Frequently Asked Questions
What is Harvest Root Vegetable Medley?
It is a hearty, nutritious side dish featuring roasted seasonal root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and rutabaga, finished as a ragout with herbs and lemon.
What root vegetables are included in this recipe?
The recipe includes carrots, parsnips, rutabaga, turnip, and Yukon Gold potatoes.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
The oven should be preheated to 425°F (220°C) for roasting the vegetables.
How long do the root vegetables need to roast?
The vegetables should roast for approximately 25 minutes until they are tender and golden.
What size should the vegetables be diced?
The root vegetables should be cut into 1/2-inch dice to ensure even cooking.
How many people does this recipe serve?
This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
The recipe uses chicken stock, but it can easily be made vegetarian by substituting vegetable stock.
What type of oil is recommended for roasting?
Extra virgin olive oil is used to coat the vegetables before roasting.
How much chicken stock is required?
You will need 1/2 cup of chicken stock to create the ragout base.
What kind of onion is used in this medley?
The recipe calls for one small yellow onion, cut into 1/4-inch dice.
What herbs are used for seasoning?
The dish is seasoned with fresh flat leaf parsley and fresh thyme leaves.
Why is lemon zest added at the end?
Lemon zest is added to provide a fresh, bright finish that cuts through the richness of the roasted vegetables.
Do I need to peel the vegetables?
Yes, the instructions specify peeling the carrots, parsnips, rutabaga, turnip, and potato.
Can I use salted butter?
The recipe calls for unsalted butter; if using salted butter, you should adjust the amount of added kosher salt accordingly.
What is the purpose of the chicken stock in this recipe?
The chicken stock is simmered with the vegetables to create a light glaze that coats the medley.
Should I stir the vegetables while they are in the oven?
Yes, stirring occasionally ensures even cooking and prevents the vegetables from sticking or burning.
What type of potato is best for this dish?
Yukon Gold potatoes are recommended for their creamy texture and ability to hold their shape.
How long should I sauté the onion?
The onion should be cooked for about 3 minutes until it becomes tender and translucent.
Is this dish suitable for holiday meals?
Yes, its seasonal flavors and vibrant colors make it an ideal side dish for holiday feasts.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Fresh herbs are preferred for the best flavor, but you can use dried herbs by reducing the quantity to one-third of the fresh amount.
What equipment is needed for roasting?
A large half sheet pan is recommended to spread the vegetables out in a single layer.
How do I know when the ragout is finished simmering?
The ragout is ready when the stock has slightly thickened and properly coats the vegetables, usually after about 3 minutes.
Can I add other root vegetables like sweet potatoes?
Yes, you can customize the medley with other seasonal vegetables like sweet potatoes or beets.
How should the dish be served?
It should be served hot or warm as a side dish alongside a main course.
What does 'divided' mean in the oil measurement?
It means the 2.5 tablespoons of olive oil are used in two separate steps: 2 tablespoons for roasting and 1/2 tablespoon for sautéing the onion.
Is this recipe dairy-free?
No, it contains butter. To make it dairy-free, you can substitute the butter with more olive oil or a plant-based alternative.
What does the term 'ragout' refer to in this recipe?
In this context, it refers to the technique of simmering the roasted vegetables in a seasoned stock to create a cohesive, saucy dish.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can roast the vegetables in advance and perform the final sauté and simmering steps just before serving.
How should I store leftovers?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Is this recipe considered a healthy option?
Yes, it is packed with fiber and nutrients from a variety of fresh root vegetables and uses healthy fats like olive oil.