Description
Crispy honey-roasted butternut squash elevates autumn’s comfort with sweet, savory notes of cranberries, tangy feta, and crunchy pumpkin seeds. Wholesome ingredients dance together, creating a delightful side dish you’ll crave all season long.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 medium butternut squash
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup feta cheese
- 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds
Seasoning and Spices:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
Optional Garnish:
- 2 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F, ensuring a hot environment for optimal caramelization and crispy texture of the butternut squash.
- Slice the butternut squash into uniform, bite-sized cubes, maintaining consistent thickness to promote even roasting.
- Drizzle olive oil over the squash cubes, then generously coat with salt, black pepper, and ground cinnamon, massaging the seasonings to ensure complete coverage.
- Spread the seasoned squash pieces on a large baking sheet, arranging them in a single layer without overcrowding to guarantee maximum crispiness.
- Roast the squash for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through to achieve a golden-brown exterior and tender interior.
- While the squash roasts, warm the honey to create a smooth, pourable consistency that will enhance caramelization.
- Remove the squash from the oven and immediately drizzle with warm honey, creating a glossy, sweet glaze that will cling to each piece.
- Sprinkle dried cranberries and pumpkin seeds over the honey-glazed squash, adding texture and bursts of sweet-nutty flavor.
- Crumble feta cheese generously across the roasted squash, allowing the warm vegetables to slightly melt the cheese.
- Finish the dish by garnishing with fresh thyme leaves and lemon zest, which will introduce bright, aromatic notes to the rich, sweet squash.
- Serve immediately while the squash remains warm and crispy, ensuring maximum flavor and textural enjoyment.
Notes
- Slice squash uniformly to guarantee each piece roasts evenly and develops consistent caramelization.
- Use parchment paper on the baking sheet to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier while maintaining crispy edges.
- Adjust honey drizzling based on dietary preferences: substitute maple syrup for vegan version or reduce amount for lower-sugar option.
- Toast pumpkin seeds separately for extra nutty flavor and crunchier texture, especially if they might soften during roasting.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 30 g
- Sodium: 380 mg
- Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 50 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg