Thanksgiving Roasted Veggies: Easy, Flavorful, and Perfect for the Holidays

Name: Thanksgiving Roasted Veggies
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 oz green beans; 12 oz butternut squash, peeled and cubed; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste; 6 slices bacon, cooked and chopped; ½ cup pumpkin seeds, toasted

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Thanksgiving is all about delicious food that brings family and friends together, and nothing adds more color and flavor to the table than a dish of Thanksgiving roasted veggies. This recipe brings together two classic fall vegetables—green beans and butternut squash—along with the savory crunch of bacon and pumpkin seeds. Simple, easy to prepare, and full of vibrant flavors, this Thanksgiving roasted veggie dish is sure to become a family favorite for your holiday celebrations.

Why Thanksgiving Roasted Veggies Are a Perfect Holiday Side Dish

Thanksgiving roasted veggies are a standout side dish, offering a mix of sweet and savory flavors that pair wonderfully with traditional holiday mains. The green beans provide a crunchy texture while the butternut squash adds a rich sweetness. The bacon gives the dish a smoky, savory element, and the pumpkin seeds add an extra layer of crunch. Whether you’re serving turkey, ham, or prime rib, these roasted vegetables make for a colorful, delicious accompaniment that is gluten-free and dairy-free, making them suitable for a variety of dietary preferences.

Ingredients for Thanksgiving Roasted Veggies

To make the perfect Thanksgiving roasted veggies, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Green Beans: These beans offer a slight crunch and a fresh, earthy flavor. Roasting enhances their natural sweetness without losing texture.
• Butternut Squash: With its orange flesh, butternut squash adds sweetness and richness to the dish, making it a quintessential autumn vegetable.
• Olive Oil: Olive oil helps to crisp the vegetables while roasting, adding a subtle richness to the flavor.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning, salt and pepper elevate the natural flavors of the veggies.
• Bacon: Bacon adds a smoky and savory note that balances the sweetness of the squash and the freshness of the green beans.
• Pumpkin Seeds: These seeds, toasted to perfection, contribute a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to the dish.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions for Thanksgiving Roasted Veggies

If you’re looking for variations or substitutions for this Thanksgiving roasted veggies recipe, here are a few ideas:

• Nuts: If you don’t have pumpkin seeds, try using toasted pecans, walnuts, or sliced almonds.
• Bacon Alternatives: For a lighter option, you can swap regular bacon with turkey bacon, prosciutto, or even omit it entirely for a vegetarian version.
• Squash Alternatives: If butternut squash isn’t available, try sweet potatoes for a similar texture and flavor profile.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Thanksgiving Roasted Veggies

Follow these easy steps to make your Thanksgiving roasted veggies:

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Prepare two rimmed baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
In a large bowl, toss the green beans with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste. Spread the beans in a single layer on one of the prepared baking sheets.
In the same bowl, toss the cubed butternut squash with another tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread the squash on the second baking sheet in a single layer.
Roast the vegetables for 15 minutes. Keep the green beans in the oven until they start to get golden-brown spots. Once they’re ready, remove them from the oven.
Lower the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C). Flip the butternut squash cubes and continue roasting them for an additional 5 to 10 minutes until they’re tender and slightly caramelized.
Combine the roasted green beans and butternut squash in a large bowl. Add the chopped, cooked bacon and toasted pumpkin seeds to the veggies and toss everything together.

Tips & Tricks for Perfect Thanksgiving Roasted Veggies

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your Thanksgiving roasted veggies turn out perfect every time:

• Avoid Overcrowding: To ensure the vegetables roast evenly, spread them out in a single layer. If you need to double the recipe, roast the vegetables in batches.
• Use Parchment Paper: Lining your baking sheets with parchment paper makes cleanup a breeze and prevents the veggies from sticking.
• Watch the Bacon: If you’re cooking bacon in the oven, check it every 10 minutes to ensure it doesn’t burn. Drain it well on paper towels to remove excess grease before chopping it.

Pairing Ideas and Variations for Thanksgiving Roasted Veggies

These Thanksgiving roasted veggies are versatile and can be paired with a variety of main dishes. Here are some ideas for additional sides or variations to enhance your holiday meal:

• Serve with Gravy: A drizzle of turkey gravy can elevate the roasted veggies, adding a comforting layer of flavor.
• Add a Touch of Sweetness: If you want to introduce a sweet element, add dried cranberries or figs to the dish for a festive touch.
• Vegan Version: For a completely plant-based dish, leave out the bacon and substitute with extra roasted nuts or seeds for added crunch.

