Trader Joe’s Harvest Blend has quickly become a favorite for those seeking a nutritious and delicious side dish that’s both convenient and versatile. Packed with a colorful mix of roasted butternut squash, sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, and kale, this blend brings together the best flavors of fall in every bite. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or as a festive addition to holiday meals.
We love how easy it is to elevate this blend into a hearty, flavorful dish with just a few simple ingredients. Whether you’re looking to add protein, spice, or a touch of sweetness, this recipe lets you customize the Harvest Blend to suit your taste. Let’s dive into how to make this wholesome, vibrant side that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients
To create our delicious Trader Joe’s Harvest Blend recipe, we start with the essential components from the blend itself, then add a few wholesome ingredients to elevate the flavors perfectly.
Trader Joe’s Harvest Blend Ingredients
This pre-packaged mix features a vibrant combination of roasted vegetables carefully balanced for both taste and nutrition:
| Ingredient | Description |
|---|---|
| Butternut Squash | Cubed and roasted |
| Sweet Potatoes | Cubed and roasted |
| Brussels Sprouts | Halved and roasted |
| Kale | Fresh and chopped |
These vegetables are lightly seasoned and roasted to bring out natural sweetness and a tender texture, making the blend convenient and flavorful.
Additional Ingredients Needed
To transform this Harvest Blend into a hearty dish, we’ll add these fresh ingredients for extra depth and warmth:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – to enhance roasting and add richness
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – for a savory aromatic touch
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts – for crunch and nuttiness
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon – to complement the sweetness
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper – to season to taste
- Optional: 2 tablespoons dried cranberries – for a pop of tart flavor
These additions will help us create a balanced and festive side dish that works great year-round.
Tools and Equipment
To prepare the Trader Joe’s Harvest Blend recipe efficiently and achieve the best flavor and texture, we need the right Tools and Equipment. Proper tools help us roast the vegetables evenly, mix ingredients thoroughly, and serve the dish beautifully. Here is a list of essential equipment:
- Baking sheet: A sturdy rimmed baking sheet ensures even roasting of the squash, sweet potatoes, and Brussels sprouts without crowding.
- Mixing bowls: Two or more medium-sized mixing bowls help us toss vegetables with olive oil and seasoning separately, and later combine all ingredients.
- Sharp chef’s knife: For precise chopping of kale, mincing garlic, and trimming vegetables.
- Cutting board: Use a stable, non-slip board for safe and efficient cutting.
- Measuring spoons and cups: Accurate measurement of olive oil, spices, and nuts keeps flavor balanced.
- Spatula or wooden spoon: For stirring and mixing the blend without bruising delicate ingredients.
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat: To prevent sticking and facilitate easy cleanup during roasting.
- Serving bowl or platter: A nice bowl or platter presents the final Trader Joe’s Harvest Blend beautifully at the table.
- Oven mitts: Essential for safety when handling hot baking sheets.
Optional but Helpful Equipment
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Food processor | Quickly chops nuts or minces garlic |
| Salad spinner | Thoroughly dries kale after washing |
| Kitchen timer | Ensures precise roasting times |
By gathering these tools before we start, we set ourselves up for a smooth cooking process and a delicious Harvest Blend outcome. Keeping everything organized improves efficiency and helps us focus on flavor and presentation.
Prep
Proper preparation sets the foundation for our Trader Joe’s Harvest Blend to shine. Let’s walk through how to get the main ingredients and extras ready for roasting and mixing.
Preparing the Harvest Blend
We begin by handling the key vegetables with precision to achieve that perfect roasted texture and flavor. Follow these steps closely:
- Butternut Squash & Sweet Potatoes: Peel both thoroughly. Cut into 1-inch cubes to ensure even roasting. Uniform size promotes crisp edges and tender centers.
- Brussels Sprouts: Trim the ends and remove yellow or damaged outer leaves. Slice each sprout in half to expose more surface area for caramelization.
- Kale: Wash leaves thoroughly, then chop into bite-sized pieces about 1-inch wide. Remove tough stems to avoid chewy bits.
Here’s a quick table summarizing the cutting guidelines for consistency:
| Ingredient | Prep Details | Size/Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| Butternut Squash | Peeled and cubed | 1-inch cubes |
| Sweet Potatoes | Peeled and cubed | 1-inch cubes |
| Brussels Sprouts | Trimmed, halved | Halves |
| Kale | Washed, stem removed, chopped | 1-inch wide pieces |
Prepping Additional Ingredients
To boost the flavor profile, we prepare the following extras with care:
- Olive Oil: Measure out 2 to 3 tablespoons to toss the vegetables evenly, ensuring crispiness and richness.
