Description
This Sweet and Savory Honey Roasted Butternut Squash recipe combines the natural sweetness of butternut squash with the tartness of dried cranberries, the crunch of pecans, and the creaminess of feta cheese. Roasted to perfection with a hint of cinnamon and garnished with fresh thyme, it’s a delicious and elegant side dish perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables and Fruits
- 1 medium butternut squash (~3 lbs), peeled, seeded, and chopped
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, for garnish
Oils and Sweeteners
- 2 tablespoons coconut or olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
Nuts and Cheese
- 1/2 cup raw pecans
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
Spices and Seasoning
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- Sea salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for roasting the squash.
- Prepare Butternut Squash: Peel, seed, and chop the butternut squash into evenly sized cubes to ensure even cooking.
- Toss Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the chopped butternut squash, minced garlic, coconut or olive oil, honey, cinnamon, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Toss well to coat everything evenly.
- Add Pecans and Cranberries: Mix in the raw pecans and dried cranberries with the squash mixture gently to spread them throughout.
- Roast: Spread the mixture out on a large baking sheet in a single layer. Roast in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the squash is tender and golden brown, and the pecans are toasted.
- Add Feta and Thyme: Remove the roasted squash from the oven and transfer to a serving dish. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese on top and garnish with fresh thyme leaves for a burst of flavor and color.
- Serve: Serve warm as a delicious side dish to complement your main course.
Notes
- You can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds if preferred.
- Use olive oil if you want a more traditional flavor, or coconut oil for a subtle sweetness.
- If you want a vegan version, omit the feta cheese or use a plant-based feta alternative.
- The roasting time may vary slightly depending on your oven and the size of the squash cubes.
- This dish pairs beautifully with roasted chicken, pork, or as part of a vegetarian meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American