Roasted Sweet Potatoes and Brussel Sprouts

I have always had trouble tolerating Brussels sprouts because of a sensitive stomach. My experience was, however, largely limited to frozen Brussels sprouts that were steamed or warmed in the microwave. Last Christmas, my niece made roasted Brussels sprouts and they were so much tastier, plus I tolerated them quite well. I'm not sure why that is, but since then, this recipe has become a favorite.

Brussels sprouts are among the calciferous vegetables, known for their anti-oxidant and cancer-fighting properties. Add the nutritional benefits of onion, sweet potatoes, garlic, nuts, and cranberries, and this naturally gluten-free dish has great cancer-fighting and preventing properties. This recipe makes a delicious side-dish for the holidays.

Ingredients:

3 -6 cups Brussels sprouts, split lengthwise
olive oil
3 cups sweet potatoes, cubed
salt
garlic powder
1 cup whole pecans
1 cup craisins
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 onion, sliced lengthwise into slivers (optional)

Directions:

Preheat oven to 400 F.  Liberally grease the pan with olive oil.

Split Brussels sprouts in half lengthwise and rub the open side of each piece in olive oil.  The place open side up on roasting pan or baking sheets. Place onto a baking sheet, cut side down up. Sprinkle liberally with garlic powder and salt. Add sliced onions to pan if desired. Sprinkle half of the brown sugar over the Brussels sprouts.


Peel and cube sweet potatoes. Toss in olive oil, then spread out on second baking sheet. Sprinkle craisins over potatoes. Sprinkle liberally with garlic powder and salt. Sprinkle the second half of the brown sugar over the potatoes.

Place the two roasting pans in the oven at the same time 400 F for about 20-25 minutes. Turn over the Brussels sprouts for even browning and sprinkle pecans over them, then roast another 10 minutes. The cut sides should be nicely and partially charred but not blackened. Remove Brussels sprouts from oven, and continue to roast sweet potatoes until they are browned but not blackened.

Remove all pans from oven and mix together in large mixing bowl.