This delightful dish of honey roasted butternut squash with cranberries and feta is a true celebration of flavors and textures. The natural sweetness of the butternut squash shines through, beautifully complemented by the tartness of dried cranberries and the creamy, savory notes of feta cheese. Whether served as a side dish during the holidays or as a standout feature on a weeknight dinner table, this recipe is sure to impress.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will adore this recipe not only for its incredible taste but also for its versatility and the nutrition it brings to your meals. It’s a perfect balance of sweet and savory, making it great for both festive occasions and everyday dining. The addition of cranberries adds a pop of color and a boost of antioxidants, while feta introduces a tangy creaminess that elevates the dish. This combination of ingredients makes it not only delicious but appealing to the eye. Plus, it’s simple to prepare, and most importantly, it will fill your kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma as it bakes to perfection!
Introduction
As the weather cools and autumn sets in, hearty, warming dishes become the star of the culinary stage. Butternut squash, with its sweet and nutty flavor profile, is a quintessential autumn vegetable. This recipe for Honey Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries and Feta artfully combines the natural sweetness of the squash with fragrant spices, honey, tart cranberries, and creamy feta cheese to create a dish that is not just nourishing but also incredibly satisfying. It’s an eye-catching centerpiece on any table and brings a warmth that makes each bite feel like a hug.
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Preparation
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature ensures that the butternut squash roasts evenly and develops a beautifully caramelized exterior while remaining tender on the inside.
Step 2: Prepare the Butternut Squash
In a large mixing bowl, toss the butternut squash cubes with olive oil, honey, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, salt, and black pepper until they are evenly coated. The oil and honey will help in caramelizing the squash, while the spices impart warmth and complexity to the dish.
Step 3: Arrange on Baking Sheet
Spread the squash evenly in a single layer on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet. This will allow for proper airflow and even roasting, crucial for a lovely golden color.
Step 4: Roast the Squash
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 25-30 minutes. Make sure to stir halfway through the cooking time to promote even cooking. The squash is done when it is tender and caramelized, with edges that are slightly browned.
Step 5: Add Cranberries and Feta
Once the squash is roasted, remove the baking sheet from the oven and sprinkle dried cranberries and crumbled feta cheese generously over the top. This step adds a contrast of textures and flavors.
Step 6: Final Roast
Return the baking sheet to the oven and roast for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cranberries are softened and the feta is slightly melted. This will create a beautiful blend of flavors, with the feta becoming creamy and the cranberries juicy.
Step 7: Cool and Garnish
Remove from the oven and let the dish cool for a few minutes. If desired, garnish with freshly chopped parsley to add a burst of color and freshness.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Serve warm as a side dish or a light main course, and enjoy the medley of flavors that create a symphony of sweetness and savoriness on your plate.
Cooking Note
For a more colorful presentation, you can mix in some other roasted vegetables, like red onions or Brussels sprouts. They complement butternut squash beautifully and add an extra layer of nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, such as chicken or turkey, making it a perfect addition to holiday meals. It can also stand alone as a vegetarian main course or served alongside quinoa for a satisfying vegetarian option.
Tips
- Make sure to adjust the amount of honey based on your sweetness preference.
- Feel free to experiment with different fresh herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, for an additional flavor twist.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it great for meal prep.
Preparation Time:
- Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time:
- Time: 30-35 minutes
Total Time:
- Total: 45 minutes
Nutritional Information per Serving:
- Calories: Approximately 180
- Protein: 4g
- Sodium: 200mg
Conclusion
This Honey Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries and Feta is not just a dish; it’s an experience that caters to the senses – sight, smell, and taste. Its combination of flavors makes it a versatile addition to any meal, transitioning seamlessly from the kitchen to the dining table. Whether it’s a festive gathering or a cozy weeknight meal, this dish will surely impress. Try making it today and savor the delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors that it offers!
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of squash in this recipe?
Absolutely! While butternut squash is recommended for its sweetness and texture, you can also use acorn squash or even pumpkin. Just adjust the cooking time as needed based on the type of squash you choose.
2. Is this dish suitable for vegan diets?
Yes, you can make this recipe vegan by replacing the honey with maple syrup or agave nectar and omitting the feta cheese, or using a vegan cheese alternative.
3. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the butternut squash mixture and store it in the fridge before roasting. Just roast it right before serving for the best taste and texture.
4. How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave to enjoy again.
5. What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, like chicken or turkey, as well as with grain salads or alongside other roasted vegetables for a complete meal. Enjoy!