Can You Make Thanksgiving Roasted Veggies Ahead?

Yes, Thanksgiving roasted veggies are perfect for meal prep and can be made ahead of time. Here’s how:

• Roast the Veggies: Roast the green beans and butternut squash a day or two in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge.
• Prepare the Bacon and Seeds: Cook the bacon and toast the pumpkin seeds in advance. Store them separately to keep the bacon crisp and the seeds crunchy.
• Reheat Before Serving: When ready to serve, reheat the veggies in the oven or microwave and then top with bacon and pumpkin seeds.

Storage and Reheating Thanksgiving Roasted Veggies

Leftover Thanksgiving roasted veggies can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For the best texture, reheat them in the oven on a parchment-lined sheet pan at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes. Add the toasted pumpkin seeds just before serving to maintain their crunch.

Other Holiday Roasted Vegetable Ideas

If you love Thanksgiving roasted veggies, try these other vibrant holiday sides:

• Roasted Butternut Squash and Brussels Sprouts with Pecans and Cranberries: A colorful and festive alternative that combines two seasonal favorites.
• Christmas Brussels Sprouts with Bacon: A savory and crispy side that’s perfect for any holiday meal.
• Roasted Sweet Potatoes and Broccoli: A sweet and savory combination that pairs beautifully with turkey or ham.

Thanksgiving roasted veggies are an easy, colorful, and tasty side dish that will complement any holiday meal. Whether served hot, warm, or at room temperature, they add a beautiful touch to your festive table. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the delicious flavors of the season!

Conclusion

Thanksgiving roasted veggies are a standout side dish that will impress your guests with their vibrant colors, delightful textures, and balance of sweet and savory flavors. Featuring the seasonal favorites of green beans and butternut squash, combined with the smoky richness of bacon and the crunch of pumpkin seeds, this dish is sure to be a hit at your holiday table. It’s easy to prepare, gluten-free, and dairy-free, making it a versatile option for all guests. Whether you’re preparing for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any holiday meal, this recipe is a wonderful way to celebrate the flavors of fall.

Try this Thanksgiving roasted veggie dish and let its simplicity and deliciousness shine through. You’ll find that it quickly becomes a go-to side dish for every special occasion!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make Thanksgiving roasted veggies ahead of time?

Yes, you can absolutely make Thanksgiving roasted veggies ahead of time! Roast the green beans and butternut squash a day or two before serving. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge. The bacon and pumpkin seeds should be prepared separately and added just before serving to maintain their freshness and crunch. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the veggies in the oven or microwave, and top with the bacon and seeds.

2. Can I use a different vegetable instead of butternut squash?

Yes, you can substitute butternut squash with other seasonal vegetables. Sweet potatoes work wonderfully as a replacement, offering a similar texture and sweetness. If you prefer something with a different flavor profile, you can try Brussels sprouts, carrots, or even cauliflower. Just be sure to adjust the roasting time depending on the vegetable you choose.

3. How can I make this dish vegan?

To make this dish vegan, simply omit the bacon and replace it with extra roasted nuts or seeds. You could also use vegan bacon or crispy tofu for a similar savory element. The rest of the recipe remains the same, ensuring the roasted veggies stay flavorful and hearty, even without the meat.

More Relevant Recipes

Roasted Butternut Squash Salad Recipe: This roasted butternut squash salad brings a delightful balance of roasted sweetness and crisp vegetables, making it a perfect complement to your Thanksgiving roasted veggies. The combination of roasted squash and greens creates a vibrant and healthy side dish that pairs wonderfully with turkey or ham.
Fall Harvest Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette: This fall-inspired salad features seasonal vegetables like roasted squash and a tangy apple cider vinaigrette, making it a great choice to serve alongside roasted veggies. The sweet and savory flavors, along with a crunchy texture, offer a fresh and vibrant dish for any holiday meal.
Sausage Veggies Pasta Autumn Dinner: For a hearty autumn meal, this sausage and veggie pasta combines roasted seasonal vegetables like butternut squash and green beans with savory sausage, creating a comforting and filling dish. It’s a great way to use similar ingredients from the Thanksgiving roasted veggies recipe in a warm, satisfying dinner.