Healthy Spinach Butternut Squash Skillet Recipe for Thanksgiving
Elevate your Thanksgiving menu with this healthy spinach butternut squash skillet recipe. Packed with wholesome ingredients, it's a nutritious addition to your holiday feast.
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Chopping board
- Sharp knife
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring spoons
- Citrus juicer optional
Ingredients
- 1 medium Butternut squash peeled, seeded, and diced
- 5 cups Fresh spinach thoroughly washed
- 1 small Red onion finely chopped
- 3 Garlic cloves minced
- 1 can (15 oz) Chickpeas drained and rinsed
- 1 cup Cherry tomatoes halved
- 2 tablespoon Extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon Smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon Crushed red pepper flakes optional
- 2 tablespoon Fresh lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ½ cup Feta cheese crumbled (optional for serving)
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the red onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent.
- Add the diced butternut squash to the skillet. Sprinkle with ground cumin, smoked paprika, and if desired, the crushed red pepper flakes. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the squash is tender, about 15 minutes.
- Stir in the chickpeas and cherry tomatoes, and cook for another 5 minutes.
- Add the fresh spinach to the skillet in batches. Gently toss and let it wilt for about 2 minutes.
- Drizzle the fresh lemon juice over the skillet and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Give everything a good stir to combine.
- Remove the skillet from heat. If desired, sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Notes
- Butternut squash prep — Peeling and dicing butternut squash can be a bit of a task. I like to microwave the whole squash for about 2 minutes to soften the skin, making it easier to peel and chop.
- Layering flavors — Don't rush the sautéing of onions and garlic. This foundational step is crucial for building a rich flavor base for the entire dish.
- Spinach wilting — Add the spinach last and turn off the heat as soon as it begins to wilt. Overcooking will cause it to lose its vibrant color and nutrients.
Nutrition
Nutrition Facts
Healthy Spinach Butternut Squash Skillet Recipe for Thanksgiving
Amount per Serving
Calories
220
% Daily Value*
Fat
11
g
17
%
Saturated Fat
4
g
25
%
Polyunsaturated Fat
1
g
Monounsaturated Fat
6
g
Cholesterol
17
mg
6
%
Sodium
228
mg
10
%
Potassium
817
mg
23
%
Carbohydrates
28
g
9
%
Fiber
5
g
21
%
Sugar
6
g
7
%
Protein
5
g
10
%
Vitamin A
20323
IU
406
%
Vitamin C
51
mg
62
%
Calcium
202
mg
20
%
Iron
2
mg
11
%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
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