There’s something magical about the aroma of maple roasted butternut squash wafting through your kitchen. Imagine sweet, caramelized squash mingling with tart cranberries and creamy feta cheese, creating a dish that’s as delightful to your taste buds as it is to the eyes. This Maple Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries & Feta is not just a side dish; it’s an experience that can elevate any meal, whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner party or simply enjoying a weeknight treat.
Jump to:
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- FAQs:
- What are the main ingredients in Maple Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries & Feta?
- How do I prepare butternut squash for roasting?
- Can I make Maple Roasted Butternut Squash ahead of time?
- What can I serve with Maple Roasted Butternut Squash?
- Conclusion for Maple Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries & Feta:
- 📖 Recipe Card
Every bite of this dish takes me back to Thanksgiving dinners at my grandma’s house. She would always make a similar recipe, filling the air with warmth and joy. The vibrant colors of orange and red reminded me of autumn leaves dancing in the breeze. Best enjoyed on chilly evenings or festive gatherings, this dish promises an explosion of flavors that will leave everyone at the table asking for seconds—and maybe even thirds!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Preparing this dish is as easy as pie—well, easier!
- The flavor combination makes it an instant crowd-pleaser.
- With its stunning colors, it’s sure to impress any guest.
- It’s versatile enough for weeknight dinners or holiday feasts, fitting seamlessly into any menu.
- Plus, it’s packed with nutrients that make you feel good about indulging!
Ingredients for Maple Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries & Feta
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Butternut Squash: Choose firm, heavy squash with a smooth skin; this will be the star of your dish.
Fresh Cranberries: Opt for bright red cranberries; they add a delightful tartness that balances out the sweetness.
Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta adds creaminess and a salty kick; look for high-quality cheese for the best flavor.
Maple Syrup: Use pure maple syrup for maximum flavor; it brings out the sweetness of the squash beautifully.
Olive Oil: A drizzle of quality olive oil helps everything roast perfectly while adding richness.
Salt and Pepper: Basic seasonings that enhance all flavors; don’t skimp on these!
Fresh Sage (optional): Adds an earthy aroma; if you have it on hand, toss some in for extra flavor!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Maple Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries & Feta
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). As it warms up, you can get started on chopping your butternut squash—your future self will thank you for not procrastinating.
Step 2: Prepare the Butternut Squash
Peel and cube the butternut squash into bite-sized pieces. The smaller they are, the quicker they cook! Toss them into a large bowl.
Step 3: Add Other Ingredients
Drizzle olive oil over the cubed squash and sprinkle generously with salt and pepper. Add in fresh cranberries and sage if you’re feeling fancy. Finally, pour in maple syrup—this is where the magic happens!
Step 4: Roast Away
Spread everything evenly on a lined baking sheet. Pop it into your preheated oven and roast for about 25-30 minutes until tender and caramelized. Set a timer so you don’t get distracted by cat videos—it happens!
Step 5: Add Feta
Once roasted to perfection, take out your baking sheet and sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over your beautiful mix. Pop it back in for another five minutes just to warm everything together—a little cheesy goodness never hurt anyone.
Step 6: Serve It Up
Transfer to a serving platter and watch everyone gather around like moths to a flame. Drizzle any remaining maple syrup over top if you’d like extra sweetness!
This Maple Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries & Feta is not just food; it’s comfort on a plate! Serve hot as a side dish or enjoy it on its own—either way, you’re in for an unforgettable culinary treat!
You Must Know
- This delightful Maple Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries & Feta not only tantalizes your taste buds but also simplifies meal prep.
- Customize the ingredients based on what’s in your pantry.
- Its vibrant colors and aromas will dazzle any dinner table, making it perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven while you chop the butternut squash into bite-sized pieces. Toss the squash with maple syrup and olive oil, then roast until tender. Meanwhile, prepare the cranberries and feta to add just before serving for a delightful finish.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out cranberries for pomegranate seeds for an extra pop of flavor. You can also experiment with different cheeses like goat cheese or add nuts for crunch. A sprinkle of cinnamon could elevate the sweetness even further.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it gently in the microwave or toss it back into a hot pan until heated through without losing its deliciousness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly roasted squash, make sure all pieces are roughly the same size to cook evenly.
- Don’t skip the maple syrup; it enhances the natural sweetness beautifully!
- Finally, adding feta at the end keeps it creamy and fresh.
There was that one Thanksgiving when I brought this dish instead of my usual potato casserole. My family was skeptical at first but ended up fighting over the last spoonful—definitely a memorable moment!
FAQs:
What are the main ingredients in Maple Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries & Feta?
The main ingredients for Maple Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries & Feta include fresh butternut squash, cranberries, and feta cheese. You will also need olive oil, maple syrup, salt, pepper, and optional herbs like thyme or rosemary to enhance the flavor. The combination of sweet maple syrup and tangy feta creates a delicious balance that makes this dish perfect for any occasion.
How do I prepare butternut squash for roasting?
To prepare butternut squash for roasting, first preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut off both ends of the squash and peel it using a vegetable peeler. Halve the squash lengthwise and scoop out the seeds with a spoon. Then cut the squash into evenly sized cubes to ensure even cooking. Toss the cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper before spreading them on a baking sheet for roasting.
Can I make Maple Roasted Butternut Squash ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Maple Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries & Feta ahead of time. Roast the butternut squash and let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat it in the oven or microwave and add the cranberries and feta just before serving to maintain their freshness.
What can I serve with Maple Roasted Butternut Squash?
Maple Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries & Feta pairs well with various dishes. Consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or turkey for a hearty meal. It also complements quinoa or wild rice salads beautifully. For a vegetarian option, serve it with lentils or chickpeas for added protein, making this dish versatile for any dining experience.
Conclusion for Maple Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries & Feta:
Maple Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries & Feta is a delightful dish perfect for any meal. It combines sweet and savory flavors while being easy to prepare. By using fresh ingredients like butternut squash, cranberries, and feta cheese, you create a colorful side dish that everyone will enjoy. Whether served at holiday gatherings or as part of a weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress!
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📖 Recipe Card
Print
Maple Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries & Feta
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Maple Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries & Feta is a vibrant and flavorful dish that beautifully marries the sweetness of caramelized butternut squash with the tartness of fresh cranberries and the creaminess of feta cheese. Ideal for holiday feasts or cozy weeknight dinners, this recipe not only dazzles the eyes but also delights the palate. The combination of textures and flavors will make it a standout at any table, leaving your guests craving more.
Ingredients
- 4 cups butternut squash, cubed (about 1 medium squash)
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 3 tbsp pure maple syrup
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp fresh sage (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Peel and cube the butternut squash into bite-sized pieces.
- In a large bowl, toss the cubed squash with olive oil, salt, pepper, cranberries, and maple syrup until well coated.
- Spread the mixture evenly on a lined baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes until tender and caramelized.
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle feta cheese over the top. Return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes to warm through.
- Serve hot on a platter, drizzling extra maple syrup if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
