Spiced Roasted Butternut Squash with Pecans and Cranberries

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Everyday Culinary Delights👩‍🍳

Posted on 4 November 2024

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Imagine a side dish that perfectly balances sweet, savory, and a touch of spice, bringing warmth and comfort to your table. That’s exactly what spiced roasted butternut squash with pecans and cranberries delivers. This recipe takes the natural sweetness of butternut squash, enhances it with a blend of spices, and adds a satisfying crunch from toasted pecans and a pop of tartness from dried cranberries. It’s the ultimate fall and winter dish, ideal for family dinners, holiday feasts, or any time you’re craving a little coziness on your plate.

Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned chef, this dish is simple to prepare and guaranteed to impress. Let’s dive into the details of this irresistibly spiced side dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe has everything you want in a side dish:

Bold Flavors: The spices create a warm, aromatic profile that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the squash.
Variety of Textures: Soft, caramelized squash is perfectly complemented by crunchy pecans and chewy cranberries.
Visually Stunning: The golden squash, red cranberries, and toasted pecans make for a beautiful presentation.
Quick and Easy: With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have this dish on the table in no time.
Versatile: It pairs well with a variety of main courses, from roasted chicken to vegetarian mains.

Ingredients for Spiced Roasted Butternut Squash with Pecans and Cranberries

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delightful dish:

Ingredient	Quantity
Butternut squash, peeled and cubed	1 large (or 2 small, about 4-5 cups)
Butter, melted	3 tablespoons
Brown sugar	2 ½ tablespoons
Cinnamon	1 ½ teaspoons
Salt	½ teaspoon
Ground black pepper	½ teaspoon
Cayenne pepper (optional)	¼ teaspoon
Pecans, roughly chopped	½ cup
Dried cranberries	⅓ cup

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Squash

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.

2. Mix the Spiced Butter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, pepper, and cayenne (if using).
Stir until all the ingredients are well incorporated.

3. Coat the Squash

Add the cubed butternut squash to the bowl.
Toss the squash in the spiced butter mixture until every piece is evenly coated.

4. Roast the Squash

Spread the seasoned squash cubes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure the pieces aren’t overcrowded, as this ensures even roasting.
Roast in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure caramelization on all sides.

5. Add Pecans and Cranberries

During the last 5 minutes of roasting, sprinkle the chopped pecans over the squash on the baking sheet. This step lightly toasts the pecans, bringing out their nutty flavor.
Once removed from the oven, immediately scatter the dried cranberries over the warm squash. The heat softens the cranberries, making them even more flavorful.

6. Serve Warm

Transfer the roasted squash to a serving dish. Gently mix to evenly distribute the pecans and cranberries.
Serve warm and enjoy the sweet, savory, and spiced flavors that make this dish truly special.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

Perfect Balance of Sweet and Savory: The sweetness of the butternut squash is enhanced by brown sugar and balanced with savory spices and a hint of heat from cayenne.
Simple Yet Sophisticated: With minimal effort, you create a dish that looks and tastes like it belongs on a holiday table.
Customizable: Adjust the spice levels, add more pecans for extra crunch, or sprinkle in some fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for added complexity.

Tips for the Best Spiced Roasted Butternut Squash

Use Fresh Butternut Squash: Choose a squash with firm, smooth skin and no blemishes for the best flavor and texture.
Cut Uniformly: Ensure the squash cubes are the same size for even cooking. Aim for bite-sized pieces.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Give the squash space to roast, not steam. Spread the cubes in a single layer.
Toast the Pecans: Adding the pecans in the last few minutes of roasting prevents them from burning while enhancing their nutty flavor.
Soften the Cranberries: Tossing the dried cranberries over the warm squash helps them plump up slightly, making them more enjoyable to eat.

Nutritional Benefits of This Dish

This spiced roasted butternut squash dish isn’t just delicious—it’s also packed with nutrients:

Butternut Squash: A rich source of vitamins A and C, butternut squash supports eye health and boosts your immune system. It’s also high in fiber, aiding digestion.
Pecans: These nuts are packed with healthy fats, protein, and antioxidants, making them a heart-healthy addition.
Cranberries: Dried cranberries provide a natural sweetness along with antioxidants and a touch of fiber.
Cinnamon: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, cinnamon adds both flavor and health benefits to this dish.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is versatile and works as a side dish for many meals. Here are a few pairing ideas:

Thanksgiving Dinner: Serve alongside turkey, stuffing, and mashed potatoes for a complete holiday meal.
Pork or Chicken: The sweetness of the squash pairs wonderfully with roasted pork or grilled chicken.
Vegetarian Spread: Include it as part of a vegetarian feast with roasted Brussels sprouts, quinoa salad, or lentil stew.
Holiday Brunch: Add it to a festive brunch menu alongside frittatas or savory scones.

FAQs About Spiced Roasted Butternut Squash with Pecans and Cranberries

1. Can I use frozen butternut squash?
Yes, you can use frozen squash, but be sure to thaw and pat it dry before roasting to avoid excess moisture.

2. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) to maintain the texture.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Roast the squash and toast the pecans in advance. Reheat the squash in the oven, then add the pecans and cranberries just before serving.

4. What can I substitute for pecans?
If you don’t have pecans, try using walnuts, almonds, or even pumpkin seeds for a similar crunch.

5. Can I omit the brown sugar?
Yes, you can skip the brown sugar or substitute it with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup for a refined sugar-free option.

6. How can I make this dish vegan?
Simply replace the butter with a plant-based alternative, such as vegan butter or olive oil.

Why You Should Make This Dish Today

This spiced roasted butternut squash with pecans and cranberries isn’t just a side dish—it’s a celebration of flavor, texture, and the comfort of home-cooked meals. It’s perfect for cozy family dinners, special holiday gatherings, or anytime you want to elevate your menu. With its beautiful presentation and unbeatable flavor, this dish is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection.

Call to Action

Ready to try this mouthwatering side dish? Gather your ingredients and whip up a batch of spiced roasted butternut squash with pecans and cranberries today. Whether it’s for a holiday meal or a simple weeknight dinner, this recipe is guaranteed to impress your family and friends. Don’t forget to drizzle it with extra butter or add a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an added touch of flavor!