrup; this combination is what makes the veggies caramelize so beautifully. Sprinkle the mixture with sea salt, black pepper, cinnamon, and nutmeg, then give everything a good toss to ensure each piece is coated evenly.
Spread the seasoned veggies out on your prepared baking sheet. Make sure they’re in a single layer; overcrowding leads to steaming rather than roasting. Pop them into the oven for about 25-30 minutes. At the halfway point, take a moment to toss the veggies so they cook evenly. Five minutes before the end, scatter the chopped pecans over the top to toast them lightly. When everything looks golden and caramelized, take the tray out of the oven.
Transfer your roasted veggies to a serving dish, and don’t forget to garnish with some fresh thyme. The thyme adds an aromatic touch that's just right for serving.