Cranberry-Glazed Roasted Butternut Squash, Brussels Sprouts, and Sweet Potato Salad with Cranberries and Goat Cheese
Introduction
This colorful roasted vegetable salad brings together caramelized butternut squash, crispy Brussels sprouts, tender sweet potatoes, tangy cranberries, and creamy goat cheese. Topped with a sweet-tart cranberry glaze, it strikes the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and earthy flavors — a beautiful celebration of autumn’s harvest and nourishing seasonal ingredients.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Rooted in North American seasonal cuisine, this dish reflects flavors traditionally associated with fall and winter. Ingredients like squash, sweet potatoes, and cranberries have deep connections to Thanksgiving and holiday feasts in the United States and Canada. Brussels sprouts and goat cheese add European influence, blending rustic farm traditions with modern gourmet flair. Beyond its taste, this dish symbolizes comfort, nutrition, and gathering around the table with loved ones.
Ingredients & Quantity
- 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 2 cups sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 cups Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 2–3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder or minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary
- ¼ cup dried cranberries
- ½ cup goat cheese, crumbled or cubed
- 2 tablespoons sliced almonds or pecans (optional)
For the Cranberry Glaze (optional but recommended):
- ¼ cup cranberry juice or cranberry sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
- Pinch of cinnamon (optional)
Optional Additions
- Toasted pecans or walnuts
- Pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds
- Fresh herbs like parsley, sage, or mint
- A drizzle of balsamic reduction or pomegranate molasses
- Swap goat cheese with feta or blue cheese
- Add quinoa or farro for a hearty meal
Tips for Success
- Cut vegetables into similar sizes for even roasting.
- Roast at a high temperature (400°F / 200°C) for caramelization.
- Do not overcrowd the baking sheet — use two trays if needed.
- Add goat cheese at the end to prevent melting.
- Stir vegetables halfway to ensure even browning.
- For extra crispiness, pat vegetables dry after washing.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- In a bowl, combine cubed butternut squash, sweet potatoes, and halved Brussels sprouts.
- Toss with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and herbs until well coated.
- Spread vegetables evenly on the baking sheet in a single layer.
- Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until vegetables are golden and tender.
- In a small pan, prepare the cranberry glaze: mix cranberry juice or sauce, honey or maple syrup, and balsamic vinegar. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Transfer roasted vegetables to a serving dish. Drizzle with cranberry glaze.
- Top with dried cranberries, goat cheese, and nuts or seeds if using.
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
Description
This dish is vibrant and inviting — golden orange squash and sweet potatoes, bright green Brussels sprouts, ruby red cranberries, and creamy white goat cheese. Each bite offers layers of flavor: sweet, tangy, savory, and slightly smoky, with a creamy and crunchy texture combination.
Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 200–250 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 25–30 g |
| Protein | 5–7 g |
| Fat | 8–12 g |
| Fiber | 5–7 g |
| Vitamin A | Very high |
| Vitamin C | High |
| Potassium | High |
| Calcium | Moderate |
Conclusion
This roasted vegetable salad is a celebration of flavor and nourishment — an ideal side dish or light meal, perfect for family dinners, festive gatherings, or meal prep. It is hearty yet wholesome, comforting yet elegant.
Recommendation
Serve alongside roasted turkey, chicken, grilled meats, or as a vegetarian centerpiece. For a complete meal, pair with quinoa, couscous, or warm crusty bread. Best served fresh but can be enjoyed chilled the next day.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
This dish proves that indulgence can be nutritious. Sweet vegetables, heart-healthy fats, antioxidant-rich cranberries, and protein-packed goat cheese come together to nourish both body and soul. It’s a reminder that eating well can be vibrant, delicious, and deeply satisfying.