Roasted vegetables are a staple in many households, offering a delicious and nutritious way to enjoy a variety of produce. The recipe for Roasted Vegetables With Walnuts, Basil, and Balsamic Vinaigrette elevates this classic dish with a touch of elegance and flavor. Perfect for any occasion, this dish combines the earthy flavors of roasted vegetables with the nuttiness of walnuts, the freshness of basil, and the tangy sweetness of balsamic vinaigrette. Whether you’re looking for a side dish to complement your main course or a satisfying vegetarian entree, this recipe will surely become a favorite.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 medium eggplant, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 red onion, cut into wedges
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Sauce for Sheet Pan Veggies
- 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
Garnish
- 1/2 cup walnuts, toasted and chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
Instructions
Preparing the Vegetables
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a sheet pan with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Prepare the vegetables: Dice the eggplant, chop the bell peppers, slice the zucchini, and cut the red onion into wedges. Halve the cherry tomatoes.
- Arrange the vegetables: Spread the eggplant, bell peppers, zucchini, and red onion evenly on the prepared sheet pan. Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and toss to coat.
- Roast the vegetables: Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and lightly browned. Add the cherry tomatoes during the last 10 minutes of roasting.
Making the Balsamic Vinaigrette
- Combine the ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, honey, minced garlic, and Dijon mustard. Slowly drizzle in the extra-virgin olive oil while continuing to whisk until the vinaigrette is emulsified.
Assembling the Dish
- Toast the walnuts: While the vegetables are roasting, toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes or until fragrant. Be sure to stir frequently to prevent burning.
- Mix the vegetables and sauce: Once the vegetables are done roasting, transfer them to a large serving bowl. Pour the balsamic vinaigrette over the vegetables and toss to combine.
- Garnish and serve: Top the roasted vegetables with the toasted walnuts and fresh basil. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Tips and Variations
Tips for Roasting Vegetables Like a Pro
- Uniform Size: Cut your vegetables into uniform pieces to ensure even roasting.
- High Heat: Roast vegetables at a high temperature (around 400°F/200°C) for caramelization and flavor.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Spread the vegetables in a single layer without overcrowding to allow proper roasting and prevent steaming.
Variations
- Add Protein: For a heartier dish, add chickpeas or cubed tofu to the vegetables before roasting.
- Different Nuts: Substitute walnuts with pecans or almonds for a different flavor and texture.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different fresh herbs such as parsley, cilantro, or mint in place of basil.
- Vinaigrette Twist: Add a splash of lemon juice or zest to the balsamic vinaigrette for extra zing.
Substitutions
- Vegetables: Feel free to use any seasonal vegetables you have on hand, such as carrots, Brussels sprouts, or mushrooms.
- Honey: Substitute maple syrup or agave nectar for honey to make the vinaigrette vegan-friendly.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 240
- Total Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 17g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 9g
- Protein: 3g
Roasted Vegetables With Walnuts, Basil, and Balsamic Vinaigrette is a simple yet sophisticated dish that celebrates the natural flavors of fresh produce. The combination of roasted vegetables, crunchy walnuts, and a flavorful vinaigrette creates a symphony of taste and texture that will delight your palate. This recipe is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite ingredients and flavors. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your experience in the comments below.