Description
This Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries and Feta is a deliciously sweet and savory side dish featuring tender, caramelized butternut squash cubes roasted to perfection, tossed with tart fresh cranberries and creamy, crumbly feta cheese. Enhanced with pure maple syrup and a touch of olive oil, this easy-to-make recipe brings vibrant colors and balanced flavors to your table, perfect for cozy dinners or holiday feasts.
Ingredients
Scale
Squash
- 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 pounds), peeled and cubed
Other Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s at the ideal temperature for roasting the squash evenly and developing a nice caramelization.
- Toss Squash with Seasoning: In a large bowl, combine the peeled and cubed butternut squash with extra virgin olive oil, pure maple syrup, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Toss everything thoroughly until the squash cubes are evenly coated with the mixture.
- Roast the Squash: Spread the seasoned squash cubes in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until the squash is tender and starting to brown on the edges.
- Add Cranberries and Feta: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and evenly sprinkle the fresh cranberries and crumbled feta cheese over the roasted squash. Return the baking sheet to the oven and roast for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cranberries are slightly softened and the feta is warmed through.
- Serve: Remove from oven and serve the roasted butternut squash warm as a flavorful side dish that complements a variety of main courses.
Notes
- For extra depth, try adding a handful of toasted pecans or walnuts for crunch.
- You can substitute goat cheese for feta if preferred.
- If fresh cranberries are unavailable, frozen can be used but rinse and pat dry before adding.
- Adjust maple syrup quantity to taste for desired sweetness.
- This dish is excellent for meal prep; store in airtight containers and reheat gently.
