Oh my goodness, let me tell you about roasted butternut squash with cranberries and feta! This dish is like a cozy hug on a plate. The butternut squash gets all caramelized and sweet in the oven, and when you add the tart cranberries, it’s just a flavor explosion! And don’t even get me started on the feta—it’s like a little sprinkle of magic that brings everything together. I love serving this as a side dish, especially during fall and winter gatherings. It’s not just delicious, but it also looks stunning with those vibrant colors. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll become your go-to side for dinner parties or family meals. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, which is always a win in my book!
Ingredients List
- 1 butternut squash, peeled and cubed into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup cranberries, fresh or dried (I prefer fresh for that zing!)
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled (adjust this to your liking, but trust me—more is better!)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin for that lovely flavor)
- Salt to taste (don’t skip this, it really brings out the flavors!)
- Pepper to taste (a little kick never hurt anyone)
How to Prepare Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries and Feta
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Alright, let’s get that oven preheated! Set it to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is perfect for roasting and will give the squash that lovely golden color we all crave. Make sure to give it a few minutes to heat up while you prepare the rest!
Step 2: Prepare the Butternut Squash
Now, grab that beautiful butternut squash you peeled and cubed. In a large mixing bowl, toss the squash pieces with about 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add a generous pinch of salt and a dash of pepper. I like to use my hands for this part—get in there and make sure every piece is well-coated. It’s like giving your squash a little spa treatment!
Step 3: Roast the Squash
Spread the squash out in a single layer on a baking sheet. You want them to have space to roast evenly, so don’t crowd them! Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and roast for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re tender and starting to caramelize. Just keep an eye on them; you want that perfect golden-brown color without burning!
Step 4: Add Cranberries and Feta
Once the squash is beautifully roasted, take it out and sprinkle in the cranberries. Then, add that crumbled feta cheese all over the top. It’s going to look so inviting! Return the baking sheet to the oven for just another 5 minutes. This will help the cranberries soften and the feta get all melty and delicious.
Step 5: Serving
When it’s out of the oven, serve your roasted butternut squash warm. You can even garnish it with a few extra cranberries or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for that pop of color. Trust me, this dish not only tastes incredible, but it also looks stunning on the table. Enjoy every bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s a quick and easy side dish, ready in just 45 minutes!
- The combination of sweet butternut squash and tart cranberries creates a deliciously balanced flavor profile.
- Feta cheese adds a creamy, salty kick that elevates the whole dish.
- This recipe is perfect for any season, but especially shines during fall and winter gatherings.
- It’s packed with nutrients, making it a healthy addition to your meals.
- The vibrant colors will brighten up any table setting, making it visually appealing.
- It’s incredibly versatile—great for family dinners or potlucks, and sure to impress your guests!
Tips for Success
- Choose the right squash: Look for a butternut squash that feels heavy for its size and has a smooth, tan skin. This ensures you’re getting a sweet and flavorful squash!
- Cut evenly: Make sure your squash cubes are roughly the same size. This helps them roast evenly and ensures that some don’t end up mushy while others are still hard. Aim for about 1-inch cubes!
- Don’t skimp on oil: A good coating of olive oil helps with caramelization, so don’t be afraid to use enough! It also prevents the squash from sticking to the pan.
- Keep an eye on roasting time: Ovens can vary, so check on your squash towards the end of the roasting time. You want them golden and tender, not burnt! A quick poke with a fork will tell you if they’re done.
- Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the squash before roasting for extra warmth. A splash of balsamic vinegar before serving can also elevate the flavors.
- Watch the cranberries: If you’re using fresh cranberries, they’ll pop a bit in the oven, which is great! But if you’re using dried, add them later in the cooking process to keep them chewy.
- Presentation is key: When you serve this dish, consider using a nice serving bowl or platter. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or thyme on top adds a lovely touch!
Variations on Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries and Feta
Oh, the possibilities are endless when it comes to making roasted butternut squash with cranberries and feta your own! Here are some fun variations that I think you’ll love:
- Add Nuts: For a delightful crunch, toss in some chopped pecans or walnuts before roasting. They’ll add a lovely texture and a nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the squash and cranberries.
- Herb It Up: Try adding fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the squash before roasting. The scent of herbs wafting through your kitchen is just heavenly!
- Spice It Up: If you’re feeling adventurous, sprinkle in some chili powder or smoked paprika for a little kick. It’ll give your dish a warm, smoky flavor that’s oh-so-good!
- Maple Glaze: Drizzle some maple syrup over the squash before roasting for a touch of sweetness that complements the cranberries perfectly. It’s like a sweet and savory match made in heaven!
- Go Vegan: Swap out the feta for a vegan cheese alternative or even some nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy. It’s just as delicious and perfect for plant-based eaters!
- Mix in Other Veggies: Feel free to add other seasonal veggies like Brussels sprouts or carrots to the mix. They roast beautifully alongside the squash and add even more flavor and color.
These variations not only keep things exciting but also let you customize the dish to suit your tastes or whatever you have on hand. So, get creative and make it your own!
Nutritional Information
When you’re enjoying my roasted butternut squash with cranberries and feta, it’s nice to know what you’re indulging in nutritionally. Here are some estimated values to give you a better idea:
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 10g
- Protein: 6g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Cholesterol: 20mg
These values are typical estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. But overall, this dish is not just delicious but also a healthy option packed with flavor and nutrients. So, enjoy every bite without guilt!
FAQ Section
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can roast the butternut squash and let it cool, then store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, just add the cranberries and feta, then warm it up in the oven for about 10 minutes at 350°F (175°C). This makes it perfect for meal prepping!
What can I substitute for feta cheese?
If you’re looking for a substitute, goat cheese works wonderfully in this recipe, giving a similar tangy flavor. For a dairy-free option, try crumbled tofu seasoned with lemon juice and nutritional yeast—it’s surprisingly tasty!
Can I use frozen butternut squash?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess moisture before tossing it with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Cooking times may vary slightly, so keep an eye on it while it roasts!
How can I adjust the sweetness?
If you prefer a sweeter dish, consider drizzling a little maple syrup over the squash before roasting. Alternatively, you can use sweetened dried cranberries instead of fresh ones for that extra sweetness!
What can I serve alongside this dish?
Roasted butternut squash with cranberries and feta pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, pork chops, or even a hearty quinoa salad. It’s a versatile side that complements a variety of main dishes!
For more delicious recipes, check out this butternut squash turkey quinoa chili or creamy garlic pasta for a comforting meal!
Print
Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries and Feta Bliss
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Roasted butternut squash with cranberries and feta is a tasty side dish.
Ingredients
- 1 butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup cranberries, fresh or dried
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss the butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
- Spread the squash on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Roast for 25-30 minutes or until tender.
- Remove from the oven and add cranberries.
- Sprinkle feta cheese over the top and return to the oven for 5 minutes.
- Serve warm.
Notes
- Use fresh cranberries for a tart flavor.
- Adjust feta quantity according to taste.
- You can add nuts for extra crunch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: roasted butternut squash, cranberries, feta
