Roasted Veggie Medley with Maple-Balsamic Glaze

🌿 “A Little Love on the Side” —

✨ A Season for Nourishment and Joy

The holidays remind us that care doesn’t just happen in words — it happens in the kitchen too. Between busy caregiving schedules, family visits, and holiday bustle, it’s easy to lean on quick fixes or heavy comfort foods. But this year, let’s make room at the table for a dish that feeds both the heart and the body.

As caregivers, we know that the meals we prepare are more than nutrition — they’re acts of love. This simple side dish brings color, warmth, and a touch of sweetness without the sugar rush. Even better, it’s diabetic-friendly, heart-healthy, and absolutely delicious!

🥕 Roasted Veggie Medley with Maple-Balsamic Glaze

Serves: 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25–30 minutes

🌽 Ingredients:

• 1 cup Brussels sprouts, halved

• 1 cup butternut squash, cubed

• 1 red bell pepper, diced

• 1 small red onion, sliced

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 tablespoon pure or sugar-free maple syrup

• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

• Pinch of salt (or salt substitute)

• Optional: 2 tablespoons chopped pecans or walnuts for garnish

🍴 Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Toss the veggies with olive oil, garlic powder, pepper, and salt.

3. Spread evenly on the sheet and roast for 20–25 minutes, stirring halfway through.

4. Whisk together the maple syrup and balsamic vinegar; drizzle over the veggies.

5. Roast another 5 minutes until caramelized and fragrant.

6. Top with chopped nuts for extra crunch and omega-3 goodness.

❤️ Diabetic & Heart-Healthy Nutrition Breakdown (per serving)

(Approximate values based on 6 servings)

• Calories: 115

• Total Fat: 5g (mostly from olive oil & nuts — heart-healthy fats)

• Saturated Fat: 0.5g

• Carbohydrates: 16g

• Dietary Fiber: 4g

• Sugars: 5g (natural and low glycemic)

• Protein: 3g

• Sodium: <100mg

• Cholesterol: 0mg

🩵 Low in sodium, cholesterol-free, rich in fiber and antioxidants. A perfect side dish for diabetic-friendly, heart-healthy eating during the holidays.

💖 Faith & Flavor Reflection

Every meal we prepare can be a reminder of God’s goodness — how He nourishes us daily, body and soul. When we serve food that’s good for the heart, we’re also caring for the vessel He gave us.

“So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” – 1 Corinthians 10:31 (KJV)

This dish is more than a side — it’s a small way to bring balance, joy, and gratitude to the season.

🌾 Caregiver’s Tip:

Prepare extra portions and pack them into small containers — perfect for quick reheats after long shifts or to share with an elderly client who could use a taste of holiday cheer.