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Cinnamon Pecan Roasted Butternut Squash

Cinnamon Pecan Roasted Butternut Squash
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Cinnamon Pecan Roasted Butternut Squash is a flavorful and nutritious dish featuring tender roasted butternut squash cubes enhanced with warm cinnamon, toasted pecans, and a touch of natural sweetness from maple syrup or honey. Perfect as a cozy side or a festive centerpiece, this dish balances rich, nutty textures with the vibrant sweetness of the squash and subtle herbal accents.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 medium butternut squash (about 2–3 pounds), peeled, seeded, and cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (preferably freshly ground)
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Add-ons

  • 1/2 cup pecans, toasted
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the butternut squash roasts evenly, developing that beautiful caramelization we’re after.
  2. Prepare the Butternut Squash: Peel the squash and cut it in half lengthwise. Scoop out the seeds, then chop the flesh into 1-inch cubes for uniform roasting and fast cooking.
  3. Toss Ingredients Together: In a large bowl, combine the cubed squash with olive oil, ground cinnamon, maple syrup (or honey), salt, and pepper. Toss gently until every piece is coated well.
  4. Roast the Squash: Spread the squash cubes evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure they’re not crowded. Roast for about 25 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning.
  5. Add Pecans and Finish Roasting: After 25 minutes, sprinkle the toasted pecans and fresh thyme (if using) over the squash. Roast for another 5-10 minutes until the pecans are fragrant and slightly toasted.
  6. Serve Warm: Remove from the oven and transfer to a serving dish. Let it cool slightly to bring out all the flavors before digging in.

Notes

  • Cut the squash into uniform pieces to ensure consistent cooking and prevent some chunks from burning while others remain undercooked.
  • Toast the pecans in a dry pan before roasting to amplify their nuttiness and preserve crunchiness.
  • Use freshly ground cinnamon for a more intense and aromatic flavor.
  • Avoid overcrowding the pan to allow steam to escape and help crisp edges form.
  • Adjust sweetness after roasting by adding a drizzle of maple syrup if desired.

Nutrition

Keywords: butternut squash, roasted squash, cinnamon, pecans, maple syrup, healthy side dish, fall recipe, gluten free, vegetarian, vegan option

Find it online: https://gourmetglazing.com/cinnamon-pecan-roasted-butternut-squash/