Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries and Feta is the perfect dish that dances on your palate and sings to your senses. Imagine golden, caramelized squash mingling with vibrant cranberries, all topped with tangy feta that crumbles like fairy dust. hearty potato salad The aroma wafts through the kitchen, promising a flavor explosion that will leave you weak at the knees.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- Can I use frozen butternut squash instead?
- How do I make this dish vegan?
- What can I serve with roasted butternut squash?
- 📖 Recipe Card
This dish brings back memories of cozy autumn evenings spent huddled around the table with family and friends, sharing laughter and stories while savoring every bite. Whether it’s Thanksgiving or a casual weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress and warm hearts. Get ready for an unforgettable experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
[info_box title=”Why You’ll Love This Recipe”] This roasted butternut squash recipe is not only easy to prepare but also packs a punch in flavor. You can customize it easily based on seasonal ingredients or personal preferences. The vibrant colors make it visually stunning for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday feast or a simple gathering. It’s versatile enough to serve as a side dish or even a light main course. [/info_box]
Sharing this dish at our last family gathering drew gasps of delight from my cousins, who knew vegetables could be so magical?
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Butternut Squash: Look for firm squash with smooth skin; it should feel heavy for its size.
- Cranberries: Fresh cranberries are ideal, but dried ones work too; just adjust sweetness accordingly.
- Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta adds a delightful tang; choose high-quality cheese for best flavor. For more inspiration, check out this Mediterranean Mezze Platter recipe.
- Olive Oil: Choose extra virgin olive oil for its rich taste and health benefits.
- Honey: A drizzle of honey enhances sweetness; local honey gives an extra touch of flavor.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to bring out the flavors; don’t skimp on these!
- Fresh Herbs (optional): Fresh rosemary or thyme can add aromatic depth; use sparingly to avoid overpowering.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare the Squash: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise, scoop out the seeds, then cut into cubes about one inch in size.
Toss with Olive Oil: Place the squash cubes in a large bowl. Drizzle them generously with olive oil and sprinkle salt and pepper over everything for seasoning.
Add Cranberries and Honey: Gently fold in fresh cranberries along with a drizzle of honey. This will create a beautiful balance of sweet and savory when roasted. For more inspiration, check out this Honey Peach Cream Cheese Cupcakes recipe.
Roast Until Tender: Spread the mixture evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes until the squash is tender and slightly caramelized.
Add Feta Cheese: Remove the baking sheet from the oven, sprinkle crumbled feta over the top, and return it to roast for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese softens slightly.
Garnish and Serve!: Once done, take it out of the oven and let it cool slightly. Consider adding fresh herbs if desired before serving this colorful creation to your guests or family!
Enjoy this Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries and Feta hot as a side dish or let it cool down for a refreshing salad topping! refreshing feta salad. delicious goat cheese salad.
[info_box title=”You Must Know”] Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries and Feta is a delightful mix of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors. The vibrant colors brighten any table. This dish is not only eye-catching but also packed with nutrients and perfect for any occasion. [/info_box]
Perfecting the Cooking Process
For the best results, roast the butternut squash first until tender, then add cranberries and feta for the last 10 minutes to warm them through without losing texture.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap cranberries for dried cherries or add nuts like walnuts for extra crunch. You can also play with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a unique twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, keeping that delicious texture intact.
[info_box title=”Chef’s Helpful Tips”] Always choose a firm butternut squash that feels heavy for its size; it will taste fresher. Cut evenly sized pieces to ensure uniform cooking. Adding a drizzle of balsamic glaze before serving elevates this dish beautifully. [/info_box]
Roasting butternut squash always reminds me of my grandma’s kitchen during fall. The aroma wafting through her home made it impossible not to smile.
FAQ
Can I use frozen butternut squash instead?
Yes, frozen butternut squash works well; just adjust roasting time accordingly.
How do I make this dish vegan?
Simply omit the feta cheese or substitute it with vegan cheese alternatives.
What can I serve with roasted butternut squash?
This dish pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or a fresh green salad for balance. zesty corn salad.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries and Feta
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries and Feta is a vibrant, flavorful dish that showcases the essence of autumn. With golden, caramelized butternut squash paired with tart cranberries and creamy feta cheese, each bite is a delightful balance of sweet and savory. Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also an eye-catching centerpiece for your table. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this colorful culinary creation that will leave them craving more!
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
- 1 cup fresh cranberries (or ½ cup dried cranberries)
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (optional, e.g., rosemary or thyme)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, toss cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Gently fold in cranberries and honey until well combined.
- Spread the mixture on a parchment-lined baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes until tender.
- Remove from the oven, sprinkle with feta cheese, and return to roast for an additional 5-10 minutes until slightly softened.
- Garnish with fresh herbs if desired before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 15mg