ers with Walnuts & Cranberry-Honey Glaze Recipe

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If you are searching for a vibrant and irresistible dish that brings together a medley of caramelized vegetables with a delightful crunch and a sweet-tangy touch, these ers with Walnuts & Cranberry-Honey Glaze will absolutely steal the show. Imagine tender Brussels sprouts, sweet potato, butternut squash, carrots, and beets, all threaded onto skewers, roasted to perfection, then glazed with a luscious cranberry-honey mixture and topped with crunchy walnuts. This dish bursts with color, flavor, and texture, making it an enchanting addition to any meal or festive gathering.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the perfect balance of flavors and textures is easier than you think with this recipe. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, from the hearty vegetables to the sweet and tangy glaze, coming together to create something truly delicious and visually stunning.

• 12 Brussels sprouts, halved: Their natural earthiness caramelizes beautifully and adds a robust green note.
• 1 small sweet potato, peeled and cubed: Sweet and creamy, it adds body and a subtle sweetness that complements the glaze.
• 1 cup butternut squash, cubed: A velvety texture and mild sweetness that roasts to a golden perfection.
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced: Bright orange and naturally sweet, they add color and crunch.
• 1 small beet, peeled and cubed: Deeply earthy and vibrant red, enhancing the skewer’s visual appeal and flavor depth.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Essential for roasting and bringing out the caramelized edges on the veggies.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste): A simple seasoning that heightens all vegetable flavors.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle heat and balances the sweetness.
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Introduces a smoky warmth that rounds out the dish.
• 1/4 cup walnuts, roughly chopped: For crunch and a nutty flavor that contrasts beautifully with the glaze.
• Glaze: A luscious combination of 1/4 cup cranberry sauce or preserves, 2 tablespoons honey, and 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar that brings tang, sweetness, and a hint of acidity.

How to Make ers with Walnuts & Cranberry-Honey Glaze

Step 1: Prepare and Season the Vegetables

Start by halving the Brussels sprouts and peeling and cubing the sweet potato, butternut squash, and beet, plus slicing the carrots. Toss all these vibrant veggies in olive oil, then sprinkle with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. This seasoning combo ensures every bite is well balanced with a lovely hint of warmth and a savory undertone.

Step 2: Assemble the Skewers

Thread the vegetables onto skewers, alternating to achieve a beautiful, colorful pattern that looks as good as it tastes. This not only makes the presentation pop but also ensures a nice mix of flavors in every bite.

Step 3: Roast or Grill Until Caramelized

Place the assembled skewers on a foil-lined baking sheet or directly on the grill. Roast in a preheated 200°C (400°F) oven or grill for 20 to 25 minutes, turning them halfway through cooking. You’ll want to watch for tender centers and caramelized edges. This step unlocks the natural sweetness and creates that irresistible charred flavor.

Step 4: Make the Cranberry-Honey Glaze

While the skewers cook, gently warm cranberry sauce, honey, and balsamic vinegar in a small saucepan. Stir until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened. This glaze is where the magic happens, adding a glossy finish with a perfect balance of tart cranberry, sweet honey, and tangy vinegar.

Step 5: Glaze and Add Walnuts

Brush the warm glaze generously over the hot skewers for a shiny, flavorful coat. Then sprinkle the chopped walnuts on top for that satisfying crunch and nutty depth of flavor that rounds off the dish beautifully.

How to Serve ers with Walnuts & Cranberry-Honey Glaze

Garnishes

For a fresh pop, consider adding a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or thyme leaves right before serving. This adds a burst of green and a mild herbaceous note that complements both the roasted vegetables and the glaze perfectly.

Side Dishes

These skewers make a fantastic centerpiece or side. Pair them with a simple quinoa salad, creamy mashed potatoes, or even a wild rice pilaf. Their sweet, smoky, and tangy character can brighten up any neutral base, creating a well-rounded meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch, serve the skewers on a rustic wooden board with extra walnuts scattered around and small bowls of remaining cranberry-honey glaze for dipping. You might also elevate the experience by placing the skewers over a bed of fresh arugula dressed lightly with lemon juice, adding a peppery crunch to the dish’s vibrant profile.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your ers with Walnuts & Cranberry-Honey Glaze, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making for a convenient and flavorful next-day treat.

Freezing

While fresh is best for these skewers, you can freeze cooked vegetables separately without the glaze. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to a month. When ready to eat, thaw overnight and reheat, then add freshly prepared glaze and walnuts.

Reheating

To reheat, use an oven or toaster oven set to 180°C (350°F) to preserve the texture and bring back that warmth and caramelization. Avoid microwaving if possible as this can make the vegetables soggy. Finish by brushing on more glaze before serving for maximum flavor.

FAQs

Can I use other nuts instead of walnuts?

Absolutely! Pecans or toasted almonds both work wonderfully if you prefer a different nut flavor or have allergies to walnuts. Just keep them roughly chopped for the best texture contrast.

Is this recipe suitable for a vegan diet?

Yes, simply substitute the honey with maple syrup or agave nectar to keep the glaze vegan-friendly without sacrificing its lovely sweetness.

Can I grill these skewers outdoors?

Definitely. Grilling enhances the smoky notes even further and gives the vegetables a slightly charred flavor that pairs perfectly with the cranberry-honey glaze.

How do I prevent the vegetables from falling off the skewers?

Make sure to cut the vegetables into similar-sized pieces for even cooking and threading. Also, soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before using to reduce the chance of burning and help hold the veggies firm.

Can I prepare these skewers ahead of time?

You can assemble the skewers a few hours in advance and keep them in the refrigerator until ready to cook. Just wait to add the walnuts and glaze until serving time for the best texture and taste.

Final Thoughts

The joyous combination found in ers with Walnuts & Cranberry-Honey Glaze is genuinely something special. It’s a dish that not only dazzles the eyes with its vibrant colors but also delights your palate with sweet, smoky, and tangy layers. Whether you’re serving it as a festive side or a wholesome appetizer, these skewers are ready to become one of your favorite recipes to share with friends and family. I can’t wait for you to try them and discover just how much warmth and comfort can come from a few simple ingredients and a lot of love.

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