and Cranberry-Honey Glaze Recipe

Get ready to fall in love with a vibrant medley of caramelized Brussels sprouts, sweet potato, butternut squash, carrot, and beet brought to life with a luscious and Cranberry-Honey Glaze. This dish balances earthiness, sweetness, and tang, while the rich texture of toasted walnuts and creamy feta cheese adds the perfect finishing touch. It’s a celebration of seasonal veggies that’s as delightful to the eyes as it is to your palate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for a handful of wholesome, colorful ingredients that come together beautifully with minimal effort. Each one plays a crucial role in delivering a balance of flavors and textures that will keep you coming back for more.

• Brussels sprouts, halved: These little green gems add a slightly bitter crunch that caramelizes to perfection.
• Sweet potato, peeled and diced: Their natural sweetness complements the earthier flavors beautifully.
• Butternut squash, peeled and diced: Adds mellow, buttery notes and bright orange color.
• Carrots, peeled and sliced: Bring a subtle sweetness and tender bite.
• Beet, peeled and diced: Offers earthy depth and a stunning red hue that turns the dish into a feast for the eyes.
• Olive oil: Vital for roasting, it helps veggies brown and develop flavor.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Enhances all the natural flavors without overpowering them.
• Crumbled feta cheese: Adds a tangy creaminess that contrasts wonderfully with the sweet vegetables.
• Walnuts, chopped and toasted: Bring crunch and a toasty nuttiness.
• Dried cranberries: The backbone of our cranberry-honey glaze, lending a fruity tartness.
• Honey: Provides natural sweetness that balances the acidity.
• Apple cider vinegar: Gives a slight tang that rounds out the glaze perfectly.

How to Make and Cranberry-Honey Glaze

Step 1: Prepare and Roast the Vegetables

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss the halved Brussels sprouts, diced sweet potato, butternut squash, carrots, and beet with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Make sure each piece is coated; this will help them caramelize beautifully in the hot oven. Spread everything evenly on a baking sheet in a single layer so each vegetable has room to roast and crisp up. Pop them in the oven and roast for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through to make sure those gorgeous caramelized edges develop on every bite.

Step 2: Make the Cranberry-Honey Glaze

As the vegetables roast, move on to the star of the show: the and Cranberry-Honey Glaze. In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the dried cranberries, honey, and apple cider vinegar. Stir gently and let the cranberries soften while the mixture thickens slightly – it usually takes about 3-4 minutes. This glaze will be the perfect sweet and tangy drizzle that brings all of the roasted vegetables together. Be sure to keep an eye on it so it doesn’t cook too long; you want a smooth, slightly sticky consistency.

Step 3: Assemble and Serve

Once your vegetables are tender, golden, and bursting with flavor, transfer them to a serving platter. Drizzle the freshly made and Cranberry-Honey Glaze generously over the top, letting it coat every vibrant morsel. Finish the dish by sprinkling crumbled feta cheese and toasted walnuts over everything. The contrast between the glaze, nuts, and cheese is absolutely irresistible – each forkful offers a perfect medley of textures and flavors.

How to Serve and Cranberry-Honey Glaze

Garnishes

To make the dish even more inviting, add a few fresh herb sprigs like thyme or parsley. They brighten the presentation and add a subtle herbaceous note that complements the glaze beautifully. A light sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper just before serving can also wake up the flavors.

Side Dishes

This roasted vegetable medley with its sweet and tangy glaze pairs wonderfully with simple grilled chicken or a hearty grain like quinoa or farro. It also makes a fantastic vegetarian main when served alongside warm crusty bread or a creamy risotto.

Creative Ways to Present

For an eye-catching centerpiece, serve this medley in a rustic wooden bowl or a colorful ceramic dish to showcase the vibrant colors. You can also layer it over mixed greens to create a seasonal salad experience with a delightful crunch and depth of flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The medley keeps nicely for up to 3 days, and the flavors actually deepen as they sit, making it a great option for quick lunches or reheated dinners.

Freezing

Freezing is possible but not ideal because the vegetables might lose some texture once thawed. If you choose to freeze, spread the roasted vegetables flat on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a sealed bag. Use within 1 month for best results.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at a low temperature to retain as much of the crisp edges and fresh flavors as possible. Avoid microwaving for too long, which can make the vegetables soggy.

FAQs

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried for the glaze?

Yes, fresh cranberries can be used but they are more tart and contain more moisture, so you might want to adjust the honey amount to balance the sweetness and cook a bit longer to thicken the glaze.

Is there a substitute for feta cheese if I want a dairy-free version?

Absolutely! Crumbled vegan cheese or roasted pumpkin seeds can provide a similar texture and a bit of salty contrast without the dairy.

Can I prepare the vegetables ahead of time before roasting?

You can chop and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours before roasting, which can save time on the day you want to serve this dish.

What nuts could I use besides walnuts?

Pecans or almonds both make excellent alternatives, adding their unique flavor and crunch that pairs well with the glaze and vegetables.

How spicy is this dish?

This is a mild dish with natural sweetness and tang from the glaze. If you like some heat, try adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes when roasting the vegetables or into the glaze for a subtle kick.

Final Thoughts

This medley with and Cranberry-Honey Glaze is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate — comforting, vibrant, and uniquely flavorful. It’s a perfect way to enjoy seasonal vegetables in a way that’s anything but ordinary. I can’t recommend enough trying this recipe for your next family meal or gathering; it’s sure to become a beloved classic in your home too!