Thanksgiving Honey-Roasted Butternut Squash: Sweet and Savory Delight
Add a sweet and savory touch to your Thanksgiving table with this honey-roasted butternut squash recipe. Cubes of butternut squash are roasted to perfection with honey, olive oil, and fresh thyme.
Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Large bowl
- Sharp knife
- Measuring spoons
- Tongs or spatula
Ingredients
- 1 medium-sized Butternut squash peeled, seeded, and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil
- 2 tablespoons Honey
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- ½ teaspoon Black pepper
- 2 sprigs Fresh thyme
- 1 tablespoon Maple syrup (optional for added sweetness)
- ¼ teaspoon Cayenne pepper (optional for a hint of heat)
- ¼ cup Crumbled feta cheese (optional for a tangy contrast)
- ¼ cup Pomegranate seeds (optional for a burst of freshness)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will ensure that the butternut squash caramelizes beautifully.
- In a large bowl, combine the butternut squash cubes, olive oil, honey, salt, and black pepper. Toss until the squash is evenly coated in the mixture. The honey will add a touch of sweetness and help with caramelization.
- Spread the coated butternut squash cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet. This will allow them to roast evenly and develop a golden crust.
- Place the fresh thyme sprigs on top of the squash cubes. The thyme will infuse the dish with its aromatic flavor as it roasts.
- Roast the butternut squash in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cubes are tender and caramelized. Be sure to give them a gentle toss halfway through to ensure even browning.
- Once the butternut squash is roasted to perfection, remove it from the oven and discard the thyme sprigs. If desired, you can add any optional ingredients at this point, such as maple syrup, cayenne pepper, crumbled feta cheese, or pomegranate seeds. These additions will elevate the flavors and add a unique twist to the dish.
- Transfer the honey roasted butternut squash to a serving dish and garnish with a few fresh thyme leaves for an extra touch of elegance.
- Serve the dish warm as a side dish or as a delicious addition to salads, grain bowls, or roasted vegetable platters. The versatility of this recipe allows you to get creative with how you incorporate it into your meals.
Notes
- Uniform cubes — When cutting the butternut squash into cubes, aim for uniform sizes. This ensures even cooking and prevents some pieces from becoming overcooked while others remain undercooked.
- Golden caramelization — To achieve a beautiful golden caramelization, resist the temptation to overcrowd the baking sheet. Give the butternut squash cubes enough space to roast and develop a crust.
- Adjust seasonings — Feel free to adjust the seasonings according to your taste preferences. If you prefer a sweeter dish, add a bit more honey or maple syrup. For a spicier kick, increase the amount of black pepper or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Fresh herbs — If you don't have fresh thyme on hand, you can substitute it with dried thyme. However, fresh herbs always add a vibrant flavor and aroma, so they are worth using if available.
- Roasting time — Keep an eye on the butternut squash as it roasts, as cooking times may vary depending on the size and thickness of the cubes. Adjust the roasting time accordingly to achieve your desired level of tenderness and caramelization.
Nutrition
Nutrition Facts
Thanksgiving Honey-Roasted Butternut Squash: Sweet and Savory Delight
Amount per Serving
Calories
146
% Daily Value*
Fat
1
g
2
%
Saturated Fat
0.1
g
1
%
Polyunsaturated Fat
0.2
g
Monounsaturated Fat
0.5
g
Sodium
653
mg
28
%
Potassium
712
mg
20
%
Carbohydrates
36
g
12
%
Fiber
4
g
17
%
Sugar
17
g
19
%
Protein
2
g
4
%
Vitamin A
20024
IU
400
%
Vitamin C
41
mg
50
%
Calcium
103
mg
10
%
Iron
2
mg
11
%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
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