Roasted Butternut Squash
45 min
|
easy
|
lactose-free,
low-FODMAP,
Mediterranean diet,
paleo-friendly,
vegan
Recipe by Eunice
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time |
|---|---|---|
| 15 min | 30 min | 45 min |
Introduction
This roasted butternut squash comes out caramelized on the edges, tender in the center, and full of cozy fall flavor.
A touch of vegetable bouillon, thyme, and olive oil makes every bite savory, slightly sweet, and totally addictive.
Serve it as an easy weeknight side dish, a holiday table favorite, or toss the cubes into salads and grain bowls.
Ingredients (4 servings)
Ingredients:
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How to Make Roasted Butternut Squash
-
Prep the oven and pan
Preheat your oven to 400°F.
Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.
-
Prepare the squash
Peel the butternut squash if needed, then cut it in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
Cut the squash into 1-inch cubes, trying to keep the pieces roughly the same size for even cooking.
-
Season the squash
Place the squash cubes in a large mixing bowl.
Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle on the vegetable bouillon powder, salt, pepper, and dried thyme.
Toss until every piece is well coated and the bouillon powder is evenly distributed.
-
Arrange on the pan
Spread the seasoned squash in a single layer on the prepared sheet pan.
Make sure the cubes have a little space between them so they roast instead of steam.
-
Roast the squash
Roast for 25 to 30 minutes, turning the cubes once halfway through cooking.
The squash is done when the edges are caramelized and the centers are very tender when pierced.
-
Serve
Taste and adjust the seasoning with a little extra salt or pepper if needed.
Serve hot as a side dish, or cool slightly and add to salads, bowls, or grain dishes.
Substitutions
- Olive oil -> melted butter or ghee
- For a richer, more indulgent flavor, replace the olive oil with melted butter or ghee. The squash will brown a little deeper and taste slightly nutty, but it will no longer be vegan.
- Vegetable bouillon powder -> grated Parmesan and extra salt
- Skip the bouillon powder and sprinkle the cubes with finely grated Parmesan cheese plus a pinch of extra salt. This gives a savory, cheesy crust and a slightly crisp texture on some edges.
- Dried thyme -> dried rosemary or Italian seasoning
- Use dried rosemary or Italian seasoning instead of thyme if that is what you have on hand. The flavor will shift a bit, but it still tastes cozy and herbal with roasted squash.
Tips
- Cut evenly for even roasting
- Try to keep the squash cubes close in size so they cook through at the same time and caramelize evenly.
- Do not crowd the pan
- If the pan is packed, the squash will steam and turn soft without getting those nice browned edges.
- Boost browning with convection
- If your oven has a convection setting, use it and check a little early, since the squash can brown faster.
- Make it ahead
- Roast the squash a day in advance, then reheat on a hot sheet pan to bring back some crisp edges.
Nutrition Facts *
| Energy | 169 | kcal |
|---|---|---|
| Protein | 4 | g |
| Total Fat | 7 | g |
| Carbohydrates | 27 | g |
| Dietary Fiber | 7 | g |
* Approximate, per serving.
Data source: USDA FoodData Central.
FAQ
- How do I peel butternut squash safely?
- Cut a thin slice off the top and bottom so the squash stands flat on the board. Use a sharp Y-peeler to remove the skin, then halve and scoop out the seeds carefully. Work slowly and keep your non-dominant hand well away from the blade.
- My squash is still firm after 30 minutes, what should I do?
- If the cubes are still firm, keep roasting in 5 to 10 minute bursts until they pierce easily with a fork. Larger pieces simply need more time, and some ovens run a little cooler than the dial shows.
- Can I use frozen butternut squash?
- Yes, you can roast frozen squash, but it will be softer and less caramelized. Spread the frozen cubes on the pan, toss with oil and seasonings, and add a few extra minutes of roasting time.
- How should I store leftovers and reheat them?
- Cool the roasted squash, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat on a hot sheet pan in a 400°F oven until warmed through, or use a skillet for quicker browning.
Serving Suggestions
Roasted butternut squash like this is lovely with roast chicken, grilled sausages, or a simple pot of lentils.
For a special twist, finish the hot squash with a squeeze of lemon, toasted nuts, or a drizzle of maple syrup.
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