The Golden Sauteed Butternut Delight is a warm, savory dish that perfectly captures the essence of fall. With just a handful of ingredients, this side brings out the natural sweetness of butternut squash and transforms it into something truly special.
Butternut squash is the star here, offering a nutty sweetness that caramelizes beautifully when sautéed. Olive oil and unsalted butter create a flavorful base for cooking, with the butter adding a creamy richness. Salt and ground black pepper are all you need to enhance the squash's flavor. The earthy aroma of fresh thyme leaves adds a fragrant herbal note, while Parmesan cheese gives a savory finish.
This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken or pork tenderloin. You could also serve it over a bed of arugula or spinach for a heartier salad option. If you're entertaining, it can shine as part of a larger spread with other roasted vegetables and grains.
To start, grab a large skillet and place it over medium heat. Add the olive oil and butter together, letting them melt and mingle. Once the butter has melted and the oil is shimmering, toss in the butternut squash cubes. Stir them around to make sure each piece is nicely coated with the buttery goodness.
Next, sprinkle the salt and ground black pepper over the squash. Stir occasionally as you let the squash cook for about 10 minutes. You'll want them to start softening and developing a bit of color. After that, add the fresh thyme leaves. Continue sautéing for another 5 to 7 minutes until the squash is tender and has a golden hue.
Once your squash is perfectly cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle the top with grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt slightly over the warm squash. Serve it up immediately for a delightful side dish that complements any meal.