Are you tired of boring vegetable sides that put everyone to sleep? Prepare to revolutionize your dinner table with the most mouthwatering, caramelized winter vegetable recipe that will have your guests begging for seconds! This Roasted Balsamic Winter Vegetables dish transforms humble Brussels sprouts, butternut squash, and red onions into a culinary masterpiece that's not just a side dish, but a star attraction that steals the show.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups Brussels sprouts, halved
- 2 cups butternut squash, cubed
- 1 red onion, sliced
- 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Wash and prepare the vegetables: Trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts and cut them in half lengthwise. Peel the butternut squash and cut into uniform 1-inch cubes. Slice the red onion into thin, even wedges.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the prepared Brussels sprouts, butternut squash, and red onion slices.
- Drizzle olive oil over the vegetables, then add balsamic vinegar. Sprinkle salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Toss the vegetables thoroughly to ensure even coating.
- Spread the vegetables in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not overcrowded. This allows for proper roasting and caramelization.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 35-40 minutes, stirring once halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.
- The vegetables are done when they are tender and have golden-brown caramelized edges. Brussels sprouts should be crisp on the outside and tender inside, and squash should be soft and slightly caramelized.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 2-3 minutes. Transfer to a serving dish and optionally garnish with fresh herbs like thyme or parsley.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Always preheat your oven to ensure high, consistent heat for perfect caramelization.
- Don't Overcrowd: Spread vegetables in a single layer to allow proper roasting and prevent steaming.
- Uniform Cutting: Cut vegetables into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Oil and Vinegar Ratio: The combination of olive oil and balsamic vinegar creates a perfect balance of richness and tanginess.
- Halfway Stir: Rotate your baking sheet and toss vegetables midway to promote even browning.
- Watch Carefully: The line between perfectly caramelized and burnt is thin, so keep an eye on your vegetables in the last 10 minutes of roasting.
- Rest Time Matters: Allow vegetables to rest for a few minutes after roasting to let flavors settle and edges crisp up.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 110kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
