wer & Brussels Sprouts with Maple Pecans Recipe

If you are on the lookout for a side dish that bursts with flavor, texture, and fall-ready charm, you are in for a treat with this wer & Brussels Sprouts with Maple Pecans recipe. Combining the caramelized sweetness of roasted cauliflower and Brussels sprouts with the crunchy, kissed-by-maple warmth of toasted pecans, this dish brings together the best of savory and sweet in a simple, elegant way. Each bite delivers a delightful contrast—tender, slightly tangy vegetables meet rich, nutty pecans that have been laced with just the right hint of maple syrup. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a weeknight dinner, this vibrant dish easily steals the show.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this wer & Brussels Sprouts with Maple Pecans recipe lies in its simplicity and the harmony of each ingredient. Each component plays a vital role: from the juicy bite of Brussels sprouts to the earthiness of cauliflower, enhanced by a balsamic drizzle that lifts everything up, and pecans that add a perfect, sweet crunch. Let’s take a look at the essentials.

• Cauliflower florets (2 cups / 200 g): The star that offers a tender yet firm texture and absorbs the balsamic glaze beautifully.
• Brussels sprouts (2 cups, halved / 180 g): Adds a slightly bitter but satisfying earthiness and caramelizes wonderfully when roasted.
• Olive oil (3 tablespoons / 45 ml): Helps to roast the veggies perfectly while adding a silky richness.
• Balsamic vinegar (2 tablespoons / 30 ml): Imparts acidity and a subtle sweetness that balances the veggies’ natural flavor.
• Salt and black pepper: Essential for enhancing every layer of flavor in the dish.
• Pecans (1/2 cup / 50 g): Provides buttery crunch and earthy notes.
• Maple syrup (1 tablespoon / 15 ml): Adds a hint of warm sweetness that perfectly complements the pecans and vegetables.
• Pinch of salt for pecans: Balances the sweetness and heightens the nutty flavors.
• Optional Garnish – Fresh thyme or parsley: Adds a pop of green color and a fresh, herbaceous finish.

How to Make wer & Brussels Sprouts with Maple Pecans

Step 1: Prepare and Toss the Vegetables

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large bowl, combine the cauliflower florets and halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and a generous crack of black pepper. Toss everything until the vegetables are evenly coated, ensuring every piece will roast to crispy, caramelized perfection. This step is crucial for the depth of flavor you’re aiming for.

Step 2: Roast to Golden Perfection

Spread the tossed vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet. Pop them into the hot oven and roast for 20 to 25 minutes. Halfway through, give the pan a quick shake or stir to encourage even cooking and browning. Keep an eye out—the vegetables should become tender inside with golden, slightly crispy edges, coaxing out their natural sweetness.

Step 3: Toast the Maple Pecans

While the vegetables roast, it’s time to bring the pecans into their spotlight moment. Toss the pecans in a small bowl with maple syrup and a pinch of salt until they are shiny and well-coated. Heat a small skillet over medium heat, and toast the pecans for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring frequently, until they smell fragrant and are lightly caramelized. This quick step amps up their flavor and gives a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the roasted veggies.

Step 4: Combine and Garnish

Once your wer & Brussels Sprouts with Maple Pecans are ready, transfer the vegetables to a serving dish and sprinkle the warm, toasty maple pecans over them. For an added fresh aroma and a burst of color, sprinkle with chopped fresh thyme or parsley. This final flourish makes the dish look as gorgeous as it tastes.

How to Serve wer & Brussels Sprouts with Maple Pecans

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley are a go-to garnish for this dish, adding a bright, fresh note that balances the roasted richness. If you want to experiment, a little lemon zest or even a sprinkle of grated Parmesan can work wonders for added complexity.

Side Dishes

This vibrant dish pairs beautifully with hearty mains such as roast chicken, grilled salmon, or even a simple pasta dish. The sweet and savory elements of the wer & Brussels Sprouts with Maple Pecans also complement grain-based sides like quinoa or wild rice for a wholesome, well-rounded meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider serving this dish in a rustic wooden bowl or on a large slate platter for a lovely autumnal presentation. You can also toss the roasted veggies and pecans with some cooked farro or couscous for a warm salad. For a festive touch, adding a few dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds gives both color and a subtle sweetness that delights the senses.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen, so it’s actually a perfect make-ahead side to enjoy the next day.

Freezing

While not ideal, you can freeze this dish if needed. Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Keep in mind that the texture of the roasted vegetables will soften after thawing, and the pecans could lose some crunch.

Reheating

The best way to reheat your wer & Brussels Sprouts with Maple Pecans is in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This method helps preserve the veggies’ texture and brings back some crispness to the pecans. Avoid microwaving if you want to retain maximum flavor and crunch.

FAQs

Can I substitute the pecans with other nuts?

Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds work well and bring their own unique textures and flavors. Just toast them with the maple syrup as you would the pecans for the best result.

Is this dish suitable for vegans?

Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan-friendly. Just be sure to choose a pure maple syrup without any added animal products.

Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?

You can, but fresh is highly recommended for this dish to achieve the best roasted texture. If using frozen, make sure to thaw and pat the veggies dry before roasting to avoid excess moisture.

What can I do to make the Brussels sprouts less bitter?

Trimming and halving the Brussels sprouts as shown in the recipe helps reduce bitterness, and roasting them with balsamic vinegar brings out their natural sweetness, balancing the flavors nicely.

How long do the maple pecans stay crunchy?

When kept in an airtight container at room temperature, the maple pecans stay crunchy for up to a week. If you add them to the roasted vegetables in advance, they might soften slightly over time.

Final Thoughts

This wer & Brussels Sprouts with Maple Pecans recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug from the inside out—a perfect blend of hearty, sweet, and tangy that invites you to enjoy vegetables in a whole new way. It’s easy enough to whip up any day but special enough for entertaining, and trust me, your guests will be asking for seconds. Don’t hesitate to make this dish your new go-to; every bite is pure comfort and delight.

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