Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries, Goat Cheese & Shallots is a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors, perfect for any occasion. This dish not only pleases the palate but also provides numerous health benefits, making it an excellent choice for those seeking delicious yet nutritious meals. With vibrant colors, a comforting aroma, and a texture that melts in your mouth, it’s a recipe that’s simple to prepare, ensuring you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying with friends and family.
Why make this Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries, Goat Cheese & Shallots recipe
- Protein-rich: Goat cheese adds a creamy texture while providing a good source of protein.
- Quick prep: With just a few simple steps, you can have this dish ready to roast in under 15 minutes.
- Meal-prep friendly: This recipe can be made ahead of time and reheated, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Low-carb: Roasted butternut squash is lower in carbs compared to traditional starches like potatoes.
- Kid-approved: The natural sweetness of the butternut squash and cranberries often wins over even the pickiest eaters.
"This dish is a hit at family gatherings; everyone loves the combination of flavors!" – Satisfied Cook
How to make Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries, Goat Cheese & Shallots
Making Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries, Goat Cheese & Shallots is a straightforward process that involves roasting ingredients to enhance their natural sweetness. You will need basic kitchen tools like a cutting board, knife, and a baking sheet. This dish can be paired perfectly with a crisp salad, such as Southwest Chicken Salad.
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 4 oz goat cheese, crumbled
- 2 shallots, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme for garnish (optional)
This Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries, Goat Cheese & Shallots recipe allows for some flexibility in substitutions. You can swap goat cheese with feta for a tangy flavor or use dried cranberries if fresh ones aren’t available.
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the cubed butternut squash, cranberries, and sliced shallots.
- Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
- Spread the mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Roast in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the squash is tender and golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
- Transfer to a serving dish, sprinkle with crumbled goat cheese, and garnish with fresh thyme if desired. Serve warm.
For more delicious side dishes, check out our Creamy Chicken Casserole.
How to serve Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries, Goat Cheese & Shallots
This dish is perfect as a side for any main course or can even serve as a light vegetarian entree. Consider pairing it with grilled chicken or a hearty fish dish for a balanced meal, and serve it warm to maintain its comforting flavors. Each serving contains various vitamins from the squash and cranberries, making it not just delicious but nutritious as well. Additionally, you can find more tasty meal ideas by exploring our healthy meal prep recipes.
How to store
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. To reheat, you can use the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or microwave until heated through. For safe storage timing, see USDA FoodData Central.
Tips to make
- Use fresh thyme for a more aromatic garnish for your Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries, Goat Cheese & Shallots.
- Ensure that the butternut squash is cut into uniform pieces for even cooking.
- Add a splash of balsamic vinegar before serving for an extra flavor kick.
Variations
- For a vegan option, substitute goat cheese with a plant-based cheese alternative, and use maple syrup for sweetness.
- Incorporate nuts like pecans or walnuts for added crunch and flavor.
- Experiment with spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, aromatic twist on the classic recipe.
FAQs
Can I make Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries, Goat Cheese & Shallots ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time and roast it just before serving. This makes it perfect for gatherings.
What can I substitute for goat cheese in this recipe?
Feta cheese or a vegan cheese alternative work well as substitutes for goat cheese in Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries, Goat Cheese & Shallots.
How long does the Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries, Goat Cheese & Shallots last in the fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, this dish can last about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
You can explore more information about nutrition and recipes on sites like Healthline, which offer valuable insights into balanced eating.
Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries, Goat Cheese & Shallots is not only a treat for the taste buds but also an easy-to-make dish that can complement any meal. Don’t forget to share your cooking experiences in the comments below!
Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries, Goat Cheese & Shallots
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed Ensure even pieces for uniform cooking
- 1 cup fresh cranberries Substitute with dried cranberries if fresh aren't available
- 4 oz goat cheese, crumbled Can be substituted with feta for a tangy flavor
- 2 medium shallots, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme for garnish (optional) Use fresh thyme for a more aromatic garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the cubed butternut squash, cranberries, and sliced shallots.
- Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
- Spread the mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
Roasting
- Roast in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the squash is tender and golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
Serving
- Transfer to a serving dish, sprinkle with crumbled goat cheese, and garnish with fresh thyme if desired. Serve warm.