Pecans & Maple-Pomegranate Glaze Recipe

If you are on the lookout for a dish that bursts with vibrant colors, irresistible textures, and a harmony of sweet and tangy flavors, this Roasted Root Vegetables & Brussels Sprouts with Feta, Pecans & Maple-Pomegranate Glaze is going to steal your heart. The key to its magic lies in the Pecans & Maple-Pomegranate Glaze, which elevates simple roasted vegetables into a gourmet experience, balancing the earthiness of the roots with a luscious sheen of sweet and tart notes. Every bite feels like a warm hug, perfect as a comforting side or even a main for those evenings when you want something nourishing yet exciting.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering just a handful of fresh, straightforward ingredients sets the stage for this dish’s incredible flavors. Each element plays its part, from the crisp Brussels sprouts bringing a slight bite to the melt-in-your-mouth sweetness of the carrots and parsnip, while the Pecans & Maple-Pomegranate Glaze ties everything together with a glossy, rich finish.

• Brussels sprouts (1 lb, trimmed and halved): Their natural bitterness softens and caramelizes beautifully when roasted.
• Carrots (2 medium, peeled and sliced): Add a vibrant orange color and a gentle sweetness to the mix.
• Parsnip (1 medium, peeled and sliced): Offers a subtle earthiness with a creamy texture when roasted.
• Sweet potato (1 medium, peeled and diced): Brings hearty sweetness and soft, tender bites.
• Olive oil (2 tbsp): Helps everything roast evenly and adds a silky richness.
• Salt and black pepper (to taste): Enhance all the natural flavors with a touch of seasoning.
• Pure maple syrup (3 tbsp): The soul of the glaze, giving it that romantic sweetness.
• Pomegranate molasses (2 tbsp): Injects a deep tang and complexity to the glaze’s flavor profile.
• Dijon mustard (1 tsp, optional): Adds a subtle sharpness that balances the sweetness perfectly.
• Crumbled feta cheese (¼ cup): Lends a creamy, salty contrast that brightens every bite.
• Toasted pecans (¼ cup, roughly chopped): Deliver a satisfying crunch and nutty warmth to finish the dish.

How to Make Pecans & Maple-Pomegranate Glaze

Step 1: Prepare and Roast the Vegetables

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C) so it’s ready to deeply caramelize your vegetables. Toss your trimmed Brussels sprouts, sliced carrots, parsnip, and sweet potato in olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them evenly on a baking sheet to ensure every piece roasts to perfection with nice crispy edges. Roast for about 25 to 30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are tender and irresistibly golden brown.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Glaze

While your vegetables are roasting, combine the pure maple syrup, pomegranate molasses, and Dijon mustard in a small bowl. Whisk until smooth and glossy. This Pecans & Maple-Pomegranate Glaze is what transforms the dish from simple to show-stopping, infusing every bite with balanced sweetness and tang.

Step 3: Coat the Vegetables and Finish

Once your vegetables are perfectly roasted, drizzle the glaze over them while they are still warm. Toss gently to coat each gorgeous piece evenly with that sticky, flavorful glaze. Then transfer everything to a serving platter and sprinkle with crumbled feta and toasted pecans. These toppings add a luxurious creamy and crunchy finish that elevates the dish even further.

How to Serve Pecans & Maple-Pomegranate Glaze

Garnishes

Adding fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can brighten the dish visually and add an extra herbaceous note that complements the glaze and feta. A light sprinkle of sea salt right before serving will enhance the nutty, sweet flavors in the Pecans & Maple-Pomegranate Glaze.

Side Dishes

This dish shines beautifully alongside roasted chicken or grilled fish, providing a layer of warmth and depth. It also pairs wonderfully with a simple quinoa salad or creamy polenta, making it a versatile addition to many meals.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider serving the roasted vegetables and pecans on a rustic wooden board for a shared, family-style feel, or arrange the components on a bright, white platter to really make the colors pop. Drizzle a little extra glaze decoratively around the plate to impress your guests with both taste and presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover roasted vegetables with the Pecans & Maple-Pomegranate Glaze keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The nuts might soften slightly but will still add wonderful flavor and texture.

Freezing

To freeze, arrange the roasted veggies without the glaze in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. It’s best to add the glaze and toppings after thawing to preserve their fresh flavors and textures.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a 350°F oven or stovetop skillet until warmed through, then add a fresh drizzle of the Pecans & Maple-Pomegranate Glaze and sprinkle with feta and pecans before serving to revive that just-made magic.

FAQs

Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?

Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds are great alternatives that will still bring a lovely crunch and nutty flavor to complement the glaze.

Is pomegranate molasses necessary?

While it adds the essential tang and depth to the glaze, you can substitute with a mix of lemon juice and a little honey if you don’t have pomegranate molasses on hand.

Can this dish be made vegan?

Definitely! Simply omit the feta or replace it with a plant-based cheese or nutritional yeast for that salty contrast.

What’s the best way to toast pecans?

Toast pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3 to 5 minutes, shaking frequently, until fragrant and lightly browned. This brings out their flavor without overwhelming the dish.

How do I make sure the vegetables don’t get soggy when roasted?

Make sure to spread the vegetables in a single layer and avoid overcrowding the pan. This allows them to roast evenly with nice caramelization instead of steaming.

Final Thoughts

This Roasted Root Vegetables & Brussels Sprouts recipe with Pecans & Maple-Pomegranate Glaze is one of those dishes that feels both special and comfortably familiar. The layers of texture and flavor come together so beautifully, it’s hard not to keep stealing bites right off the platter. I can’t wait for you to try this at your next meal and enjoy how the glaze brings every ingredient to life in the most delicious way.