Honey roasted squash recipe

This Honey Roasted Butternut Squash recipe is a delightful and aromatic side dish that perfectly captures the essence of fall. The sweetness of the honey, the warmth of the cinnamon, and the tender, caramelized texture of the squash come together to create a dish that is both comforting and elegant. This recipe is a staple for any holiday table, especially Thanksgiving, and is versatile enough to pair well with a variety of main dishes. The honey and cinnamon add a rich, sweet, and savory flavor profile that complements the natural sweetness of the butternut squash, making it a perfect addition to any meal.

Ingredients

• Butternut Squash (1 large, peeled, seeds removed, and cubed)
• Olive Oil (2 tablespoons)
• Honey (3 tablespoons)
• Cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon)
• Salt and Pepper (to taste)
• Optional Garnish: Chopped Sugar Pecans (1/4 cup)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Prepare the Squash: Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds and pulp using a spoon. Peel the skin and white layer beneath the skin of the squash using a vegetable peeler.
3. Brush with Olive Oil: Brush the two halves of the squash with olive oil on both sides and season with salt and pepper.
4. First Roasting: Place the butternut squash, cut side down, on a baking dish and transfer it to the oven. Bake for 30 minutes or until softened.
5. Cool the Squash: Remove the baking dish from the oven and let the squash cool until safe to handle.
6. Make the Honey Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter with the honey and fresh thyme. Whisk until well combined.
7. Slice the Squash Hasselback Style: Place a squash half on a cutting board between two chopsticks or skewers. Slice the squash into ¼ inch slices, but do not slide the knife all the way down, as the chopsticks should prevent this. Repeat with the other squash half.
8. Transfer Sliced Squash: Transfer the sliced squash back to the baking dish.
9. Baste with Honey Sauce and Finish Roasting: Add about ¼ cup of water to the bottom of the baking dish. Brush the squash with the honey mixture, making sure to get it in between the slits as well. Transfer to the oven and bake for about 30 to 40 minutes, basting with the pan juices every 10 minutes. Add more water if needed.
10. Garnish and Serve: Once done, garnish with chopped sugar pecans if desired and serve hot.

Top Tips

1. Choose the Right Squash: Opt for a butternut squash that is heavy for its size and has a deep beige color. This will ensure it is sweet and nutty.
2. Peel Carefully: Use a vegetable peeler to remove the skin and white layer beneath, as this will help the squash cook evenly.
3. Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on the squash during the second roasting phase to avoid overcooking. The squash should be tender but still hold its shape.
4. Baste Regularly: Basting with pan juices every 10 minutes ensures the squash stays moist and caramelized.
5. Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Fresh thyme adds a lovely flavor and aroma to the dish. You can also use other herbs like rosemary or parsley for a different twist.
6. Experiment with Spices: While cinnamon is traditional, you can also try other spices like nutmeg or cardamom for a unique flavor profile.

Variations

1. Spicy Honey Roasted Squash: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the honey sauce for a spicy kick.
2. Maple Syrup Instead of Honey: Use maple syrup for a slightly different sweetness profile.
3. Walnut Pecan Topping: Mix chopped walnuts with sugar pecans for a crunchy topping.
4. Herb Infusion: Infuse the honey sauce with fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley for added depth.
5. Citrus Zest: Add a squeeze of orange or lemon zest to the honey sauce for a bright, citrusy flavor.
6. Glazed Squash: Increase the honey to 4 tablespoons and reduce the water to 1 tablespoon for a thicker glaze.

Nutritional Guide

Additional Nutritional Notes: This recipe is relatively low in calories and fat but high in fiber and vitamins. The honey and maple syrup add natural sweetness without refined sugars. The dish is also gluten-free and dairy-free if you use dairy-free butter. It’s perfect for those looking for a healthy yet flavorful side dish.