- Garlic: Mince 2 cloves finely. This will infuse the blend with a warm aromatic note.
- Nuts: Chop 1/4 cup of pecans or walnuts roughly to add crunchy texture and nutty depth.
- Ground Cinnamon: Use 1/2 teaspoon to bring subtle warmth and balance the sweetness from the vegetables.
- Seasoning: Combine 1 teaspoon kosher salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper to taste.
- Optional Dried Cranberries: Prepare 1/4 cup for a tangy contrast to finish the dish beautifully.
These prep details will ensure every bite of our Trader Joe’s Harvest Blend bursts with seasonal flavor and texture.
Cooking Instructions
Let us guide you through the precise steps to cook Trader Joe’s Harvest Blend perfectly. We focus on layering flavors while maintaining the natural sweetness and tender texture of this vibrant mix.
Sautéing the Harvest Blend
- Preheat a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the skillet and allow it to warm until shimmering but not smoking.
- Add the prepared cubed butternut squash, sweet potatoes, and halved Brussels sprouts to the skillet.
- Sauté the vegetables, stirring gently and frequently, for 8 to 10 minutes until they develop a golden-brown crust and are just tender.
- Add the chopped kale in the last 2 minutes of sautéing to soften it slightly without losing its vibrant color.
- Carefully season with salt and pepper to taste while stirring.
Adding Seasonings and Enhancements
- Lower the heat to low and add 1 teaspoon of minced garlic to the skillet.
- Stir the garlic into the vegetables for 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
- Sprinkle 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon evenly across the blend to enhance the warm, sweet undertones.
- Incorporate 1/4 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts for a toasty crunch that complements the roasted vegetables.
- Optionally fold in 2 tablespoons of dried cranberries for a balanced tartness that brightens the dish.
- Give everything a final gentle toss to combine flavors thoroughly.
| Step | Time | Specifics |
|---|---|---|
| Sauté cubed vegetables | 8-10 minutes | Medium heat, olive oil |
| Add kale | Last 2 minutes | Wilt but keep color |
| Stir in garlic | 1 minute | Low heat, prevent browning |
| Season with cinnamon and nuts | Immediate | Even distribution, gentle toss |
| Optional dried cranberries | Immediate | Fold gently |
By following these intentional steps, our Trader Joe’s Harvest Blend will come alive with balanced textures, warm spices, and fresh crunch, perfect as a side or even a light main dish.
Serving Suggestions
To enjoy the Trader Joe’s Harvest Blend at its best, we recommend these versatile serving ideas that enhance its natural sweetness and robust texture:
- As a side dish: Serve the blend alongside roasted chicken, grilled turkey, or pan-seared fish. The combination of sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, and kale balances savory proteins perfectly.
- In grain bowls: Layer the Harvest Blend over cooked quinoa, farro, or brown rice. Top with a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a spoonful of tahini for a wholesome, nutrient-dense bowl.
- Tossed in salads: Allow the blend to cool slightly and mix it into spinach or arugula salads with crumbled goat cheese, dried cranberries, and toasted pecans. This adds warmth and texture to fresh greens.
- Stuffed in wraps or pita: Combine the roasted vegetable blend with hummus or avocado spread in whole wheat wraps or pita pockets for a hearty, portable meal.
- As a breakfast boost: Add a scoop of the blend to scrambled eggs or omelets. The sweetness and earthiness complement eggs beautifully.
- Holiday accompaniment: Elevate festive dinners by garnishing the dish with chopped fresh parsley, a sprinkle of sea salt, and a few extra toasted walnuts for crunch.
| Serving Style | Pairings | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Side Dish | Roasted chicken, grilled turkey, fish | Enhances main courses with sweet-savory balance |
| Grain Bowl | Quinoa, farro, brown rice | Add balsamic glaze or tahini for richness |
| Salad Mix-In | Spinach, arugula, goat cheese, cranberries | Provides warmth and textural contrast |
| Wrap/Pita Stuffing | Hummus, avocado | Makes a convenient, nutrient-packed meal |
| Breakfast Addition | Scrambled eggs, omelets | Adds sweetness and earthiness |
| Holiday Plating | Fresh parsley, sea salt, toasted walnuts | Creates festive flair and crunchy texture |
By using these serving suggestions we transform the Trader Joe’s Harvest Blend into a dynamic dish that fits any meal or occasion with ease and flavor.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
To maximize convenience and maintain the vibrant flavors of Trader Joe’s Harvest Blend, mastering make-ahead and storage techniques is essential. Here is how we keep this hearty dish fresh and ready whenever we want it.
