Winter Nachos with Seasonal Ingredients

Winter is the perfect time to enjoy warm, comforting dishes, and nachos are no exception. This winter nachos recipe features seasonal ingredients like roasted butternut squash and cranberries, giving a festive twist to a classic favorite. Here’s how to create a delicious and cozy batch of winter nachos.

Ingredients:

For the Nachos:

• 1 bag of tortilla chips (about 340 grams) (I prefer the Macros Organic chips in original or bbq flavour)

• 1 cup roasted butternut squash, cubed

• 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed

• 1/2 cup cranberries (fresh or dried)

• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese

• 1/2 red onion, finely chopped

• 1/2 cup fresh pomegranate seeds (optional)

• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

For the Butternut Squash:

• 1 small butternut squash, peeled and cubed

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Cranberry Sauce (if using fresh cranberries):

• 1/2 cup fresh cranberries

• 1/4 cup orange juice

• 1/4 cup water

• 2 tablespoons sugar

For the Toppings:

• Sour cream or Greek yogurt

• Guacamole

• Sliced jalapeños (optional)

• Lime wedges

Instructions:

Step 1: Roast the Butternut Squash

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. In a mixing bowl, toss the butternut squash cubes with olive oil, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper.

3. Spread the squash evenly on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized. Remove from the oven and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Cranberry Sauce (if using fresh cranberries)

1. In a small saucepan, combine fresh cranberries, orange juice, water, and sugar.

2. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook until the cranberries have burst and the sauce has thickened, about 10-15 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Assemble the Nachos

1. Preheat your oven’s broiler on high.

2. Spread a layer of tortilla chips on a large, oven-safe platter or baking sheet.

3. Evenly distribute the roasted butternut squash, black beans, cranberries (or cranberry sauce), and red onion over the chips.

4. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese evenly over the top.

5. Place the platter or baking sheet under the broiler and cook until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 3-5 minutes. Watch closely to avoid burning.

Step 4: Add Final Touches

1. Remove the nachos from the oven and immediately sprinkle crumbled feta cheese, pomegranate seeds (if using), and chopped cilantro over the top.

2. Add dollops of sour cream or Greek yogurt, guacamole, and sliced jalapeños (if using) for extra flavor.

3. Serve with lime wedges on the side for a fresh, zesty kick.

Tips for Perfect Winter Nachos:

• Balance Flavors: The sweetness of the butternut squash and cranberries pairs wonderfully with the savory and tangy flavors of the cheese and beans. Adjust the amount of each ingredient to suit your taste.

• Crispness: To prevent soggy nachos, layer the ingredients evenly and avoid overloading with too many toppings that release moisture.

• Customization: Feel free to customize the recipe by adding other winter vegetables like roasted sweet potatoes or Brussels sprouts, or switching up the cheeses.

Enjoy these winter nachos as a festive appetizer or a cozy main dish during the colder months. The combination of seasonal ingredients and classic nacho elements makes this a delightful and unique dish for any winter gathering!

Share your masterpiece with Brooke and tag us @bewell_withbrooke #BeWell #WinterNachos