Name: Crispy Honey Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries & Feta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: International
Ingredients: 1 medium butternut squash (2.5-3 lbs); 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 2 tbsp honey; 1 tsp dried thyme; ½ tsp garlic powder; ¼ tsp smoked paprika; ½ tsp sea salt; ¼ tsp black pepper; ½ cup dried cranberries; ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese; ¼ cup raw pumpkin seeds; Preparation Instructions:

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If you’re looking for a dish that truly captures the essence of autumn, then you’ve found it! This Crispy Honey Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries & Feta is not just a recipe; it’s a celebration of the season. The combination of sweet honey, tangy cranberries, and creamy feta creates a delightful harmony that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or need a vibrant side for holiday gatherings, this dish is sure to impress!

What makes this recipe extra special is its simplicity. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, you can create something that feels gourmet. Plus, it’s an excellent way to sneak some veggies into your meal without anyone noticing!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: With simple prep steps and straightforward cooking, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
Family-Friendly Appeal: The sweet and savory flavors are loved by both kids and adults, making it great for family meals.
Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the butternut squash in advance and roast it just before serving.
Vibrant Fall Flavors: Each bite bursts with autumn’s bounty—it’s like enjoying a warm hug on your plate!
Gorgeous Presentation: The bright colors and textures make it an eye-catching addition to any table.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple yet incredibly flavorful. You’ll find them all at your local grocery store, making it easy to whip up this dish any time you want.

1 medium butternut squash (2.5-3 lbs)
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
2 tbsp honey
1 tsp dried thyme (or 2 tsp fresh, chopped)
½ tsp garlic powder (or 1 minced fresh clove)
¼ tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp sea salt
¼ tsp black pepper
½ cup dried cranberries
¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
¼ cup raw pumpkin seeds
Optional: Fresh parsley or mint, chopped, for garnish

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully versatile! Feel free to mix things up depending on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

Add More Veggies: Toss in some diced red onion or bell peppers for extra color and flavor.
Change the Cheese: If feta isn’t your favorite, try goat cheese or even a dairy-free alternative for a different twist.
Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix for a spicy kick!
Use Different Nuts: Swap pumpkin seeds with walnuts or pecans for added crunch and richness.

How to Make Crispy Honey Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries & Feta

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that when you place your squash inside, it will get nicely caramelized and crispy on the edges right from the beginning.

Step 2: Prepare the Butternut Squash

Peel the butternut squash carefully. Halve it lengthwise, scoop out those pesky seeds and fibrous strands, then cut the squash into uniform cubes about ¾ inch each. Cutting them evenly helps them cook at the same rate so you’ll have perfectly roasted pieces every time!

Step 3: Mix Your Seasoning

In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, honey, dried thyme, garlic powder, smoked paprika, sea salt, and black pepper. This mixture is what brings out all those wonderful flavors in your squash while adding that hint of sweetness.

Step 4: Coat the Squash

Add your cubed squash to the bowl with the seasoning mix. Toss gently until every piece is well-coated. This step is crucial because it allows all those delicious flavors to seep into every cube as they roast.

Step 5: Arrange on Baking Sheets

Spread the coated squash in a single layer on two lined baking sheets. Make sure none of them are touching; this will help them roast evenly and develop those beautiful crispy edges we all love!

Step 6: Roast Away!

Roast in your preheated oven for about 15 minutes. Then flip each piece over so they brown evenly. Continue roasting for another 15–20 minutes until they’re fork-tender and beautifully caramelized.

Step 7: Add Cranberries and Seeds

Once roasted perfectly, take them out of the oven and sprinkle dried cranberries and pumpkin seeds evenly over the top. These add not only flavor but also texture—crunchy seeds against soft squash? Yes please!

Step 8: Finish with Feta

Gently toss everything together before sprinkling crumbled feta cheese over it all. The residual heat from the squash will warm up the feta just enough to release its creamy goodness without melting it entirely.

Step 9: Serve Warm

Taste your creation and adjust seasoning if needed—maybe another pinch of salt or pepper? Garnish with optional chopped parsley or mint for that final touch. Serve warm and enjoy every delicious bite!

Pro Tips for Making Crispy Honey Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries & Feta

Creating the perfect crispy honey roasted butternut squash is easier than you think! Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

Choose the right squash: Opt for a medium-sized butternut squash that feels heavy for its size. This ensures a sweeter and more flavorful result.
Uniformly cut pieces: Cutting the squash into ¾-inch cubes allows for even cooking, ensuring that each piece roasts perfectly and gets those delicious caramelized edges.
Don’t overcrowd the pan: Spreading the squash out in a single layer prevents steaming and promotes crispiness. If necessary, use two baking sheets to give each piece enough space.
Adjust roasting time based on your oven: Every oven is different, so keep an eye on the squash as it roasts. You may need to tweak the cooking time slightly for the best results.
Experiment with toppings: While cranberries and feta are fantastic, feel free to add or substitute other toppings like walnuts or goat cheese for a twist on flavor and texture!

How to Serve Crispy Honey Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries & Feta

This vibrant dish not only looks beautiful but also tastes divine, making it perfect for any gathering. Here are a few ideas on how to present it beautifully at your table.

Garnishes

Chopped fresh herbs: A sprinkle of parsley or mint adds a burst of freshness and color.
Zest of lemon: A light dusting of lemon zest brightens up the flavors and adds a zesty kick.

Side Dishes

Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a lemon vinaigrette complements the sweetness of the squash beautifully.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The nutty flavor of roasted Brussels sprouts provides a great contrast to the sweet notes in this dish while maintaining that fall vibe.
Cranberry Sauce: A homemade cranberry sauce can add an extra layer of tartness that balances well with both the honey in the squash and the feta cheese.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes make for a comforting side that pairs wonderfully with the crispy texture of roasted squash.

With these suggestions, your crispy honey roasted butternut squash will shine as a standout dish at any meal! Enjoy every bite!

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Make Ahead and Storage

This Crispy Honey Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries & Feta is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and store it for later, making it a convenient addition to your busy week.

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover butternut squash in an airtight container.
Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Make sure to let it cool to room temperature before sealing the container to prevent condensation.

Freezing

To freeze, spread the roasted squash on a baking sheet in a single layer.
Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Alternatively, you can use the microwave, heating in short intervals and stirring until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

How can I make Crispy Honey Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries & Feta vegan?

To make this dish vegan, simply substitute the feta cheese with a plant-based alternative. There are many great options available that mimic feta’s flavor and texture!

What can I serve with Crispy Honey Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries & Feta?

This vibrant side dish pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish, or as part of a hearty grain bowl. It also makes an excellent addition to any fall-themed dinner!

Can I use other types of squash instead of butternut?

Absolutely! While butternut squash gives a lovely sweetness and texture, you can experiment with acorn squash or kabocha. Adjust cooking times accordingly based on the type you choose.

How do I ensure my butternut squash gets crispy?

To achieve that delightful crispiness, ensure that you spread the squash out in a single layer on your baking sheet without overcrowding. This allows for even roasting and caramelization!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Crispy Honey Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries & Feta! It’s not only a feast for the eyes but also a delight for your taste buds. Whether you’re preparing it for a special gathering or just an everyday meal, it’s bound to impress. Enjoy every bite of this heartwarming dish and feel free to share your experiences—I can’t wait to hear how you enjoyed it!