Preparing Ahead
- Roast vegetables in advance: We recommend roasting the butternut squash, sweet potatoes, and Brussels sprouts up to 2 days before serving. Store them cooled in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Chop kale fresh: Keep kale separate and add just before reheating to maintain its bright color and crisp texture.
- Toast nuts separately: Pecans or walnuts should be toasted and stored in a dry airtight jar to keep their crunch.
- Mix spices and seasoning: Combine your garlic, cinnamon, and seasoning mix ahead in a small bowl for easy, quick seasoning during reheating.
Storing Leftovers
Proper storage preserves the taste and texture of the Harvest Blend. Follow these guidelines:
| Item | Storage Method | Refrigeration Time | Freezing Option |
|---|---|---|---|
| Roasted squash & potatoes | Airtight container | Up to 4 days | Freeze up to 2 months, thaw overnight |
| Brussels sprouts | Airtight container | Up to 4 days | Freeze up to 2 months, thaw slowly |
| Fresh kale | Separate airtight bag/container | Up to 3 days | Not recommended due to texture loss |
| Toasted nuts | Airtight, dry container | Up to 2 weeks | Freeze for up to 3 months |
| Whole prepared dish | Airtight container | Up to 3 days | Freeze up to 2 months |
Reheating Instructions
- Use a medium-hot skillet with a splash of olive oil to gently reheat the roasted vegetables.
- Add kale last and toss for 1–2 minutes just until it wilts, preserving its bright green color.
- Sprinkle reserved nuts and optional dried cranberries during the last 30 seconds to retain texture.
- Avoid microwaving to prevent soggy results; stovetop reheating maintains the crisp edges and caramelized flavors.
Helpful Pro Tips
- “Batch cooking the base vegetables lets us enjoy quick, flavorful meals all week.”
- Keep nuts and dried cranberries separate until serving to maintain their crunch and chewiness.
- Label containers with dates so we always use the freshest portions first.
By incorporating these make-ahead and storage tips, our Trader Joe’s Harvest Blend recipe remains an effortless flavorful addition to any meal whether it’s a busy weekday or a special occasion.
Conclusion
Trader Joe’s Harvest Blend offers a delicious way to enjoy seasonal vegetables with minimal effort. Its flexibility lets us tailor the dish to fit any meal or occasion, making it a reliable go-to in our kitchen.
With simple preparation and thoughtful additions, this blend transforms into a flavorful, nutrient-packed side or main component. Keeping it on hand means we’re always ready to whip up something wholesome and satisfying without the fuss.
Embracing the Harvest Blend means embracing convenience without sacrificing taste or quality—perfect for busy days and festive gatherings alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Trader Joe’s Harvest Blend?
Trader Joe’s Harvest Blend is a mix of roasted butternut squash, sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, and fresh kale. It’s a nutritious and versatile side dish known for its natural sweetness and tender texture.
How do I prepare Trader Joe’s Harvest Blend?
To prepare, roast the cubed squash, sweet potatoes, and Brussels sprouts with light seasoning. Add fresh chopped kale towards the end or when reheating to keep it fresh and tender.
Can I customize the Harvest Blend?
Yes, you can enhance the flavor by adding olive oil, minced garlic, chopped pecans or walnuts, ground cinnamon, and optionally dried cranberries for a tart contrast.
What tools do I need to cook the Harvest Blend?
Essential tools include a baking sheet, mixing bowls, a sharp chef’s knife, and measuring spoons. Optional tools like a food processor and salad spinner can help with prep.
How should I cook the Harvest Blend on the stove?
Preheat a skillet with olive oil, then sauté the roasted vegetables until they develop a golden-brown crust. Add garlic, nuts, cinnamon, and optional cranberries to layer flavors.
What are some serving ideas for the Harvest Blend?
Serve it as a side with roasted chicken or turkey, add to grain bowls, toss into salads, stuff in wraps or pita, or mix with scrambled eggs for breakfast.
Can I make the Harvest Blend ahead of time?
Yes, roast the vegetables in advance and store them in airtight containers. Keep kale fresh separately to add later during reheating.
How do I store leftovers?
Refrigerate leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze roasted vegetables but keep kale fresh to preserve texture.
What’s the best way to reheat the Harvest Blend?
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to maintain the vegetables’ texture and flavor. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.
Is the Harvest Blend suitable for holiday meals?
Definitely. Its balanced sweetness, seasonal flavors, and colorful veggies make it a festive and appealing side dish for any special occasion.