Description
Roasted Butternut Squash is a comforting, vibrant, and nutritious dish that caramelizes sweet, tender squash into a flavorful delight. This simple recipe enhances natural sweetness and nuttiness with olive oil, fresh rosemary, and a touch of vegetarian Worcestershire sauce, making it perfect as a side dish, snack, or main. Easy to prepare with versatile ingredients, it offers an explosion of flavor and texture that suits any meal occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (natural)
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
Optional Additions
- 2 slices smoked turkey bacon, chopped
- Crushed red pepper flakes or smoked paprika, to taste (for a spicy kick)
- Dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds, for sweet bursts
- Toasted pecans or walnuts, for nutty crunch
- Roasted chickpeas with natural gelling agent, for added protein and texture
Instructions
- Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure the perfect temperature for roasting the butternut squash, which caramelizes the edges while keeping the inside tender and juicy.
- Prepare the Squash: Carefully peel the butternut squash using a vegetable peeler and cut it in half lengthwise. Remove the seeds and chop the flesh into uniform 1-inch cubes to promote even cooking.
- Season and Toss: In a large bowl, drizzle the squash cubes with olive oil (natural). Sprinkle with sea salt, freshly ground black pepper, and chopped fresh rosemary. Add a splash of vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural) for extra depth. Toss gently to coat evenly.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Spread the seasoned squash cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat. If using smoked turkey bacon, scatter the chopped pieces evenly over the squash to roast together.
- Roast Until Golden: Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping halfway through. Look for golden caramelized edges, tender texture, and a fragrant roasted aroma.
- Serve Warm: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy the tender inside with crispy edges either on its own or as part of a meal.
Notes
- Cut squash into evenly sized cubes for uniform cooking and texture.
- Do not overcrowd the baking sheet; leave space between cubes for crispiness.
- Use fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for the best aroma and flavor.
- Adjust roasting time depending on the size of the squash cubes to avoid burning or undercooking.
- Adding smoked turkey bacon enhances flavor with a smoky crunch but is optional.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 260mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: roasted butternut squash, easy side dish, autumn recipe, plant-based, vegetarian, vegan optional, healthy snack
