Crispy Honey-Roasted Butternut with Cranberries, Feta, and Pumpkin Seeds:
Ingredients:
- 1 medium butternut squash, halved and seeds removed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 2 tablespoons pumpkin seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for extra warmth)
- 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for heat)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Prepare the Butternut Squash:
- Slice the butternut squash into halves (or quarters if preferred). You can also peel and cube it for smaller pieces, but roasting halves gives a nice presentation.
- Drizzle the olive oil and honey over the squash, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of cinnamon if using.
- Roast the Squash:
- Place the squash, cut-side up, on the prepared baking sheet. Roast for 35-45 minutes, or until the squash is tender and caramelized around the edges. If using cubes, reduce roasting time to around 25-30 minutes, tossing halfway through.
- Prepare the Toppings:
- In a small bowl, mix the crumbled feta cheese, dried cranberries, and pumpkin seeds.
- Assemble the Dish:
- Once the squash is done roasting, remove it from the oven. Sprinkle the feta, cranberries, and pumpkin seeds evenly over the roasted squash. For an extra pop of flavor, you can add a drizzle of honey or a pinch of chili flakes on top.
- Final Bake (Optional):
- For a more melted and integrated topping, place the assembled squash back in the oven for another 5 minutes, just until the feta cheese begins to soften.
- Serve:
- Serve warm as a side dish or even a light main course. Garnish with fresh herbs like thyme or parsley if desired.
Tips:
- Variations: You can substitute goat cheese for feta, or use pecans or walnuts instead of pumpkin seeds for different textures.
- Meal Pairing: This dish pairs well with roasted chicken, grilled meats, or can be enjoyed on its own with a simple salad.
Enjoy your crispy, honey-roasted butternut squash with a delightful balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors!