If you're on the hunt for a comforting and simple fall dish, look no further than this Traditional Baked Butternut Squash. It's a celebration of autumn's best flavors, combining the natural sweetness of squash with a hint of maple and cinnamon.
Butternut squash is the star of the show, offering a creamy texture and a slightly nutty flavor. Olive oil helps to caramelize the squash, giving it a lovely golden color. Salt and black pepper enhance the natural flavors without overpowering them. Maple syrup adds a gentle sweetness that pairs beautifully with the earthy squash, while ground cinnamon provides a warm, aromatic touch that makes the dish feel festive and cozy.
This baked butternut squash is a versatile side dish that pairs well with roasted chicken, pork chops, or grilled fish. For a vegetarian meal, serve it alongside quinoa or a hearty grain salad. You can also toss it with arugula and goat cheese for a delicious warm salad.
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that once your squash is ready, you can pop it in without any delay. While the oven heats up, grab your butternut squash and a sturdy peeler. Carefully peel the squash's tough outer skin. Once peeled, slice it in half lengthwise, and scoop out the seeds with a spoon. It can be a bit slippery, so take your time.
With the squash halved and cleaned, proceed to cut it into even cubes, roughly an inch in size. This helps them cook evenly. Once cubed, toss them into a large bowl. Drizzle the olive oil over the cubes, then sprinkle in the salt and pepper. Use your hands or a large spoon to mix everything until the squash is well-coated.
Next, spread the seasoned squash cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Space them out a bit so they roast rather than steam. Drizzle the maple syrup over the top, and finish with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon. This combo will caramelize in the oven, creating a delicious glaze.
Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and let it bake for 25-30 minutes. You're looking for the squash to be tender and slightly caramelized. Once done, remove from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving. This brief cooling period helps the flavors meld even more.
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