Introduction
As the leaves turn and the air becomes crisp, it's the perfect time to embrace hearty salads that celebrate the season's bounty. This dish combines the earthy richness of Brussels sprouts and the sweet, nutty depth of butternut squash, all brought to life with a luscious maple glaze. Topped with creamy burrata, crispy bacon, and crunchy walnuts, this salad transforms into a meal that’s both comforting and vibrant.
Perfectly balancing texture and flavor, the layers of this salad invite you to dig in. Sweet, savory, and a touch of creaminess come together in a way that’s undeniably satisfying. Whether served as a side or a main dish, it enhances any fall table and can easily impress guests or soothe your own cravings.
Ingredients
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, halved
These little cabbages bring a robust, slightly bitter flavor that beautifully contrasts the sweetness of the maple glaze. Their firm texture adds substantial bite and makes them a nutritious staple. - 2 cups butternut squash, diced
Butternut squash is sweet and creamy when roasted, providing a delightful counterpart to the Brussels sprouts. It also adds a vibrant color that enhances the salad's visual appeal. - 3 tablespoons maple syrup
Maple syrup not only sweetens the dish but also caramelizes during roasting, creating a delicious glaze that clings to the vegetables, enhancing their natural flavors. - 4 oz burrata cheese, torn
Burrata, with its creamy interior, adds a luxurious richness to the salad. Its milky flavor complements the roasted vegetables perfectly. - 4 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled
Crispy bacon adds a savory, smoky flavor and crunchy texture that balances the salad’s sweetness, rounding out the overall taste experience. - 1/2 cup walnuts, toasted
Walnuts contribute a satisfying crunch and earthy flavor, providing healthy fats and additional protein to help keep the salad hearty. - 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
Feta brings a salty, tangy element that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the maple glaze. It adds complexity to each bite. - 2 tablespoons olive oil
This oil serves as the base for roasting the vegetables, enhancing their flavor while ensuring a crispy texture. It's also a healthier fat choice. - Salt and pepper, to taste
Seasoning is essential to balance the sweet and savory notes. A pinch of salt and a dash of pepper enhance the inherent flavors without overpowering them. - 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
A splash of balsamic can elevate the dish, adding a touch of acidity that cuts through the richness of the cheese and bacon.
Directions & Preparation
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
Starting with a hot oven is crucial for roasting vegetables, as it helps them caramelize and develop a rich, deep flavor. Preheating ensures that the Brussels sprouts and butternut squash cook evenly and achieve a deliciously crispy texture.
Step 2: Prepare the Brussels sprouts and butternut squash.
Halving the Brussels sprouts and dicing the butternut squash creates pieces of uniform size, allowing for even cooking. This step is essential to ensure that every bite is tender and flavorful. Take extra time to trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts for best results.
Step 3: Toss the vegetables with olive oil, maple syrup, salt, and pepper.
Coating the vegetables in olive oil and maple syrup before roasting not only enhances their flavors but also aids in achieving a caramelized finish. This step is crucial as it allows the maple glaze to stick during roasting, creating a delightful sweetness.
Step 4: Spread the vegetables on a baking sheet in a single layer.
Arranging the vegetables in a single layer prevents steaming and promotes browning, which develops complex flavors and textures. If they are overcrowded, you risk soggy vegetables rather than beautifully roasted ones.
Step 5: Roast for 20-25 minutes until caramelized.
Roasting at high heat creates a nice char and deepens the flavors, making the vegetables sweet and savory. Tossing halfway through ensures even cooking and prevents burning on one side.
Step 6: Cook the bacon until crispy and crumble it aside.
Crispy bacon adds texture and a savory element that brings all the flavors together. It’s important to let the bacon cool before crumbling to ensure it maintains its crispy texture rather than becoming soggy.
Step 7: In a large bowl, combine the roasted vegetables, bacon, and toasted walnuts.
Combining these ingredients while they’re still warm allows them to meld together, as the warmth slightly melts the burrata when added later. This step enhances the overall flavor and helps integrate various elements of the salad.
Step 8: Add burrata and feta on top of the salad.
Burrata should be added last to maintain its creamy texture and structure. This addition elevates the salad, giving it a luxurious quality while the feta offers a sharp contrast to the other flavors.
Step 9: Drizzle with balsamic vinegar if using, then serve.
A final drizzle of balsamic vinegar adds brightness to the dish, balancing the sweetness with a bit of acidity. This step transforms the dish into a beautifully presented salad, inviting everyone to dig in.
Perfecting the Maple Glaze
The maple glaze is the heart of the dish, infusing the vegetables with a distinct sweetness that enhances their natural flavors. To achieve the best glaze, make sure to use pure maple syrup for a rich depth of flavor. As the vegetables caramelize in the oven, the sugars in the maple syrup develop a complex taste profile, offering a delightful contrast to the savory elements of the dish.
The Role of Burrata in Salads
Burrata adds a luxurious richness to this seasonal salad, acting as the perfect contrast to the earthy Brussels sprouts and sweet butternut squash. Its creamy interior creates a silky mouthfeel that pulls the entire dish together. When served alongside warm vegetables, the burrata gently melts, enhancing the experience and adding a delightful creaminess that demands to be savored in every bite.
Balancing Textures for a Satisfying Meal
Texture is key in this salad, where each ingredient contributes to the overall experience. The crispy bacon, crunchy walnuts, and creamy burrata interweave with the tender roasted vegetables, creating a delightful mouthfeel. Each bite is a wonderful interplay of flavors and textures, ensuring that the salad feels hearty while remaining vibrant and refreshing, making it both satisfying and nutritious.
FAQs
What if my Brussels sprouts are too bitter?
If your Brussels sprouts taste too bitter, try soaking them in salted water for about 30 minutes before cooking. This soaking can help reduce bitterness while enhancing their flavor.
Can I use pecans instead of walnuts?
Yes, pecans are a great substitute for walnuts and will add a different nutty flavor to the salad, while still providing crunch and richness.
What can I do if the maple glaze is too thick?
If the glaze seems too thick, add a teaspoon of olive oil or a splash of warm water to loosen it up. This will help it better coat the vegetables.
Could I add additional vegetables to this salad?
Absolutely! Roasted carrots or sweet potatoes would complement the existing flavors nicely while adding more color and nutrition.
How can I tell if my squash is cooked through?
The squash is finished when it's tender and easily pierced with a fork. It should be slightly caramelized on the edges for the best flavor.
What if my bacon isn’t crispy enough?
If your bacon isn't crispy, return it to the pan on medium heat, allowing it to cook longer until it reaches your desired level of crispness.
Conclusion
This Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts and Butternut Squash Salad is more than just a meal; it's a celebration of flavors and textures that embodies the essence of fall. Each ingredient plays a vital role, creating a balance that is both satisfying and invigorating.
Perfect for a holiday gathering or a casual weeknight dinner, this salad invites you to enjoy the comforts of autumn cuisine. With its vibrant colors and delicious flavors, it stands as a delightful centerpiece that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Recipe Card
Mouthwatering Ruth's Chris Stuffed Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup creamy ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup fresh spinach chopped
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for drizzling
- 1 cup breadcrumbs for topping
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the stuffing by mixing ricotta, mozzarella, spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Make a pocket in each chicken breast using a sharp knife, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- Stuff each chicken breast with the filling, pressing gently to secure it inside. Use toothpicks to seal the openings if necessary.
- Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed chicken and sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for added texture.
- Place the stuffed chicken breasts in a greased baking dish and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Serve warm and enjoy your homemade Ruth's Chris Stuffed Chicken!
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.
