Ingredients and Weight:
- Butternut Squash: 2 medium (about 1.5-2 pounds each)
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: 3 tablespoons
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon (ground)
- Thyme: 1 tablespoon (fresh, chopped) or 1 teaspoon (dried)
- Brown Sugar: 2 tablespoons
Preparation Time:
- Preparation: 15 minutes
- Cooking: 45-55 minutes
- Total Time: About 1 hour
Difficulty Level: Level 3 (Moderate)
Preparation Method Steps:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Peel and seed the butternut squash, then cut into 1-inch cubes.
- In a large bowl, combine the cubed squash, olive oil, salt, pepper, thyme, and brown sugar. Toss to coat the squash evenly.
- Arrange the squash in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the squash is tender and starts to caramelize at the edges.
- Serve warm as a side dish or use as an ingredient in other dishes.
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: Each serving (about 1 cup cooked squash) provides approximately 150 calories.
- Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 3g
Dish Characteristics:
- This dish is a healthy and flavorful side that pairs well with meats or vegetarian dishes.
- The combination of sweet and savory flavors makes it appealing to a wide range of palates.
- The dish can be easily customized with different seasonings or herbs.
User Comments:
- "This was a great side dish! The flavors were perfect and the texture of the squash was just right."
- "I loved how easy this recipe was to follow. It made for a great weekend cooking project."
- "This dish was a hit with my family. The sweet and savory combination was unexpected and really tasty."
Special Precautions and Tips:
- Be sure to cut the squash into uniform cubes to ensure even cooking.
- Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences.
- For best results, use fresh butternut squash when possible. However, frozen squash can also be used.
- This dish pairs well with a variety of dishes, including meats, poultry, and vegetarian options.
