Description
1 medium butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp honey
½ tsp cinnamon
¼ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
½ cup dried cranberries
½ cup pecans, roughly chopped
1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped (optional)
Directions:
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, toss the butternut squash cubes with olive oil, honey, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper.
Spread the seasoned squash evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
Roast for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until tender and caramelized.
Remove from the oven and immediately toss with dried cranberries and chopped pecans.
Garnish with fresh rosemary if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Prep Time: 10 minutes Cooking Time: 30 minutes Total Time: 40 minutes Kcal: 220 per serving Servings: 4 servings
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfectly roasted butternut squash every time.
- Prep the Squash: Carefully peel the squash with a sturdy vegetable peeler. Slice it in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds with a spoon. Cut it into uniform 1-inch cubes to ensure even cooking.
- Season Thoroughly: In your large mixing bowl, whisk the olive oil, honey, cinnamon, salt, and pepper together first to create an emulsion. Then add the squash cubes and toss until every piece is evenly and generously coated.
- Roast for Caramelization: Arrange the squash in a single layer on your parchment-lined sheet, ensuring pieces aren’t touching. This allows for proper roasting instead of steaming. The key is to roast until the edges are deeply golden brown and caramelized.
- Add Texture & Serve: The residual heat from the just-out-of-the-oven squash will perfectly soften the cranberries and lightly toast the pecans when you toss them together. This step preserves the nuts’ crunch.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile dish can be the star or a supporting player on your table.
- As a festive, colorful side dish for holiday roasts like turkey or ham.
- Served over a bed of baby spinach or arugula while still warm to create a delicious salad (add a crumble of goat or feta cheese).
- As a flavorful topping for a hearty grain bowl with quinoa or farro.
- Pureed with a bit of vegetable broth to create a uniquely sweet and savory soup.
How-to Summary
Cube and season butternut squash with a honey-cinnamon oil mixture. Roast at 400°F (200°C) on a single layer for 25-30 minutes until caramelized. Toss the hot squash with dried cranberries and chopped pecans. Garnish with rosemary and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can roast the squash 1 day in advance. Store it covered in the fridge and reheat in the oven or microwave. Add the cranberries and pecans just before serving to maintain texture.
What can I use instead of honey? Maple syrup is an excellent vegan-friendly substitute that pairs wonderfully with the autumn flavors. Agave nectar will also work.
How do I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the squash.
Can I use other nuts? Absolutely. Walnuts or chopped almonds are great alternatives. For a nut-free version, try toasted pumpkin seeds (pepitas).
My squash isn’t caramelizing. What’s wrong? This usually means the pan is overcrowded, steaming the squash. Use two baking sheets if needed to ensure a single, uncrowded layer. Also, avoid stirring too often; let it sit to develop color.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Uneven Cubes: Cutting squash into different sizes leads to uneven cooking—some pieces will burn while others remain hard.
- Crowding the Pan: Placing cubes too close together causes them to steam instead of roast, preventing caramelization.
- Adding Mix-Ins Too Early: Adding cranberries and pecans before roasting will cause the nuts to burn and the fruit to become tough.
- Underseasoning: Don’t be shy with the salt; it’s crucial for balancing the sweetness of the honey and squash.
Conclusion
This Honey Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries & Pecans is more than just a simple side dish; it’s a celebration of fall flavors and textures. The process is straightforward, but paying attention to the details—like even cubing and proper pan spacing—makes all the difference. It’s a reliably delicious, healthy, and visually stunning recipe that is sure to become a seasonal favorite. Enjoy the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spice in every bite.
