Deliciously Sweet Cinnamon Roasted Butternut Squash Recipe
Oh boy, if you haven’t tried cinnamon roasted butternut squash, you are seriously missing out! Just picture this: sweet, caramelized squash that’s perfectly spiced with cinnamon, filling your kitchen with this cozy, warm aroma. It’s like a hug in food form, and honestly, it’s so simple to whip up. I mean, I can almost feel the fall breeze and hear the leaves rustling just thinking about it! Perfect as a side dish or even tossed in a salad, it’s one of those recipes that always finds a way onto my dinner table.
Why You’ll Crave It
- It’s super easy to prepare—seriously, even a kid could do it.
- The blend of sweet and spice is just… well, it’s magical!
- Perfectly versatile—great as a side, or mixed into salads.
- Healthy and nutritious, without sacrificing flavor. Who doesn’t love that?
- Your kitchen will smell incredible while it’s roasting. Like, wow!
The first time I made this, my whole family practically fought over the last pieces…
What You’ll Need
- 1 medium butternut squash: about 2 pounds, look for one that’s nice and firm.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: a good drizzle will do—you want it just enough to coat.
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar: for that perfect hint of sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: because more cinnamon equals more happiness!
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg: it’s like a gentle hug from a spice.
- ½ teaspoon salt: to balance all the sweetness out, it’s important.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: because a tiny bit of spice keeps things interesting.
Easy How-To
Get the Roasting Started
Alright, first things first—preheat that oven to 400°F (200°C). You want it nice and hot, so the squash caramelizes beautifully. While that’s going, peel your butternut squash with a veggie peeler, which can be a bit tricky, but you got this! Then, cut it in half lengthwise and scoop out those seeds. Next, chop it into about 1-inch cubes. The size doesn’t have to be perfect, but close enough… you know, for even cooking.
Good to Know
- Select a squash that feels heavy for its size and has smooth, firm skin—your best bet for sweetness.
- If you have leftovers (which, let’s be honest, might not happen), store them in an airtight container in the fridge; they’ll last about four days!
Serving Ideas
- Serve it warm as a cozy side dish alongside roasted meats, or toss it into a salad for some texture and sweetness.
Top Tricks
- Don’t skip the tossing part—coating the squash evenly with oil and spices is key to getting that delicious flavor!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of squash for this recipe?
Absolutely! You could try acorn squash or even pumpkin; they’ll work just fine, though you might want to keep an eye on the cooking times because they can vary a bit.
Is the recipe naturally vegan?
Yes, it sure is! It’s just the sweet squash and those warm spices, no animal products in sight!
What’s the best way to store my leftover roasted butternut squash?
Just pop it in an airtight container, and toss it in the fridge—should be good for about four days. I mean, if it lasts that long…
Is peeling the butternut squash necessary?
Not really! You can keep the skin on if you wash it well, and it actually softens up a bit during roasting, so your call!
Conclusion
Cinnamon roasted butternut squash is not just a side dish; it’s an experience. The way that sweet, nutty flavor dances on your taste buds is something you just have to try. Trust me; when you make this, you’ll want to add it to every gathering, cozy dinner, or just, well, your weekdays… It just brings that warm, comforting vibe that’s so hard to resist.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Butternut Squash Soup
Blend roasted butternut squash with some broth for a creamy soup that warms you to your core!
Quinoa Salad with Roasted Vegetables
Combine the squash with quinoa, black beans, and some roasted veggies—it’s filling and so colorful!
Stuffed Butternut Squash
Take those halves, fill them with grains, nuts, maybe even a bit of cheese… and bake. So good!
Pasta with Butternut Squash and Sage
Toss that pasta with roasted squash, fresh sage, and a sprinkle of Parmesan. Dinner in no time!
Butternut Squash Risotto
Incorporate that roasted goodness into risotto for a luxe dinner that feels like a hug on a plate.
Roasted Butternut Squash Tacos
Yeah, totally fill up tacos with that sweet squash, a little avocado, and some lime crema—it’s a total game changer!
