Savor the Season with Two Delish Butternut Squash Recipes!

As the leaves change hues and the air gets a little chillier, it's time to embrace the bounty of fall. Butternut squash emerges as one of the highlights of the season. This vegetable is not just flavorful but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re harvesting it from your own garden as I did, or selecting the freshest one from the local market, it’s sure to elevate your fall dishes. In this post, I'm sharing tasty ways to enjoy butternut squash, focusing on roasting and two delicious recipes that spotlight its unique taste.

Why Butternut Squash?

Butternut squash is tasty and offers a wealth of nutrients. A cup of cooked butternut squash packs around 82 calories, along with over 400% of your daily recommended value of vitamin A and about 52% of vitamin C. It's also high in fiber, which aids in digestion and promotes feelings of fullness. Its natural sweetness makes it a fantastic match for savory and sweet recipes alike, providing a comforting flavor to any meal. This squash can easily transition from soups to salads, adding both texture and nutrition.

How to Roast Butternut Squash

Roasting butternut squash is one of the easiest and most rewarding ways to enjoy it. The roasting process transforms its natural sugars, enhancing flavor and creating a tender texture. Here’s a straightforward guide on how to roast butternut squash:

Ingredients

• 1 medium butternut squash

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Optional: spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or paprika for added depth

  
  

Preparation Method

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Prepare the Squash: Cut the squash into half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. While peeling may be optional, I usually peel and slice or dice the squash for roasting, except when making soup. In these recipes I'm sharing today, I normally peel the Butternut squash, slice it into rounds and/or cubes as seen in the photos below.

Season: Coat the squash halves with olive oil, then add salt, pepper, and any preferred spices. If using diced squash, pour olive oil and seasoning over the pieces and mix gently.

Place the squash cut side down or in diced form on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Roast until a fork can easily penetrate the flesh, which typically takes between 25 to 45 minutes, depending on whether the squash is sliced, diced, or halved.

Serve: Allow the squash to cool slightly before serving or incorporating in a salad

or another recipe.

Now that you know how to roast butternut squash perfectly, let’s explore two delicious recipes that take advantage of its wonderful taste.

Butternut Squash Pasta Salad with Rotini, Fresh Figs and Arugula

This pasta salad stands out with its blend of flavors and textures, making it a fantastic option for a fall gathering or a cozy dinner. The sweetness of roasted butternut squash complements fresh figs and peppery arugula; all balanced with a creamy feta dressing.

Ingredients

• 1 medium butternut squash, roasted and cubed

• 2 cups rotini pasta

• 1 cup fresh figs, quartered

• 2 cups arugula greens

• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled

• 1/4 cup olive oil

• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

• Salt and pepper, to taste

  
  

Preparation Method

Cook the Pasta: Boil the rotini according to package directions, then drain and

allow to cool.

Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the roasted butternut squash, cooked pasta, figs, and arugula.

Make the Dressing: Whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Drizzle over the salad and mix gently.

Optional - Add Feta: Sprinkle crumbled feta on top & give the salad a gentle toss.

Serve: Enjoy this salad warm or cold, making it perfect for any occasion.

Roasted Butternut Squash Appetizer with Apples, Feta, Walnuts, and Mint

Impress your guests with this eye-catching and delicious appetizer. The combination of roasted butternut squash, sweet apples, creamy feta, crunchy walnuts, and fresh mint creates an appetizer bursting with flavor, perfect for any fall gathering.

Ingredients

• 1 medium butternut squash, sliced into rounds

• 1 apple, thinly sliced

• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled

• 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped

• Fresh mint leaves for garnish

• Honey for drizzling

  
  

Preparation Method

Roast the Squash: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the sliced butternut squash slices on a baking sheet covered with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and roast for 20-25 minutes until tender and caramelized.

Assemble the Appetizer: Once roasted, arrange the squash slices on a platter. Top with apple slices, crumbled feta, and a sprinkle of chopped walnuts.

Garnish: Add mint leaves and drizzle honey over the top for sweet contrast.

Serve: This appetizer is delightful warm or at room temperature.

Savor the Season with Butternut Squash

Butternut squash shines during the fall harvest, and these recipes highlight its adaptability and scrumptiousness. Whether you’re roasting it for a comforting side, mixing it in a pasta salad, or crafting a lovely appetizer, butternut squash will surely please everyone at your table. Gather your ingredients, relish the flavors of the season, and enjoy the warmth that butternut squash brings to your meals.

A delicious roasted butternut squash appetizer with fresh toppings

Happy Cooking!

Karitas