Grill-Roasted Vegetables with Pine Nut Pesto

• HEALTHY
• VEGETARIAN

Ingredients

1. 1 pound carrots, cut into 1-inch pieces
2. 1 pound parsnips, cut into 1-inch pieces
3. 1 pound brussels sprouts, halved lengthwise
4. One 2 1/2-pound butternut squash—peeled, seeded and cut into 1/2-by-1 1/2-inch pieces
5. 2 large shallots, cut into 1/2-inch wedges
6. 6 thyme sprigs
7. 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
8. Salt and freshly ground pepper
9. 1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons pine nuts
10. 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
11. 1 large garlic clove, thinly sliced
12. 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese

1. In a large bowl, toss the carrots and parsnip pieces with the brussels sprouts, butternut squash, shallots, thyme sprigs and 1/4 cup of the olive oil. Season generously with salt and pepper.
2. Preheat a gas grill to high heat (about 425°). Place 2 perforated grill pans directly on the grate to heat for about 10 minutes. Divide the vegetables between the grill pans and grill over high heat, stirring and turning occasionally, until they are tender and lightly charred in spots, about 50 minutes. Alternatively, roast the vegetables in a large roasting pan in a 425° oven, stirring them occasionally.
3. Meanwhile, in a small skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of the olive oil. Add the pine nuts and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until they are lightly browned, about 2 minutes. Add the butter and garlic and cook, stirring, until the pine nuts are browned and the garlic is golden, about 2 minutes. Let cool, then transfer to a mini processor. Add the grated cheese and the remaining 3 tablespoons of olive oil and pulse to a chunky puree. Season the pine nut pesto with salt.
4. Transfer the vegetables to a large bowl and toss with the pine nut pesto. Serve hot or warm.