Thanksgiving Butternut Squash and Brussels Sprouts with Pecans and Cranberries – Amazing Thanksgiving Butternut Squash and Brussels Sprouts Delight

Thanksgiving is a magical time of year when the air is filled with the aroma of roasted turkey, pumpkin pie, and—wait for it—Thanksgiving Butternut Squash and Brussels Sprouts with Pecans and Cranberries. Imagine this vibrant dish taking center stage on your holiday table, a colorful medley that not only looks gorgeous but also tantalizes your taste buds with each bite. pumpkin seed pesto sauce The sweet, nutty flavors of butternut squash paired with the crispy Brussels sprouts create a delightful symphony that makes you want to dance like nobody’s watching (and maybe even do a little jig while the turkey is in the oven).

Now, let me take you back to my first Thanksgiving dinner where I proudly volunteered to bring a vegetable dish. Picture me frantically Googling “easy Thanksgiving recipes” while trying to impress my family, all the while wondering if they’d prefer a side of kale chips instead. Spoiler alert: they didn’t. hearty vegetable soup But when I discovered this delightful Thanksgiving Butternut Squash and Brussels Sprouts with Pecans and Cranberries recipe, it was love at first sight! It’s perfect for those family gatherings where everyone secretly judges your culinary skills but won’t admit it when you serve them something delicious.

Ingredients for Thanksgiving Butternut Squash and Brussels Sprouts with Pecans and Cranberries

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Thanksgiving Butternut Squash and Brussels Sprouts with Pecans and Cranberries: For more inspiration, check out this Baked Cranberry Turkey Sliders recipe.

• Butternut Squash: Choose a firm squash with smooth skin; it’s the star of the show, bringing sweetness and creaminess.
• Brussels Sprouts: Look for bright green sprouts that feel firm; these little gems add crunch and earthiness to the dish.
• Pecans: Toasted pecans will bring out their rich flavor; they add a lovely crunch that complements the veggies beautifully.
• Dried Cranberries: These are sweet-tart bursts of flavor that elevate the dish; opt for unsweetened or lightly sweetened varieties.
• Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for roasting; it enhances flavor while keeping everything moist.
• Maple Syrup: A splash will balance the savory elements perfectly; it adds warmth and richness that’s just divine.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Thanksgiving Butternut Squash and Brussels Sprouts with Pecans and Cranberries

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Thanksgiving Butternut Squash and Brussels Sprouts with Pecans and Cranberries:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This hot environment ensures crispy edges on your veggies—trust me, no one wants soggy sprouts!

Step 2: Prep Your Veggies

Peel and cube about 4 cups of butternut squash into bite-sized pieces. Trim the ends off your Brussels sprouts, slice them in half, and give them a good rinse.

Step 3: Toss ’em Together

In a large bowl, combine butternut squash cubes, halved Brussels sprouts, olive oil (about 3 tablespoons), maple syrup (2 tablespoons), salt, pepper, pecans, and cranberries. Toss well until everything is evenly coated.

Step 4: Spread & Roast

Spread the mixture onto a large baking sheet in an even layer. Roast in your preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until tender and caramelized; flip halfway through to ensure even cooking.

Step 5: Final Touches

Once golden brown perfection has been achieved, remove from oven. Taste-test your masterpiece (a chef’s prerogative) before serving!

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy

Transfer to plates or a beautiful serving platter. Drizzle any remaining maple syrup over top for that extra touch of sweetness!

This Thanksgiving Butternut Squash and Brussels Sprouts with Pecans and Cranberries isn’t just food; it’s an experience waiting to happen around your dinner table! So gather your loved ones (and maybe some extra napkins), because this dish is sure to create lasting memories—and perhaps some very full bellies!

Perfecting Thanksgiving Butternut Squash and Brussels Sprouts with Pecans and Cranberries Cooking Process

Begin by roasting the butternut squash until tender, then add Brussels sprouts halfway through to ensure everything cooks evenly. Toss in pecans and cranberries during the last few minutes for that delightful crunch.

Add Your Touch to Thanksgiving Butternut Squash and Brussels Sprouts with Pecans and Cranberries

Feel free to substitute walnuts for pecans or add a sprinkle of feta cheese for creaminess. A drizzle of balsamic reduction can elevate the dish’s flavor profile even further.

Storing & Reheating Thanksgiving Butternut Squash and Brussels Sprouts with Pecans and Cranberries

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of olive oil to maintain moisture.

– Always cut the butternut squash into uniform pieces for even cooking; no one wants a mushy bite next to a crunchy one.

– Toast the pecans before adding them to enhance their flavor; trust me, it’s worth those extra five minutes.

– Don’t skip salting your veggies before roasting; it helps draw out moisture and intensifies flavors.

Nothing warms my heart quite like seeing my family devour this dish at Thanksgiving. Their smiles say it all—who knew veggies could steal the show?

FAQs About Thanksgiving Butternut Squash and Brussels Sprouts with Pecans and Cranberries

What is Thanksgiving Butternut Squash and Brussels Sprouts with Pecans and Cranberries?

Thanksgiving Butternut Squash and Brussels Sprouts with Pecans and Cranberries is a delightful side dish perfect for your holiday meals. This colorful recipe combines roasted butternut squash and Brussels sprouts, creating a medley of flavors that balance sweetness and savory notes. savory butternut squash fritters The addition of pecans adds a satisfying crunch, while dried cranberries contribute a burst of tartness. Together, these ingredients form a hearty dish that complements traditional Thanksgiving fare beautifully.

How can I prepare Thanksgiving Butternut Squash and Brussels Sprouts with Pecans and Cranberries?

To prepare this delicious dish, start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Chop the butternut squash and Brussels sprouts into even pieces, then toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast for about 25-30 minutes until tender. In the last few minutes of roasting, sprinkle pecans on top to toast them lightly. Finally, mix in dried cranberries before serving for added flavor.

Can I make Thanksgiving Butternut Squash and Brussels Sprouts with Pecans and Cranberries ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Thanksgiving Butternut Squash and Brussels Sprouts with Pecans and Cranberries ahead of time. Simply roast the vegetables earlier in the day or even the night before. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the dish in the oven for about 10-15 minutes at 350°F (175°C). Add fresh pecans and cranberries just before serving to maintain their texture.

What are some variations for Thanksgiving Butternut Squash and Brussels Sprouts with Pecans and Cranberries?

You can easily customize Thanksgiving Butternut Squash and Brussels Sprouts with Pecans and Cranberries to suit your taste. Consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth or incorporating other nuts such as walnuts or almonds for variety. sweet potato and black bean enchiladas You might also try drizzling balsamic glaze over the finished dish for added depth of flavor. Additionally, feel free to mix in other seasonal vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes.

Conclusion for Thanksgiving Butternut Squash and Brussels Sprouts with Pecans and Cranberries

In conclusion, Thanksgiving Butternut Squash and Brussels Sprouts with Pecans and Cranberries is a vibrant addition to any holiday table. This recipe highlights the natural sweetness of roasted vegetables while balancing it with crunchy nuts and tart cranberries. Preparing this dish ahead of time makes it convenient for busy holiday schedules. Ultimately, it’s a delicious way to celebrate the flavors of fall while delighting your guests this Thanksgiving season. For more inspiration, check out this Pecan Pie Bars recipe recipe.