This Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries and Pecans is a vibrant, festive side dish that combines sweet and savory flavors. Perfect for holiday meals or cozy fall dinners, this dish brings together caramelized squash, tart cranberries, and crunchy pecans.
INGREDIENTS
- Butternut Squash (1 large or 2 small, cubed): A naturally sweet and slightly nutty vegetable that roasts beautifully to a tender, caramelized finish.
- Butter: Adds richness and helps the seasonings adhere to the squash, enhancing the overall flavor.
- Brown Sugar: Provides a slight sweetness that complements the natural sugars in the squash and helps with caramelization.
- Cinnamon: A warm spice that pairs perfectly with butternut squash, adding depth to the flavor profile.
- Salt and Pepper: Balances the sweetness and brings out the natural flavors of the ingredients.
- Cayenne Pepper (optional): Adds a subtle heat, balancing the sweetness for a more complex flavor.
Topping Ingredients
- Pecans: Toasted pecans add a crunchy, nutty texture that contrasts nicely with the tender squash.
- Dried Cranberries: Provides a touch of tartness, balancing the sweetness of the brown sugar and complementing the roasted squash.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure an even roasting temperature for the squash.
- Step 2: Prepare the Butter Mixture
- In a small bowl, melt the butter. Stir in the brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using) until well combined.
- Step 3: Toss the Squash
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the cubed butternut squash with 3/4 of the melted butter mixture, making sure each piece is well-coated.
- Step 4: Arrange on Baking Sheet
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread the squash in an even layer, ensuring there is enough space between each piece for proper roasting.
- Step 5: Initial Roasting
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 20 minutes. This allows the squash to begin softening and caramelizing.
- Step 6: Prepare Toppings
- In a separate bowl, mix the pecans and cranberries with the remaining butter mixture.
- Step 7: Add Toppings and Finish Roasting
- After 20 minutes, remove the baking sheet from the oven, stir the squash, and scatter the pecan and cranberry mixture on top. Return to the oven and roast for an additional 10 minutes, stirring halfway to prevent over-toasting the pecans.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve this Roasted Butternut Squash dish warm, straight from the oven, as a festive side for holiday meals or a cozy addition to weeknight dinners.
- Garnish with fresh rosemary or thyme if desired for an added layer of flavor and presentation.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until heated through, to maintain its roasted texture.
Helpful Notes
- If using frozen butternut squash, ensure it is thawed and patted dry before roasting to prevent excess moisture.
- For added flavor, consider a sprinkle of maple syrup or honey before the final roasting stage to enhance the caramelization.
- Use parchment paper on the baking sheet to make cleanup easier and prevent sticking.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef Ina Garten recommends roasting vegetables in a single layer to achieve the best caramelization.
- Chef Bobby Flay suggests adding a pinch of cayenne to balance sweet dishes with a touch of heat, enhancing the complexity of flavors.
- Chef Martha Stewart advises stirring halfway through roasting to ensure even cooking and avoid burning delicate ingredients like nuts.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This dish combines sweet, savory, and slightly spicy flavors, perfect for festive occasions or seasonal gatherings.
- It’s easy to prepare, with simple ingredients that create a stunning presentation and rich flavors.
- The combination of textures—tender squash, chewy cranberries, and crunchy pecans—adds depth to every bite.
Variations
- For a nut-free option, substitute pecans with pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds for a similar crunch.
- Use maple syrup in place of brown sugar for a more intense, natural sweetness.
- Add a sprinkle of feta or goat cheese after roasting for a creamy, tangy contrast.