Introduction
As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, it’s the perfect time for a dish that celebrates the season. This Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts and Butternut Squash Salad brings together warm, seasonal ingredients with the creamy indulgence of burrata, the savory crunch of bacon, and the earthy flavor of walnuts. It’s a vibrant and hearty salad that can serve as a meal or a delightful side.
The balance of sweet maple, nutty roasted vegetables, and tangy feta creates an explosion of flavors and textures. Each bite is a celebration of fall’s bounty, making this salad not just a dish, but an experience to savor. Whether you're hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet night in, it’s a dish that elevates any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts
Brussels sprouts are the star of this dish, providing a hearty base. When roasted, they develop a caramelized exterior while maintaining a tender center, enhancing their natural sweetness. - 1 medium butternut squash
Butternut squash adds a beautiful sweetness and creaminess to the salad, complementing the Brussels sprouts and providing a vibrant color contrast. It also provides essential nutrients like vitamins A and C. - 2 tablespoons olive oil
Olive oil acts as a healthy fat necessary for roasting, helping to create a crispy texture on the vegetables while adding depth of flavor. Plus, it keeps the dish feeling light and fresh. - 4 tablespoons maple syrup
Maple syrup is the sweet star of the dressing, providing a natural sweetness that balances the bitterness of Brussels sprouts and the nuttiness of the squash, creating a harmonious flavor profile. - salt and pepper to taste
Salt and pepper are essential for enhancing the natural flavors of the vegetables. A well-seasoned dish ensures that each component shines through in the final product. - 4 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
Feta cheese introduces a tangy and creamy element that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the roasted vegetables, adding complexity and richness to the salad. - 4 ounces burrata cheese
Burrata is a luxurious addition that brings creaminess to the dish. Its soft texture invites you to break it apart, providing a luscious element that elevates the overall salad experience. - 4 slices of bacon, cooked and chopped
Bacon adds a crispy texture and smoky flavor that complements the sweetness of the vegetables, introducing an umami element to the dish that balances the other ingredients. - 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
Walnuts provide a nutty crunch and an additional layer of flavor. They also offer healthy fats, which make this salad more filling and satisfying. - 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
Balsamic vinegar adds a hint of acidity that balances the sweetness of the maple syrup and roasted vegetables, enhancing the overall flavor profile and giving the dish a more complex taste.
Directions & Preparation
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Preheating the oven is crucial for achieving that ideal crispy roast on the Brussels sprouts and butternut squash. An adequately heated oven allows the vegetables to caramelize properly, enhancing their flavors and ensuring they are tender on the inside.
Step 2: Prepare the Brussels sprouts and butternut squash.
Trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts and cut them in half, making sure to remove any yellowed leaves. For the butternut squash, peel and cube it into even pieces. This uniformity ensures that both vegetables cook evenly, leading to a harmonious texture in the final salad.
Step 3: Toss the vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Coating the vegetables with olive oil helps them roast to a golden brown perfection, while salt and pepper enhance their natural flavors. This step is essential for building the foundational taste of the salad, ensuring every bite packs a flavorful punch.
Step 4: Spread the Brussels sprouts and butternut squash on a baking sheet.
Avoid overcrowding the vegetables on the baking sheet; this allows for proper airflow and caramelization. If they are crowded, they might steam instead of roast, losing that delightful texture you’re aiming for.
Step 5: Roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Roasting at this temperature allows for the vegetables to become beautifully caramelized and tender. Stirring midway ensures even cooking and browning, maximizing flavor development.
Step 6: Remove from oven and drizzle with maple syrup.
Adding maple syrup after roasting preserves its natural flavor and sweetness. This technique creates a sticky glaze that clings to the roasted vegetables, enhancing their appeal and adding a lovely shine.
Step 7: Let the mixture cool slightly.
Allowing the roasted vegetables to cool slightly before adding other ingredients helps retain their texture. This cooling also ensures that the salad won’t melt the burrata and keeps flavors distinct.
Step 8: In a large bowl, combine the roasted vegetables with bacon, walnuts, and feta.
This is where all your flavors come together. The warm vegetables will slightly soften the feta while the bacon and walnuts provide crunch. Tossing all these elements ensures each bite is a delightful mix of flavors and textures.
