Introduction

At the intersection of flavor and nutrition lies a vibrant dish that captures the essence of autumn: maple-glazed Brussels sprouts and butternut squash salad. This medley brings together earthy vegetables enhanced by the sweetness of maple syrup, luscious burrata, and the crunch of walnuts for a perfect salad.

Whether you're hosting a fall gathering or seeking a nutritious side dish, this recipe combines the rustic flavors of roasted Brussels sprouts and squash with the creamy indulgence of burrata and the smoky accent of bacon. Each ingredient plays a role in crafting a colorful masterpiece that delights both the eyes and palate.

With a harmonious blend of colors, textures, and tastes, this salad is not only easy to prepare but also a fantastic way to embrace the health benefits of seasonal produce.

Ingredients

1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
Brussels sprouts add a rich, nutty flavor and are packed with nutrients like vitamins K and C. Trimming and halving them ensures even roasting and a tender edge.
1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
Butternut squash lends a sweet, buttery flavor to the salad. Its creamy texture pairs beautifully with the crunchy Brussels sprouts to create variety in every bite.
3 tablespoons maple syrup
Maple syrup adds a natural sweetness that balances the slight bitterness of the Brussels sprouts, enriching the dish's overall flavor profile.
4 ounces burrata cheese, torn into pieces
Burrata brings creaminess and a touch of luxury to the salad. The contrast of its silky insides with the crunchy vegetables elevates the dish.
4 slices of bacon, cooked and chopped
Bacon offers a savory, smoky depth that enhances the sweetness of the maple glaze, creating a well-rounded flavor experience.
1/2 cup walnuts, toasted
Toasted walnuts add a delightful crunch and their rich, earthy flavor complements the other ingredients, ensuring a satisfying texture in every mouthful.
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
Feta introduces a tangy salty note that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the vegetables and syrup, contributing to an interesting flavor complexity.
Salt and pepper to taste
These basic seasonings enhance and balance the flavors of the dish, accentuating the natural taste of every ingredient.
2 tablespoons olive oil
Olive oil is vital for roasting the vegetables, helping to crisp their edges while contributing a rich flavor that binds the salad together.

Directions & Preparation

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

Preheating the oven is essential for achieving perfectly roasted Brussels sprouts and butternut squash. At this temperature, the vegetables will caramelize, locking in their natural sweetness and creating a delightful texture.

Step 2: Prepare the veggies by trimming and halving Brussels sprouts and peeling and cubing the butternut squash.

Taking the time to properly prep your vegetables is fundamental to the cooking process. This ensures they each roast uniformly, giving you tender Brussels sprouts and perfectly cooked squash in the same bake.

Step 3: In a large bowl, toss the Brussels sprouts and butternut squash with olive oil, maple syrup, salt, and pepper.

Coating the vegetables evenly with oil and maple syrup will promote even caramelization during roasting. The salt and pepper enhance the flavor profiles, making each bite taste more vibrant.

Step 4: Spread the vegetables on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through.

Roasting at high heat allows the sugars in the vegetables to caramelize, bringing out their natural sweetness. Stirring midway ensures they cook evenly and develop that coveted golden exterior.

Step 5: While the veggies roast, cook the bacon until crispy and chop it into pieces.

Crisping the bacon not only adds great flavor but also prevents it from becoming chewy in the salad. The rendered fat can even be reserved for additional flavor if desired.

Step 6: Once roasted, remove the vegetables from the oven and let them cool slightly.

Allowing the vegetables to cool slightly before combining them with the cheese and bacon helps maintain their texture and prevents the burrata from melting too quickly.

Step 7: In a large serving dish, combine the roasted Brussels sprouts and butternut squash with the bacon, walnuts, burrata, and feta.

Combining all elements while they’re still warm encourages flavors to meld together. The creamy burrata will slightly soften, making it easy to mix and enjoy with the other ingredients.

Step 8: Drizzle with additional maple syrup or olive oil if desired, and serve warm.

This final touch can enhance the dish’s overall richness. Serving warm ensures the flavors are fresh and vibrant, creating an inviting dish suitable for any table.

Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts and Butternut Squash Salad with Burrata Bacon Walnuts and Feta step photo

The Role of Maple Syrup in Balance

Maple syrup is not just a sweetener in this salad; it plays a crucial role in balancing the dish’s flavors. Its natural sugars enhance the earthy notes of the Brussels sprouts and butternut squash, creating a sweet contrast to the savory bacon and tangy feta. The syrup's caramelization during roasting intensifies this effect, delivering a delightful depth that accentuates the overall culinary experience.

Burrata: A Creamy Showstopper

The addition of burrata cheese elevates this salad far beyond traditional fare. With its luxurious, creamy interior and delicate outer shell, burrata contributes a sumptuous mouthfeel that complements the crunch of the roasted vegetables. Its richness pairs exceptionally well with the sweetness of the maple glaze, delivering a sophisticated element to the dish that will impress your family or guests.

Walnuts: The Unsung Hero

Often overlooked, toasted walnuts are a core player in this salad's success. They provide not just a crunchy texture but also a rich, nutty flavor that rounds out the dish. By toasting them, you awaken their oils, intensifying the taste and aroma, adding an extra layer of depth. This nuttiness punctuates every bite, tying the sweet and savory components together brilliantly.

FAQs

What if my maple glaze is too thick?

If your maple glaze becomes too thick while roasting, you can add a splash of water or olive oil to thin it out before drizzling it over the salad. Stir it in to achieve the desired consistency.

How can I adjust this salad for more servings?

To scale this recipe, simply multiply the quantities of each ingredient by the number of servings needed. Ensure your roasting pan is large enough to accommodate the increased volume.

Can I use other greens instead of Brussels sprouts?

You can certainly substitute Brussels sprouts with greens like kale or spinach, though the cooking time will vary as these greens require less roasting.

What should I do if my butternut squash is undercooked?

If you find your butternut squash undercooked after the specified roasting time, return it to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes, checking for tenderness with a fork.

Is there a recommended way to serve remaining salad?

If you have leftovers, try serving the salad chilled the next day; the flavors will meld even more, creating a delightfully fresh take on this dish.

What can I use instead of feta cheese?

You can substitute feta with goat cheese or ricotta for a similar creamy texture, with a slightly different flavor profile complementing the other ingredients.

Conclusion

Creating a Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts and Butternut Squash Salad opens up a world of flavor that excites the palate and nourishes the body. Each bite invites you to savor the rich company of seasonal ingredients that celebrate autumn's bounty.

Whether as a main event or a side dish, this salad captivates with its blend of textures and tastes. Dive in, relish the creaminess of burrata, and appreciate every crunchy, sweet bite, knowing you’ve crafted something truly delicious.

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