Ah, the joy of holiday meals! There’s something incredibly special about gathering around the table with family and friends, sharing laughter and love, and of course, indulging in delicious food. One dish that never fails to steal the spotlight is my holiday roasted vegetables. They’re not just a side dish; they’re a colorful celebration of the season! The sweet potatoes, brussels sprouts, and carrots all caramelize beautifully, creating a warm and inviting aroma that fills the kitchen. I remember my grandmother making these every Thanksgiving, and now it’s a cherished tradition in my home, too. Trust me, once you try these roasted veggies, they’ll become a staple at your holiday gatherings, bringing smiles and satisfaction to everyone at the table!
Ingredients List
- 2 cups brussels sprouts, halved – fresh and vibrant, these little gems add a lovely crunch and earthy flavor.
- 2 cups carrots, chopped – sweet and colorful, they not only brighten up the dish but also bring a delightful sweetness.
- 2 cups sweet potatoes, cubed – creamy and slightly sweet, they add a comforting warmth to the mix.
- 1 red onion, cut into wedges – these provide a nice depth of flavor and a pop of color, making everything look even more festive.
- 4 tablespoons olive oil – this is essential for roasting, giving the veggies a beautiful golden finish while keeping them tender.
- 1 teaspoon salt – a must for enhancing all those lovely flavors!
- 1 teaspoon black pepper – just enough to add a little kick without overpowering the dish.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – because garlic makes everything better and adds a wonderful aroma.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme – this herb brings a lovely earthiness that complements the veggies perfectly.
How to Prepare *Holiday Roasted Vegetables*
- First things first, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This is the magic temperature for roasting those veggies to perfection!
- While the oven warms up, grab a large mixing bowl and toss in the halved brussels sprouts, chopped carrots, cubed sweet potatoes, and red onion wedges. This colorful medley is going to be so delicious!
- Now, drizzle the olive oil over the top. You want to make sure every piece is coated, so sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and dried thyme as well.
- Using your hands (I love getting a little messy!), toss everything together until all the veggies are evenly coated in that luscious oil and seasoning. The smell is already heavenly!
- Next, spread the seasoned vegetables out in a single layer on a large baking sheet. This helps them roast evenly and get that nice caramelization.
- Pop them in the preheated oven and roast for about 25-30 minutes. Here’s a pro tip: stir the veggies halfway through cooking to ensure they brown evenly and don’t stick.
- Once they’re fork-tender and golden brown, take them out of the oven and let them cool for a minute. Serve them warm, and watch everyone at the table rave about your holiday roasted vegetables! They’re sure to be a hit!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a colorful and delicious side dish that complements any holiday meal.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of caramelized sweet potatoes, crunchy brussels sprouts, and sweet carrots creates a medley of flavors that will delight your taste buds.
- Healthy and Wholesome: Packed with vitamins and fiber, these roasted vegetables are a nutritious addition to your holiday feast, making them a guilt-free indulgence.
- Versatile: Feel free to mix in your favorite seasonal vegetables or herbs, allowing you to personalize the dish to your liking!
- Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors of the vegetables not only taste great but also make your holiday table look stunning.
Tips for Success
Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure your holiday roasted vegetables turn out perfectly every time!
- Adjust Seasoning: Don’t hesitate to tweak the salt, pepper, and herbs to suit your taste. A little extra garlic powder can add more punch, or a sprinkle of smoked paprika can bring a delightful twist!
- Mix It Up: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables like parsnips, cauliflower, or even butternut squash. Just keep in mind that cooking times might vary slightly, so watch them closely.
- Uniform Cuts: Aim for similar sizes when chopping your veggies; this ensures even cooking. Bigger pieces might need a little extra time in the oven!
- Don’t Crowd the Pan: If you’re making a larger batch, use two baking sheets instead of cramming everything onto one. This will help them roast nicely and get that crispy texture.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the veggies sit for a few minutes after roasting. This helps the flavors settle and gives you the best taste experience!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous, here are some exciting ways to switch up your holiday roasted vegetables and keep things fresh and fun!
- Herb Swap: Instead of thyme, try using rosemary or sage for an aromatic twist. Fresh herbs can elevate the flavors even more!
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce for some heat. It’s a wonderful contrast to the sweetness of the veggies!
- Root Veggie Delight: Incorporate other root vegetables like parsnips or beets. They add lovely colors and flavors to the mix!
- Citrus Zing: Squeeze some fresh lemon or orange juice over the veggies right before serving for a bright burst of flavor.
- Maple Glaze: Drizzle a bit of maple syrup over the veggies before roasting. It’ll give them a deliciously sticky caramelization!
Feel free to get creative and make these roasted veggies truly your own! Each variation brings its own unique flavor profile, so have fun experimenting!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your holiday roasted vegetables is super simple! Just let them cool completely, then transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the fridge for about 3 to 5 days, perfect for snacking or adding to lunches!
When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheating is a breeze. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spread the vegetables out on a baking sheet. Pop them in the oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until they’re heated through and slightly crispy again. You can also reheat them in the microwave if you’re in a hurry, just be sure to cover the dish to keep them from drying out. Trust me, those delicious flavors will still shine through!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the nutritional goodness packed into these holiday roasted vegetables! While these values are estimates, they give you a good idea of what you’re enjoying with every colorful bite. Each serving (about 1 cup) contains approximately:
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 8g (of which saturated fat is 1g)
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 28g (with 7g of fiber and 5g of sugar)
- Sodium: 300mg
- Cholesterol: 0mg
These holiday roasted vegetables are not only a feast for the eyes but also a healthy addition to your holiday table. They’re full of fiber and vitamins, making them a guilt-free indulgence that you can feel good about serving to your loved ones!
FAQ Section
Got questions about making the perfect holiday roasted vegetables? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries I often hear:
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Sure! Just be aware that frozen veggies can contain more moisture, so they might not get as crispy. You may want to roast them at a slightly higher temperature or for a little longer. Just keep an eye on them!
What’s the best way to season them?
I love using salt, pepper, garlic powder, and thyme, but feel free to get creative! Add your favorite herbs or spices like rosemary or paprika to really make the flavors pop.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can roast them a day in advance and store them in the fridge. Just reheat them in the oven before serving to bring back that delicious flavor and warmth.
What other vegetables can I use?
The sky’s the limit! Try adding cauliflower, zucchini, or even parsnips for a unique touch. Just remember to cut them into similar sizes for even roasting!
Can I make these vegan?
Yes! This recipe is already vegan-friendly, so you’re all set to enjoy these colorful and tasty holiday roasted vegetables without any worries!
Holiday Roasted Vegetables: 7 Secrets for Ultimate Flavor
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A colorful mix of roasted vegetables perfect for holiday meals.
Ingredients
- 2 cups brussels sprouts, halved
- 2 cups carrots, chopped
- 2 cups sweet potatoes, cubed
- 1 red onion, cut into wedges
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the brussels sprouts, carrots, sweet potatoes, and red onion.
- Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and thyme.
- Toss to coat the vegetables evenly.
- Spread the vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Roast for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until tender and golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and serve warm.
Notes
- Adjust seasoning to your taste.
- Feel free to add your favorite vegetables.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: holiday roasted vegetables, roasted vegetables, side dish