Step 9: Plate the salad and top with burrata.
Plating the salad with burrata on top offers a visual appeal that’s sure to impress. It also invites diners to break into the burrata, releasing its creamy interior—leading to a luxurious eating experience.
Step 10: Drizzle with balsamic vinegar just before serving.
The balsamic vinegar adds a final touch of acidity that brightens the dish right before serving. This step should be done at the last minute, keeping the freshness intact and ensuring vibrant flavor.
The Art of Roasting for Maximum Flavor
Roasting vegetables can transform their flavors, making them more delicious than ever. The caramelization process creates a sweet, deep flavor while enhancing their natural textures. By paying attention to the temperature and cooking time, you'll ensure even browning and tender interiors. This salad perfectly showcases how roasting can turn simple vegetables into a hearty dish bursting with flavor.
Choosing the Right Cheese: Feta vs. Burrata
Cheese adds depth and complexity to salads, and understanding the difference between feta and burrata is key. Feta offers a tangy, crumbly texture that contrasts well with roasted vegetables, while burrata brings creaminess that melts into the dish. Combining both provides a dynamic tension between textures and flavors, enhancing your salad experience and turning it into a luxurious delight.
Nuts About Walnuts: The Perfect Crunch
Incorporating nuts like walnuts into your salads adds essential texture and flavor. They provide a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creaminess of burrata and feta. Plus, walnuts are packed with nutrients, contributing healthy fats and protein to your meal. Toasting them lightly before adding enhances their nutty flavor, making them an appetizing addition to any dish.
FAQs
What if my Brussels sprouts are too bitter?
If your Brussels sprouts turn out bitter, consider soaking them in saltwater for about 30 minutes prior to cooking. This helps reduce bitterness, allowing their natural sweetness to shine through during roasting.
Can I use a different nut in this salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute walnuts with pecans or almonds, which will bring their unique flavors and textures to the dish. Just make sure to toast them to enhance their nuttiness.
Why did my salad turn out too dry?
If your salad ends up dry, it could be that the vegetables absorbed too much maple syrup or you didn’t use enough olive oil. Ensure each ingredient is properly coated, and add extra olive oil or balsamic vinegar to bring moisture back to the salad.
Can I make this salad vegan?
To make this salad vegan, substitute the burrata and feta with dairy-free cheese alternatives and replace bacon with a smoky tempeh or a plant-based bacon. This maintains the flavor profile while keeping it vegan-friendly.
How can I add more sweetness without altering the dish?
If you're looking to enhance the sweetness without overpowering the salad, consider adding additional maple syrup gradually until you reach your desired taste. Alternatively, a touch of honey can also work well.
What should I do if my butternut squash is still hard after roasting?
If your butternut squash is hard after roasting, it may not have been baked for long enough. To fix this, simply return it to the oven and continue cooking until tender. Cut the pieces smaller next time for even cooking.
Conclusion
This Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts and Butternut Squash Salad is a testament to the beauty of seasonal cooking. With its contrasting flavors, textures, and colors, it’s not just a dish but a celebration of autumn's bounty. As you enjoy this salad, take a moment to appreciate the time spent preparing it and the joy it brings to your table.
Whether as a main dish for a cozy dinner or as a colorful side for festive gatherings, it promises to make any meal more delightful. Embrace the flavors of the season and let this salad warm your heart and home.
Recipe Card
Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts and Butternut Squash Salad
Ingredients
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts
- 1 medium butternut squash
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons maple syrup
- salt and pepper to taste
- 4 ounces feta cheese crumbled
- 4 ounces burrata cheese
- 4 slices of bacon cooked and chopped
- 1/2 cup walnuts chopped
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the Brussels sprouts and butternut squash.
- Toss the vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the Brussels sprouts and butternut squash on a baking sheet.
- Roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Remove from oven and drizzle with maple syrup.
- Let the mixture cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, combine the roasted vegetables with bacon, walnuts, and feta.
- Plate the salad and top with burrata.
- Drizzle with balsamic vinegar just before serving.
Notes
Additional serving suggestions: pair with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables for balance.
For make-ahead, prep components separately and assemble just before heating to preserve texture.
Taste and adjust with acid (lemon/vinegar) and salt right at the end to wake up flavors.
