Imagine a dish that transforms simple ingredients into a culinary masterpiece that will make your taste buds dance with joy! This roasted butternut squash recipe is not just another side dish—it's a flavor explosion that promises to elevate your meal from ordinary to extraordinary. With golden-caramelized edges, aromatic sage, and a perfect balance of sweetness and savory notes, this recipe will become your new go-to comfort food that looks like it came straight from a gourmet restaurant kitchen.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 large onion, diced
- 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C), ensuring the rack is positioned in the middle of the oven for even roasting.
- Prepare the butternut squash by washing thoroughly, then carefully peel the skin using a sharp vegetable peeler. Cut the squash in half lengthwise, remove the seeds with a spoon, and then cube the flesh into roughly 1-inch uniform pieces.
- Dice the large onion into similar-sized pieces, approximately 1/2-inch chunks, to ensure even cooking and consistent texture.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed butternut squash and diced onions. Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle with freshly chopped sage, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
- Toss the ingredients gently but thoroughly to ensure all pieces are evenly coated with oil and seasonings.
- Spread the seasoned squash and onion mixture in a single layer on a large rimmed baking sheet, ensuring pieces are not overcrowded to promote proper roasting and caramelization.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 25-30 minutes, stirring once halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.
- Remove from oven when squash is tender and edges are golden brown and slightly caramelized. The vegetables should be soft when pierced with a fork.
- Let the roasted butternut squash and onions rest for 2-3 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld and temperatures to slightly lower.
- Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with additional fresh sage leaves if desired. Serve hot as a side dish or light vegetarian main course.
Tips
- Choose a fresh, firm butternut squash with smooth, unblemished skin for the best flavor and texture.
- Use a sharp vegetable peeler and a sturdy cutting board to safely cube the squash into uniform pieces.
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet—give the vegetables space to roast, not steam, which ensures beautiful caramelization.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika or a touch of maple syrup before roasting.
- If you want a more intense sage flavor, try rubbing the sage between your fingers before adding to release its essential oils.
- Use a rimmed baking sheet to catch any delicious roasting juices and prevent oven mess.
- Let the dish rest for a few minutes after roasting to allow flavors to meld and temperatures to stabilize.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 110kcal
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
