Roasted Fall Vegetables with Honey Chipotle Walnuts
- Â Large mixing bowl
INGREDIENTS
- 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cut into chunks
- 1 large carrot, peeled and cut into pieces
- 1 acorn squash, halved, deseeded, and sliced into wedges
- 1 –2 gold potatoes, sliced into rounds then halved
- 3 shallots, quartered
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chipotle powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Walnuts:
- 1 cup California walnuts
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon chipotle powder
INSTRUCTIONS
- Preheat the oven to 400°F/200°C.
- In a large bowl, toss all the vegetables with olive oil, chipotle powder, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne until evenly coated. Transfer to a large baking dish.
- Combine the walnuts, honey, olive oil, thyme, and chipotle powder in a small bowl. Spread the glazed walnuts evenly over the vegetables.
- Cover the dish with foil and roast for 30–40 minutes, until the vegetables are nearly tender.
- Remove the foil and roast for another 30–35 minutes, or until fork-tender and lightly caramelized. Oven times may vary.
- Garnish with additional fresh thyme and flaky sea salt before serving.
FAQ
Can I make these roasted fall vegetables ahead of time?
The vegetables can be prepared ahead of time by chopping and seasoning the vegetables in advance and storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. For best results, add the honey chipotle walnuts just before roasting or during the last 10 minutes of cooking to maintain their texture. Reheat the vegetables in the oven at 350°F/175°C until warmed through, which preserves their caramelization and flavor without making them soggy.
How can I adjust the spice level in roasted fall vegetables?
Reduce or omit the cayenne and chipotle powder if you prefer mild heat, or increase them for more kick. You can also experiment with smoked paprika or chili powder to create a different flavor profile.
What are good substitutions for acorn squash?
Other sweet, dense winter squash varieties like kabocha, delicata, or buttercup squash work well in roasted fall vegetables. Pumpkin or sweet potato can also be used to add a similar sweetness and texture. Ensure the substitute is cut into pieces similar in size to the other vegetables so that everything cooks evenly.
How do I store and reheat leftover roasted fall vegetables?
Store the vegetables in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. To reheat, spread the vegetables on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F/175°C oven until heated through, which helps preserve the texture and caramelization. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the vegetables soggy. If using honey-coated nuts, add them after reheating to maintain their crunch and flavor, ensuring your roasted fall vegetables remain vibrant and delicious.
Can I use frozen vegetables to make this refcipe?
If you use frozen vegetables, thaw and pat them dry thoroughly to avoid excess moisture, which can prevent browning. Adjust the baking time slightly, as frozen vegetables may release more water. Adding honey chipotle walnuts at the end of roasting helps maintain their texture and ensures the sweet-spicy contrast complements the roasted vegetables even when using frozen produce.
How do I ensure even roasting for all vegetables?
Cut all vegetables into uniform sizes so they cook at the same rate. Arrange them in a single layer on the baking dish to allow hot air to circulate, avoiding overcrowding. Toss halfway through baking to ensure consistent caramelization. Using a combination of root vegetables and squash works best when the pieces are similar in size.
Can I turn this roasted fall vegetables recipe into a main dish?
Yes, by adding protein or grains. Roasted chickpeas, tempeh, or pan-seared tofu create a vegan option, while chicken, pork, or sausage can be added for a meat-based meal. Serving over quinoa, farro, or rice creates a complete, satisfying plate. Drizzling extra honey chipotle walnut glaze over the top elevates the flavors.
