Name: Roasted Butternut Squash with Feta, Honey, and Walnuts Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 butternut squash; Olive oil; 1 clove of garlic, minced; 1 tbsp honey (plus extra for drizzling); Smoked paprika; Herbs of Provence; Fleur de sel (or sea salt); Pepper, to taste; Feta cheese, crumbled; Walnuts, crushed; Pine nuts

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Roasted Butternut Squash with Feta, Honey, and Walnuts is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines savory, sweet, and nutty elements in every bite. The butternut squash is perfectly roasted until tender and caramelized, then topped with creamy feta cheese, a drizzle of honey, and crunchy walnuts and pine nuts. This easy yet elegant dish is ideal for a side or even as a main for a light, healthy meal. It’s a delightful blend of textures and flavors that will surely impress your guests!

Ingredients

1 butternut squash
Olive oil
1 clove of garlic, minced
1 tbsp honey (plus extra for drizzling)
Smoked paprika
Herbs of Provence
Fleur de sel (or sea salt)
Pepper, to taste
Feta cheese, crumbled
Walnuts, crushed
Pine nuts

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Butternut Squash:

Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F).
Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise and remove the seeds with a spoon. Use a peeler to peel off the skin.
Make shallow cuts into the flesh of each half without cutting all the way through.

Prepare the Marinade:

In a bowl, combine olive oil, honey, minced garlic, smoked paprika, herbs of Provence, and a little pepper. Stir until the marinade is well mixed.

Roast the Butternut Squash:

Brush the butternut squash halves with the marinade, making sure to coat them evenly.
Sprinkle a pinch of fleur de sel (or sea salt) on top.
Place the squash halves on a baking sheet and bake for about 1 hour, or until the squash is tender and golden. (If your squash is smaller, check for doneness after 45 minutes.)

Assemble the Dish:

Once the squash is roasted, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly.
Sprinkle the roasted squash with crumbled feta cheese, drizzle with honey, and top with crushed walnuts and pine nuts for added crunch and flavor.

Serve:

Serve the roasted butternut squash warm, and enjoy the delightful combination of sweet, savory, and nutty flavors!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

Vegan Version: Use vegan feta or skip the cheese altogether for a plant-based alternative.
Add More Veggies: You can also roast some carrots or sweet potatoes alongside the squash for a more hearty dish.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the marinade for a spicy twist.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover roasted butternut squash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.

FAQs

1. Can I use other squash varieties?

Yes, other squash varieties like acorn squash or kabocha will work well in this recipe. Adjust cooking time as needed based on the size of the squash.

2. Can I prepare this ahead of time?

You can prep the squash by cutting and peeling it ahead of time, and then roast it just before serving. The feta, honey, and nuts can be added right after roasting.

3. Can I use a different cheese?

Yes, goat cheese or ricotta salata would also work great in this recipe as a substitute for feta.

4. Can I make this recipe without nuts?

Yes, if you have nut allergies or just prefer not to use nuts, you can skip them or replace them with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds.

5. How do I know when the squash is done?

The squash is done when it is tender and easily pierced with a fork, and the edges should be slightly caramelized.

6. Can I make this a full meal?

Yes, you can serve this roasted butternut squash as a main dish by pairing it with a grain like quinoa or couscous, or even serving it alongside a simple salad.

7. Can I add more seasoning to the marinade?

Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking—adding a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or fresh thyme would complement the squash nicely.

8. How can I make the roasted squash even sweeter?

For an extra sweet touch, try drizzling with maple syrup instead of honey or adding a sprinkle of brown sugar before roasting.

9. Can I roast the squash with the skin on?

While the skin is edible, peeling the squash beforehand makes it easier to eat and ensures that the flesh gets well-roasted.

10. Can I use pre-cut squash?

Yes, pre-cut butternut squash can be used, but make sure it’s evenly sized for uniform roasting. The cooking time may be shorter.

Conclusion

This Roasted Butternut Squash with Feta, Honey, and Walnuts is the perfect side dish for any occasion. The combination of savory squash, tangy feta, sweet honey, and crunchy nuts creates a delightful balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday feast or a simple dinner, it’s sure to become a favorite on your table!