Oh my goodness, if you haven’t tried *Sweet & Savory Roasted Butternut Squash*, you’re in for a real treat! I can’t tell you how much I adore this dish. It’s like a warm hug on a chilly day, bursting with flavor that just dances on your taste buds. The way the natural sweetness of the squash marries with the warm spices is simply magical. I often whip this up as a side dish for dinner, and it never fails to impress. Plus, it’s super easy to make! Just imagine the golden-brown, caramelized edges and that heavenly aroma wafting through your kitchen. Trust me, this recipe is about to become your go-to for cozy gatherings or just a delightful weeknight meal.
Ingredients List
Gather these simple ingredients to create your *Sweet & Savory Roasted Butternut Squash*. You’ll need:
- 1 medium butternut squash: Make sure it’s nice and firm; this will be the star of the show!
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: This is what gives the squash that lovely, rich flavor and helps it caramelize perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup: Just the right amount of sweetness to complement the squash.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all those yummy flavors, so don’t skip it!
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: A little kick to balance the sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon: Adds warmth and coziness to the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg: Just a pinch for that aromatic touch that rounds it all out.
How to Prepare Sweet & Savory Roasted Butternut Squash
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, let’s get that oven preheating! Set it to 400°F (200°C). Preheating is super important because it helps the squash roast evenly and develop those gorgeous caramelized edges. You want that perfect balance of tenderness inside and a bit of crispiness on the outside, so don’t skip this step!
Step 2: Prepare the Squash
Now, let’s tackle the butternut squash! Start by peeling it with a sharp vegetable peeler. It can be a bit tough, so take your time. Once peeled, cut off the ends and slice it in half lengthwise. Scoop out the seeds with a spoon and then dice the flesh into bite-sized cubes. Aim for uniform pieces so they cook evenly. You’ll love the vibrant orange color!
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In a big mixing bowl, toss your diced squash with the olive oil, maple syrup, salt, black pepper, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Use your hands or a spatula to mix it all together until each piece is beautifully coated. This ensures every bite is packed with flavor! The aroma of the spices will have you drooling already!
Step 4: Roast the Squash
Spread the coated squash cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet. This is key for achieving that lovely roasted texture. Pop it in the oven and roast for about 25-30 minutes. Halfway through, give them a good toss to ensure even cooking. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re tender and have those lovely golden-brown edges. Wow!
Step 5: Serve the Dish
Once out of the oven, let the squash cool for just a minute before serving. You’ll want to dig in while it’s still warm! It’s perfect as a side dish alongside your favorite protein or tossed into a salad for some extra flavor. Trust me, your taste buds will be singing!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for a serving of *Sweet & Savory Roasted Butternut Squash* (about 1 cup): approximately 180 calories, 8g of fat, 2g of protein, and 30g of carbohydrates. With 6g of fiber and only a pinch of sugar, it’s a deliciously healthy side dish that won’t weigh you down!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners!
- The combination of sweet and savory flavors is absolutely delightful.
- Versatile enough to be served as a side dish or added to salads.
- Healthy yet satisfying, making it a guilt-free indulgence.
- The warm spices create a cozy aroma that fills your kitchen.
- Great for meal prep—enjoy it all week long!
Tips for Success
To make your *Sweet & Savory Roasted Butternut Squash* absolutely perfect, here are my top tips! First, don’t be shy with the spices—feel free to adjust them to suit your taste. If you love a bit more sweetness, add another drizzle of maple syrup. For a savory twist, try incorporating some garlic powder or even a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat!
Also, remember that every oven is a little different, so keep an eye on your squash as it roasts. And if you have leftovers, toss them into a warming soup or blend them into a creamy puree. They’re so versatile!
Variations on Sweet & Savory Roasted Butternut Squash
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to switch up your *Sweet & Savory Roasted Butternut Squash*! For a spicy kick, try adding some chili powder or smoked paprika to the mix. If you love herbs, fresh rosemary or thyme can add a lovely earthy note. Want to get fancy? Toss in some cranberries or pecans during the last few minutes of roasting for a delightful crunch and burst of flavor. The possibilities are endless, so feel free to get creative!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
If you have any *Sweet & Savory Roasted Butternut Squash* leftovers (which is rare, but hey, it happens!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also pop them in the microwave for a quicker option—just be careful not to overheat, or they might get mushy. Enjoy that delicious flavor all over again!
FAQ Section
Can I use other types of squash? Absolutely! While butternut squash is my favorite for this recipe, you can also try acorn or delicata squash for a different flavor and texture.
How can I make this dish vegan? This recipe is already vegan-friendly! The only ingredient that might concern you is the maple syrup; it’s a perfect natural sweetener!
What can I serve with Sweet & Savory Roasted Butternut Squash? This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, grain bowls, or even as a topping for salads. It’s super versatile!
Can I prep the squash ahead of time? Yes! You can peel and dice the squash a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just toss it with the other ingredients when you’re ready to roast!
Is it possible to freeze leftovers? Certainly! Just store your *Sweet & Savory Roasted Butternut Squash* in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to three months—perfect for a quick meal later!
Print
Sweet & Savory Roasted Butternut Squash: 5 Irresistible Tips
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Sweet & Savory Roasted Butternut Squash is a flavorful side dish that combines sweetness with savory spices.
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the diced butternut squash with olive oil, maple syrup, salt, pepper, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Toss until the squash is evenly coated.
- Spread the squash on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through.
- Remove from the oven when tender and caramelized.
- Serve warm.
Notes
- Adjust spices according to your taste.
- Serve as a side dish or add to salads.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Sweet & Savory Roasted Butternut Squash, roasted squash, side dish, vegetarian recipes