Honey Roasted Butternut Squash is a delightful side dish that brings the perfect balance of sweetness and savory flavors, making it an ideal addition to fall meals or holiday gatherings. With its caramelized honey glaze and a hint of cinnamon, this simple yet flavorful dish will elevate any meal.
Ingredients:
1 large butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cut into 1-inch cubes
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons honey
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions:
Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
Prepare the Squash:
In a large bowl, toss the butternut squash cubes with olive oil, honey, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Make sure the squash is evenly coated with the sweet and savory mixture.
Roast the Squash:
Spread the seasoned squash cubes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the squash is tender and caramelized. Be sure to stir the squash halfway through the cooking time for even roasting and to enhance the golden-brown color.
Serve and Garnish:
Once the squash is done, transfer it to a serving dish and sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Serving Tips:
Pairing with Main Dishes:
Honey Roasted Butternut Squash is a versatile side dish that pairs beautifully with roasted meats such as turkey, chicken, or pork. It also complements vegetarian dishes like quinoa or lentil salads, making it a perfect option for both meat-eaters and vegetarians alike.
Add More Toppings:
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese, goat cheese, or toasted walnuts on top before serving. These additions provide a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the squash.
Serving Temperature:
This dish is best served warm, right out of the oven. However, it can also be enjoyed at room temperature or slightly reheated if needed. Just be sure to garnish with fresh parsley before serving for that burst of color and freshness.
Storage Tips:
Refrigeration:
Leftover Honey Roasted Butternut Squash can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To keep the squash fresh, be sure it has cooled completely before storing.
Freezing:
While fresh is best, you can freeze Honey Roasted Butternut Squash if you have leftovers. Place the roasted squash on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid (about 1-2 hours). Then, transfer the squash to an airtight container or freezer bag. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use it, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave.
Reheating:
To reheat leftover squash, place it on a baking sheet in a single layer and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings for a quicker option, but roasting it in the oven helps to keep the texture intact.
Related Recipes:
- Roasted Butternut Squash Soup
- Butternut Squash Sweet Potato Soup
- Spicy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup
FAQs:
Can I make Honey Roasted Butternut Squash ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the butternut squash ahead of time by peeling, seeding, and cutting it into cubes. Store the prepared squash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to cook, toss the squash with olive oil, honey, cinnamon, salt, and pepper, then roast as directed. Alternatively, you can roast the squash ahead of time and reheat it before serving.
Can I substitute other vegetables for butternut squash?
Yes, you can substitute other vegetables such as sweet potatoes, acorn squash, or pumpkin. The cooking time may vary depending on the size and type of vegetable you use, so be sure to check for tenderness with a fork. The honey and cinnamon seasoning will still pair wonderfully with these other fall vegetables.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! To make this dish vegan, simply substitute the honey with maple syrup or agave nectar. These alternatives will provide the same sweetness and caramelization as honey, making it a great option for vegan diets.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftover Honey Roasted Butternut Squash can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you’d like to keep it for a longer period, you can freeze it. Place the roasted squash in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer it to a freezer bag or airtight container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Conclusion:
Honey Roasted Butternut Squash is a simple, flavorful side dish that adds warmth and sweetness to your meals. Whether you’re enjoying it as part of a holiday feast or a weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your fall menu. Its easy preparation and comforting flavors make it a perfect complement to a variety of main dishes.
📖 Recipe:
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Honey Roasted Butternut Squash
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Honey Roasted Butternut Squash recipe is the perfect fall side dish with a delightful mix of sweet and savory flavors. Roasted to perfection with honey, cinnamon, and a touch of salt, this squash is caramelized on the outside and tender on the inside. Ideal for holiday meals, Thanksgiving, or cozy fall dinners, this easy recipe brings out the natural sweetness of the squash, making it a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
1 large butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cut into 1-inch cubes
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons honey
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
- Prepare the Squash: In a large bowl, toss the butternut squash cubes with olive oil, honey, cinnamon, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Roast the Squash: Spread the seasoned squash cubes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through for even roasting, until the squash is tender and caramelized.
- Serve: Transfer the roasted squash to a serving dish, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve.
Notes
Substitute: For a vegan version, replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze for up to 3 months.
Optional Add-ins: For extra flavor, add crumbled feta cheese, goat cheese, or toasted nuts on top before serving.
Adjusting Sweetness: You can adjust the sweetness by adding more honey or a pinch of brown sugar.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish, Fall Recipes, Holiday Recipes
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
