Crispy Honey-Roasted Butternut : with Cranberries, Feta, & Pumpkin Seed 🎃

Are you in search of a perfect fall recipe that effortlessly balances sweet and savory flavors? 🌟 Look no further than this Crispy Honey-Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries, Feta, & Pumpkin Seed dish. This heartwarming recipe is ideal for cozy autumn evenings, holiday gatherings, or even a special weeknight dinner. 🎉 With the natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash 🍠, the tartness of dried cranberries, the creaminess of feta cheese 🧀, and the crunch of pumpkin seeds 🎃, this dish will take your taste buds on a delightful fall journey. 🍁

🍽️ Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Ingredients
• Step-by-Step Instructions
• Prepping the Butternut Squash
• Roasting to Perfection
• Preparing the Toppings
• Serving Suggestions
• Nutritional Benefits
• Tips & Variations
• FAQs
• Conclusion

🍁 Introduction

As the air turns crisp and the leaves change color, fall ushers in a season of warm, comforting flavors. Butternut squash has become synonymous with autumn 🍂, and it’s no wonder why! Its subtle sweetness and creamy texture make it a versatile ingredient in both sweet and savory dishes. 🥄 Whether you’re hosting Thanksgiving dinner, looking for a unique dish for a potluck, or simply want to add more vegetables to your daily meals, this Crispy Honey-Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries, Feta, & Pumpkin Seed will be your new favorite go-to recipe. 😍

But this dish isn’t just about flavor—it’s packed with nutritional benefits that support your health while satisfying your taste buds. From the vitamin-rich butternut squash to the omega-3 fatty acids in pumpkin seeds, you’ll enjoy a dish that tastes indulgent but is secretly packed with health benefits. 🌿

So, without further ado, let’s jump into how to create this beautiful and tasty dish that’s perfect for the fall season! 🍁

🛒 Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make Crispy Honey-Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries, Feta, & Pumpkin Seed:

• 1 medium butternut squash (about 3 lbs), peeled, seeded, and cut into 1-inch cubes 🎃
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil 🫒
• 2 tablespoons of honey 🍯 (or maple syrup for a vegan alternative)
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 🌰
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg 🍂
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika 🌶️
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 🧂
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 🖤
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries 🍒
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese 🧀 (use vegan feta if needed)
• 2 tablespoons pumpkin seeds (pepitas) 🌰
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped 🌿 (optional, for garnish)
• Zest of one orange 🍊 (optional, adds a bright citrus note)

🥄 Step-by-Step Crispy Honey-Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries, Feta, & Pumpkin Seed

🔪 Prepping the Butternut Squash

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Preparing your oven ahead of time ensures that the squash roasts to a crispy perfection. Pro tip: Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper makes cleanup super easy! 👌
2. Peel and Cube the Squash: Peel the butternut squash using a vegetable peeler. Slice it in half lengthwise, scoop out the seeds, and cut the flesh into 1-inch cubes. For an extra fall flavor, you can reserve the seeds and roast them for a crunchy snack or topping. 🎃
3. Season the Squash: In a large mixing bowl, toss the squash cubes with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of honey, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. 🥄 Ensure each cube is evenly coated, as this will caramelize beautifully during roasting.

🍲 Roasting to Perfection

4. Spread the Squash: Arrange the butternut squash cubes in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Spreading the cubes out ensures that they roast evenly and become perfectly crispy without steaming. 🌟
5. Roast the Squash: Slide the tray into the oven and roast for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through. When the edges are golden brown and caramelized, you’ll know they’re ready! 🎉 The roasting process enhances the squash’s natural sweetness while giving it that irresistible crispy texture. 😋

🍳 Preparing the Toppings

6. Toast the Pumpkin Seeds: While the squash is roasting, heat a small skillet over medium heat. Toast the pumpkin seeds until they become fragrant and begin to pop. Stir frequently to avoid burning. 🌰 This will add a crunchy texture to your dish, balancing the creamy feta and sweet squash. 🤩
7. Rehydrate the Cranberries: If your cranberries are a little tough, you can soak them in warm water for about 5 minutes to plump them up. This step is optional but makes for a juicier burst of flavor! 🍒
8. Crumbled Feta and Fresh Parsley: Once the squash is done roasting, transfer it to a serving dish. Sprinkle the roasted squash with crumbled feta, dried cranberries, toasted pumpkin seeds, and chopped fresh parsley for a touch of color and freshness. 🌿

🍴 Serving Suggestions

There are countless ways to enjoy this delicious fall dish. Here are a few ideas to spark inspiration:

• As a Side Dish: This recipe works perfectly alongside your holiday favorites. Serve it with roast turkey or roasted chicken for a cozy dinner. 🍗
• Over a Salad: Make this dish the star of a fall salad! Toss the roasted squash with mixed greens, some quinoa, and a tangy balsamic vinaigrette for a complete meal. 🥗
• In a Grain Bowl: Combine the roasted squash with farro, wild rice, or brown rice. Add a drizzle of tahini or a sprinkle of pomegranate seeds for a burst of color and flavor. 🍚
• Holiday Side: It makes a lovely side for holiday meals and pairs well with other fall vegetables like Brussels sprouts or roasted sweet potatoes.

