Pecans & Cranberry-Honey Glaze Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a dish that brings together the warm, cozy flavors of fall with a vibrant pop of sweetness and crunch, this recipe featuring Caramelized Butternut Squash, Carrots, Broccoli & Yukon Potatoes with Feta, Pecans & Cranberry-Honey Glaze is a total winner. The combination of tender roasted vegetables elevated by the crunchy pecans and the luscious, tangy-sweet Pecans & Cranberry-Honey Glaze will have your taste buds singing with joy and your guests asking for seconds before you even clear the table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the perfect balance of flavors is all about using simple, fresh ingredients that work in harmony. Every component brings something unique: the earthiness of roasted veggies, the creamy tang of feta, the satisfying crunch of pecans, and the irresistible burst of our signature Pecans & Cranberry-Honey Glaze.

• Butternut squash (2 cups, peeled and cubed): Offers sweetness and a smooth texture that caramelizes beautifully in the oven.
• Carrots (2 cups, peeled and sliced): Add natural sweetness and bright orange color to the mix.
• Yukon gold potatoes (2 cups, cubed): Bring creamy earthiness and help make this dish wonderfully hearty.
• Broccoli florets (2 cups): Introduce fresh, green notes and a tender crispness that balances the root veggies.
• Olive oil (3 tablespoons): Essential for roasting vegetables to golden perfection and enhancing all the flavors.
• Salt (1 teaspoon): Highlights the natural sweetness and ties every bite together.
• Black pepper (½ teaspoon): Adds a subtle kick that livens up the mellow vegetables.
• Smoked paprika (½ teaspoon): Gives a hint of smokiness to deepen the overall flavor profile.
• Honey (¼ cup): Sweetens the glaze with a smooth, floral note that complements the cranberries.
• Cranberry sauce or pureed cranberries (2 tablespoons): Bring tartness and color to the glaze for that signature Pecans & Cranberry-Honey Glaze flavor.
• Olive oil (1 tablespoon for glaze): Balances the glaze with richness and shine.
• Balsamic vinegar (1 teaspoon): Introduces a tangy depth to elevate the glaze’s complexity.
• Crumbled feta cheese (½ cup): Provides a salty, creamy finish that contrasts beautifully with the sweet glaze.
• Toasted pecans (¼ cup, roughly chopped): Add crunch and a nutty warmth that are key components in the Pecans & Cranberry-Honey Glaze experience.
• Fresh parsley or thyme (for garnish): Brightens and freshens every bite with herbal notes.

How to Make Pecans & Cranberry-Honey Glaze

Step 1: Roast the Vegetables

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cubed butternut squash, carrots, Yukon gold potatoes, and broccoli florets with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Spread the veggies evenly on a large baking sheet to ensure they roast evenly. Slide the pan into the oven and roast for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring halfway through—this ensures each piece gets that perfect caramelized edge and soft interior.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Pecans & Cranberry-Honey Glaze

While the vegetables roast, it’s time to prepare the showstopper: the Pecans & Cranberry-Honey Glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, cranberry sauce or pureed cranberries, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar. This luscious blend strikes the perfect balance between sweet, tangy, and rich, ready to coat those roasted veggies in a glossy, flavorful finish.

Step 3: Glaze and Finish Baking

Once the veggies are perfectly roasted, carefully remove the pan from the oven and drizzle your homemade Pecans & Cranberry-Honey Glaze over the top. Toss gently to ensure every piece is kissed by the glaze. Then, sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese and toasted pecans—the crunchy jewels of the dish. Pop the pan back into the oven for an additional 5 minutes just to warm the toppings and let all those flavors meld together beautifully.

How to Serve Pecans & Cranberry-Honey Glaze

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme is the perfect finishing touch. These fresh herbs add vibrant color and a subtle herbal note that brightens the rich flavors of the roasted vegetables and the Pecans & Cranberry-Honey Glaze.

Side Dishes

This dish shines as a hearty side alongside roasted chicken, turkey, or salmon, adding a festive and flavorful complement. You can also enjoy it as a satisfying vegetarian main course when paired with fluffy quinoa or couscous, making it incredibly versatile for any meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve this colorful assortment of roasted vegetables and Pecans & Cranberry-Honey Glaze on a large wooden platter, letting guests help themselves for a cozy, communal feel. Alternatively, spoon the mixture over creamy polenta or an herbed grain bowl for a layered experience that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen as they sit, making it a fantastic option for next-day meals or quick lunches.

Freezing

You can freeze the roasted vegetable mix without the feta and pecans for up to 2 months. Freeze in a sealed container or freezer bag, then thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating and adding fresh toppings and Pecans & Cranberry-Honey Glaze.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet or oven at 350°F until warmed through, then add fresh crumbled feta and toasted pecans along with an extra drizzle of the Pecans & Cranberry-Honey Glaze to revive all the wonderful layers of flavor.

FAQs

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of cranberry sauce in the glaze?

Absolutely! If using fresh cranberries, simmer them with a bit of water and sugar until softened, then mash or blend them to create a smooth puree. This homemade cranberry base will taste just as vibrant in your Pecans & Cranberry-Honey Glaze.

Are there any nut substitutes for those with allergies?

If pecans are not an option, try toasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds—they provide a nice crunch and a subtly nutty flavor that complements the glaze beautifully.

Can this dish be made vegan?

Yes! Swap out the honey for maple syrup and replace feta with a vegan cheese alternative or skip it altogether for a delicious plant-based version of the dish.

What other vegetables can I add or substitute?

Feel free to experiment with sweet potatoes, parsnips, or Brussels sprouts. These veggies roast wonderfully and will blend perfectly with the Pecans & Cranberry-Honey Glaze.

How important is the smoked paprika in this recipe?

Smoked paprika adds a subtle smoky depth that enhances the roasted vegetables without overpowering the dish. Although optional, it’s highly recommended for that extra dimension of flavor.

Final Thoughts

This recipe for Caramelized Butternut Squash, Carrots, Broccoli & Yukon Potatoes with Feta, Pecans & Cranberry-Honey Glaze truly stands out as a delicious celebration of seasonal flavors and textures. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner but special enough for holiday feasts. I can’t wait for you to try it, and trust me, the Pecans & Cranberry-Honey Glaze alone will have you coming back for more every time.