Roasted Brussels Sprouts & Butternut Squash with Cranberries & Pecans is a delightful and flavorful dish that combines the earthy taste of Brussels sprouts and the sweet, nutty flavor of butternut squash, complemented by the tartness of cranberries and the crunchiness of pecans. This dish is a popular choice for fall and holiday gatherings due to its vibrant colors and rich flavors.
History:
The exact origin of this dish is not well-documented, but it likely emerged as a result of creative cooking and seasonal ingredients. Brussels sprouts and butternut squash are both autumn vegetables, and combining them with cranberries and pecans adds a festive touch to the dish, making it a favorite during Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Components:
- Brussels Sprouts: Fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved.
- Butternut Squash: Peeled, seeded, and diced butternut squash.
- Cranberries: Fresh or dried cranberries for a burst of tartness and color.
- Pecans: Chopped pecans for a nutty crunch.
- Olive Oil: Used for roasting and flavor.
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and optional spices like garlic powder or thyme can be added for extra flavor.
Steps to Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the Brussels sprouts and diced butternut squash.
- Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Toss to coat the vegetables evenly.
- Spread the vegetables out on a baking sheet in a single layer. Make sure there’s enough space for even roasting.
- Roast in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized. You can toss them halfway through for even cooking.
- While the vegetables are roasting, toast the pecans in a dry pan over medium heat until they become fragrant. Be careful not to burn them.
- Once the Brussels sprouts and butternut squash are done roasting, transfer them to a serving dish.
- Add the dried cranberries and toasted pecans to the roasted vegetables.
- Toss everything together gently to combine.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
- Serve your Roasted Brussels Sprouts & Butternut Squash with Cranberries & Pecans as a delicious side dish or a festive addition to your holiday table.
Preparation Time:
The preparation time for this dish can vary slightly depending on your cooking skills and the quantity you’re making. On average, it takes approximately 45-50 minutes from start to finish, including preparation and roasting time. However, it’s a relatively simple recipe that can be customized to your preferences, and the result is a visually stunning and flavorful side dish that’s perfect for any special occasion or as a comforting fall meal.
Certainly, here are the nutrition facts and health information for Roasted Brussels Sprouts & Butternut Squash with Cranberries & Pecans:
Nutrition Facts (per serving, assuming 4 servings):
- Calories: Approximately 220-250 calories per serving.
- Total Fat: 12-14 grams
- Saturated Fat: 1-2 grams
- Unsaturated Fat: 9-11 grams
- Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
- Sodium: 200-250 milligrams
- Total Carbohydrates: 27-30 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 6-7 grams
- Sugars: 7-9 grams
- Protein: 4-5 grams
- Vitamin A: 150-200% of the Daily Value (DV)
- Vitamin C: 90-100% DV
- Vitamin K: 300-400% DV
- Folate: 20-25% DV
- Potassium: 15-20% DV
Health Information:
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Low in Calories: This dish is relatively low in calories, making it a healthy choice for those watching their calorie intake.
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Rich in Vitamins: It is a great source of vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin K due to the presence of butternut squash and Brussels sprouts. These vitamins play crucial roles in immune function, vision, and blood clotting.
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Fiber-Rich: The high fiber content comes from the Brussels sprouts and butternut squash. Fiber promotes digestive health, helps control blood sugar levels, and aids in weight management.
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Antioxidant-Rich: Cranberries are rich in antioxidants, particularly vitamin C, which can help protect cells from damage by free radicals and boost overall health.
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Heart-Healthy: The unsaturated fats from olive oil and the absence of cholesterol make this dish heart-healthy. The potassium content also supports heart health by helping regulate blood pressure.
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Nutrient Density: This recipe is nutrient-dense, providing essential vitamins and minerals while being relatively low in calories. It’s a nutritious addition to your diet.
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Versatile: You can further enhance the health benefits by customizing the recipe. For example, you can reduce the amount of oil used for roasting or adjust the seasonings to suit your dietary preferences.
Keep in mind that the actual nutritional content may vary depending on factors like portion size and specific ingredients used. However, this dish is generally a wholesome and nutritious choice, especially when prepared with a focus on healthy cooking methods.