Introduction
There’s something magical about fall flavors, and this Caramelized Butternut Squash with Feta, Walnuts, and a delightful Cranberry-Honey Glaze captures that essence perfectly. Imagine tender, golden-brown cubes of roasted butternut squash, their sweetness enhanced by a touch of maple syrup, all brought together with the creamy tang of feta and the crunch of toasted walnuts. This dish is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s a harmonious blend of sweet and savory that makes it a perfect centerpiece for your fall gatherings or family dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash (about 900 g / 2 lb), peeled and cubed
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) olive oil
- 1 tbsp (15 ml) maple syrup or honey
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ½ tsp dried thyme or fresh rosemary (optional)
- ⅓ cup (50 g) crumbled feta cheese
- ¼ cup (30 g) chopped walnuts, toasted
- 2 tbsp (30 g) dried cranberries
For the Cranberry-Honey Glaze:
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) honey
- 1 tbsp (15 ml) balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp (15 g) cranberry sauce or jam
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- In a large bowl, toss the butternut squash cubes with olive oil, maple syrup, salt, pepper, and the dried thyme or fresh rosemary if you’re using it. Make sure each piece is well coated.
- Spread the coated squash evenly on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they have space to roast properly.
- Roast the squash in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until they are golden brown and caramelized, filling your kitchen with a heavenly aroma.
- While the squash is roasting, prepare the cranberry-honey glaze. In a small saucepan, whisk together the honey, balsamic vinegar, and cranberry sauce. Heat over low flame, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens slightly, about 3–4 minutes.
- Once the squash is done, transfer it to a serving dish. Sprinkle the warm cubes with crumbled feta, toasted walnuts, and dried cranberries for a pop of color and flavor.
- Finally, drizzle the warm cranberry-honey glaze over the top and serve immediately, reveling in the sweet and savory blend.
Notes or Tips
- Feel free to swap the feta cheese for goat cheese if you prefer a tangier flavor.
- For an extra crunch, consider adding some pumpkin seeds or pecans along with the walnuts.
- This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Cooking Techniques
Roasting is the key technique here, allowing the natural sugars in the butternut squash to caramelize, creating that irresistible sweetness. Make sure to give the squash enough space on the baking sheet to ensure even cooking. Stirring halfway through helps achieve that beautiful, golden-brown exterior.
FAQ
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
No, while you can prepare the components ahead of time, it is best served fresh to enjoy the vibrant textures and flavors.
What else can I serve with this dish?
This caramelized butternut squash pairs beautifully with roasted meats, grain bowls, or even as a standout side for holiday feasts.
Conclusion
This Caramelized Butternut Squash with Feta, Walnuts, and Cranberry-Honey Glaze is a heartwarming dish that beautifully embodies the spirit of the season. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply looking to elevate your weeknight dinners, this recipe is sure to impress family and friends alike. Enjoy every delicious bite!