Savory Caramelized Butternut Squash Delight
Indulge in the rich, sweet flavor of roasted butternut squash, drizzled with brown sugar and a hint of cinnamon. This dish is not only delectable but also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect addition to your healthy meals. Paired wonderfully with spiced Middle Eastern rice or yogurt, it’s versatile enough to complement a variety of dishes. Enjoy this simple yet elegant recipe that brings warmth and comfort to your table. Perfect for sharing, this dish is great for both family meals and special occasions.
2
Servings
N/A
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
butternut squash
1/2 (deseeded and washed)
dark brown sugar
1 tablespoon (for sprinkling)
canola oil
2 tablespoons (divided, for greasing and drizzling)
water
as needed (for baking)
cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon (optional, for sprinkling)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
Prepare the butternut squash by deseeding and washing it, keeping the peel on for extra nutrients.
3
Using 1 tablespoon of canola oil, grease a 9" x 13" baking pan thoroughly.
4
Place the butternut squash half face down in the prepared pan. Carefully pour water into the pan until it reaches about 1 1/2 inches from the bottom.
5
Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 50 minutes, or until the squash is tender when pierced with a fork.
6
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and carefully drain any excess water.
7
Flip the squash halves over with care, enhancing presentation and flavor absorption. Sprinkle the dark brown sugar over the tops, and if desired, add cinnamon for an aromatic touch.
8
Drizzle the remaining 1 tablespoon of canola oil over the squash.
9
Return the squash to the oven and bake for an additional 7 minutes, or until the sugar is melted and bubbly.
10
If time permits, let the squash cool before peeling for easier serving. For a delightful serving twist, prepare your chosen rice recipe and place the peeled squash pieces on top, slicing them for sharing.
11
Serve directly from the platter, allowing guests to add yogurt to their individual portions for a creamy finish.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the name of this recipe?
The recipe is called Savory Caramelized Butternut Squash Delight.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes 2 servings.
What temperature should the oven be preheated to?
The oven should be preheated to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
Should I peel the butternut squash before baking?
No, keep the peel on during baking to retain extra nutrients; you can peel it after it has cooled for easier serving.
How much canola oil is required for this recipe?
You will need a total of 2 tablespoons of canola oil, divided for greasing and drizzling.
What type of sugar is used for caramelization?
The recipe uses 1 tablespoon of dark brown sugar.
Is cinnamon a required ingredient?
No, cinnamon is optional but recommended for an aromatic touch.
How much water should I add to the baking pan?
Pour enough water into the pan until it reaches about 1.5 inches from the bottom.
What size baking pan is recommended?
A 9-inch by 13-inch baking pan is recommended.
How long is the initial baking period?
The squash should bake for approximately 50 minutes during the first stage.
How do I know when the squash is finished baking initially?
The squash is done when it is tender enough to be easily pierced with a fork.
What should I do after the first 50 minutes of baking?
Remove the pan from the oven and carefully drain any excess water.
Why should I flip the squash halves over before adding sugar?
Flipping them enhances the presentation and helps with flavor absorption.
When do I add the dark brown sugar and cinnamon?
Sprinkle them over the tops of the squash after flipping them and draining the water.
How much additional baking time is needed after adding the sugar?
Bake the squash for an additional 7 minutes.
How do I know the sugar has finished caramelizing?
The sugar should be melted and bubbly.
What is a recommended side dish for this recipe?
It pairs wonderfully with spiced Middle Eastern rice or yogurt.
How should the squash be prepared before cooking?
The butternut squash should be deseeded and washed, but the peel should remain on.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly.
Can I use this dish for special occasions?
Yes, its elegant presentation makes it great for both family meals and special occasions.
How should guests serve the yogurt?
Guests can add yogurt to their individual portions for a creamy finish.
What is the best way to slice the squash for sharing?
After peeling the cooled squash, place the pieces on top of rice and slice them for sharing.
What flavor profile does this dish have?
It features a rich, sweet flavor from the roasting and caramelization with aromatic cinnamon notes.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 5 ingredients: butternut squash, dark brown sugar, canola oil, water, and cinnamon.
Can I use light brown sugar instead of dark?
While dark brown sugar is specified for its depth, light brown sugar can be used as a substitute.
Is this recipe considered healthy?
Yes, it is described as a healthy recipe packed with nutrients.
Should the squash be placed face up or face down initially?
Place the butternut squash half face down in the prepared pan initially.
What is used to grease the baking pan?
1 tablespoon of canola oil is used to grease the pan thoroughly.
Can this dish be served warm?
Yes, it is typically served warm, especially when paired with rice.
Is this recipe easy to follow?
Yes, it is tagged as an 'easy cooking' recipe.