🥗 Nutritional Benefits

One of the best parts about this dish is how nutrient-dense it is, making it a great option for anyone looking to add more vegetables and healthy fats to their diet. Let’s take a closer look at the nutritional benefits of the main ingredients:

🎃 Butternut Squash

Butternut squash is packed with vitamin A (more than 450% of your daily recommended intake in just one cup!), making it great for eye health and immune support. It’s also high in fiber, promoting healthy digestion and keeping you feeling full longer. 🍽️ Plus, butternut squash is a good source of vitamin C, potassium, and magnesium. 💪

🍯 Honey

Honey brings a natural sweetness to the dish without the need for refined sugar. It has antioxidant properties that help reduce inflammation and support immune function. Plus, honey adds a caramelized glaze to the squash when roasted, making it even more irresistible! 🍯

🍒 Cranberries

Dried cranberries add a burst of tangy sweetness to this dish and are rich in antioxidants. Cranberries are well-known for their urinary tract health benefits, thanks to their high levels of proanthocyanidins (a type of polyphenol). 🍒

🧀 Feta Cheese

Feta is not only flavorful but also rich in calcium, which supports strong bones and teeth. 🦷 It also provides a good amount of protein, which helps keep you satiated, and adds a creamy texture that complements the sweetness of the squash and the tartness of the cranberries. 🧀

🌰 Pumpkin Seeds

Pumpkin seeds are a powerhouse of nutrition. These tiny seeds are rich in magnesium, which supports muscle and nerve function, and are a good source of zinc, which boosts the immune system. 🧠 They also provide omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for heart health. 💓 Plus, their crunch adds a delightful contrast to the soft roasted squash! 🌰

💡 Tips & Vari

ations

Make It Vegan 🌱

To make this dish completely plant-based, swap out the feta cheese for a vegan cheese alternative. There are many delicious vegan feta brands available that maintain the same tangy and creamy flavor without any dairy! 🧀

Add Protein 🍗

For a heartier meal, add some roasted chicken breast or pan-seared salmon on top of this dish. The mild flavor of chicken or the richness of salmon pairs perfectly with the sweet and savory flavors of the squash. 🎣 If you’re hosting a vegetarian dinner, you could even add some cooked chickpeas for a protein boost!

Experiment with Spices 🌶️

If you love bold flavors, try adding different spices to the squash before roasting. Smoked paprika brings a hint of smokiness, while a dash of cayenne pepper will add some heat. For a more exotic twist, sprinkle the squash with ground cumin or coriander. 🌍

Sweeten the Deal 🍯

For those with a sweet tooth, you can drizzle a little extra honey or even maple syrup on top of the dish once it’s out of the oven. You’ll love how the warm sweetness complements the tart cranberries and creamy feta! 🍁

❓ FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time? ⏳

Yes, this dish is a great make-ahead option! You can roast the butternut squash up to two days ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the squash in the oven at 350°F until warm, then add the toppings just before serving. 🌟

Is this recipe gluten-free? 🌾

Yes! This dish is naturally gluten-free, making it a perfect option for those with dietary restrictions or sensitivities. It’s a great addition to any holiday table, where guests might have various dietary needs. 🥳

What can I substitute for butternut squash? 🍠

If you can’t find butternut squash, or if you simply want to try something different, you can easily substitute with acorn squash, delicata squash, or even sweet potatoes. Each variation brings its own unique flavor and texture, but all will roast beautifully with the honey and spices. 🌰

📝 Conclusion

In summary, this Crispy Honey-Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries, Feta, & Pumpkin Seed is an ideal dish for fall, blending seasonal flavors and textures for a memorable meal. Whether you serve it as a side dish, mix it into a salad, or add it to a grain bowl, it’s guaranteed to be a hit. 🎉 The combination of sweet honey, creamy feta, and crunchy pumpkin seeds is sure to leave everyone asking for seconds!

Don’t forget to check out other delicious fall recipes on CamiRecipes, like this Sweet Potato Ukoy that will also elevate your autumn menu. 🌟

Enjoy your cooking and happy eating! 🍴✨

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