Zesty Roasted Butternut Squash with Honey Lime Glaze

🕒 Prep: 10 min
🔥 Cook: 30 min
🍽 Serves: 4
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Welcome to a dish that brings a burst of flavor to your table — Zesty Roasted Butternut Squash with Honey Lime Glaze. This recipe transforms the humble butternut squash into a vibrant and tangy side dish that's perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients for Zesty Roasted Butternut Squash with Honey Lime Glaze

Butternut squash is the star of this recipe, providing a naturally sweet and nutty base. Olive oil helps the squash roast beautifully, adding a touch of richness. The honey brings sweetness, while lime juice and zest add tangy brightness. Sea salt and black pepper season the squash, and a hint of ground cumin adds warmth and depth. Finally, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro gives a burst of fresh flavor.

Tips & Tricks

  • If your squash is hard to peel, try microwaving it for a minute to soften the skin.
  • For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix.
  • Make sure the squash pieces are evenly sized to ensure even cooking.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with roasted chicken or a simple grilled fish. For a vegetarian meal, serve it with quinoa or couscous and a green salad for a balanced plate. It's also a great addition to a holiday spread, offering a fresh, vibrant flavor among heavier dishes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of squash?
Yes, you can substitute with acorn or kabocha squash, but cooking times may vary slightly.
How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
Is there a substitute for cilantro?
If you're not a fan of cilantro, try fresh parsley or mint for a different flavor profile.

Zesty Roasted Butternut Squash with Honey Lime Glaze Recipe Walkthrough

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is warming up, peel your butternut squash. This can be a bit tricky, so take your time. After peeling, cut it in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Once the squash is cleaned up, chop it into 1-inch cubes.

In a large bowl, combine the squash cubes with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon of sea salt, 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon of ground cumin. Toss everything together until the squash is well-coated — this ensures even roasting.

Next, spread the seasoned squash cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This helps with cleanup and prevents sticking. Slide the tray into your preheated oven and let the squash roast for about 25-30 minutes. Remember to turn the pieces halfway through to get that perfect golden brown on all sides.

While the squash is roasting, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon of honey, the juice of one lime, and the zest from the same lime. This mixture will be your sweet and tangy finishing touch.

Once the squash is tender and nicely browned, take it out of the oven. Transfer the roasted cubes to a serving dish and drizzle them with your honey lime glaze. Finish off with a sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro, and you're ready to serve.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Bright and tangy glaze elevates the natural sweetness of the squash.
  • Simple ingredients make it a breeze to prepare.
  • Perfect balance of sweet, savory, and citrus flavors.
  • Great as a side dish or a light vegetarian main.

Ingredients

1 medium butternut squash
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp honey
1 lime, juiced and zested
1/2 tsp sea salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp ground cumin
1 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Peel, seed, and cube the butternut squash into 1-inch pieces.
3. In a large bowl, toss the squash cubes with olive oil, sea salt, black pepper, and ground cumin until evenly coated.
4. Spread the squash in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through, until tender and lightly browned.
6. Meanwhile, in a small bowl, whisk together honey, lime juice, and lime zest.
7. Once the squash is done, transfer it to a serving dish and drizzle with the honey lime glaze.
8. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro before serving.

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