Honey Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries Pecans and Feta – Honey roasted butternut squash with cranberries, pecans, and feta is a culinary masterpiece that dances on your palate like a joyful tango. Imagine the sweet aroma of caramelized squash mingling with tart cranberries, crunchy pecans, and creamy feta cheese—it’s like Thanksgiving has thrown a surprise party in your mouth! Each bite is a delightful explosion of flavor and texture that will make you wonder why you didn’t make this sooner. pecan pie cookies for dessert.
Let me take you back to last fall when I decided to impress my friends with my cooking skills (spoiler alert: they were unimpressed with my previous attempts at gourmet mac ‘n’ cheese). Armed with confidence and an apron that proudly declared “Kiss the Cook,” I whipped up this honey roasted butternut squash dish. The moment it hit the table, you could practically hear angels singing. It’s perfect as a side dish for holiday dinners or just because you want to feel fancy on a Tuesday night.
Why You'll Love This Honey Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries Pecans and Feta
- This amazing Honey Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries Pecans and Feta offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.
Ingredients for Honey Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries Pecans and Feta
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Honey Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries Pecans and Feta: butternut squash and sage orzo.
- Butternut Squash: Choose a firm, heavy squash free from blemishes for optimal sweetness.
- Honey: A nice local honey adds depth; feel free to use maple syrup for a vegan option.
- Dried Cranberries: Use unsweetened cranberries for a tangy contrast to the sweetness of the honey.
- Pecans: Toasted pecans bring in an irresistible crunch; if you’re feeling adventurous, try walnuts instead!
- Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta adds creaminess; substitute goat cheese if desired.
- Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil will elevate the flavors; don’t skimp on quality here.
- Cinnamon: A dash of cinnamon brings warmth; skip it if you’re not into spice.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to balance out all those flavors.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Honey Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries Pecans and Feta
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Honey Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries Pecans and Feta: maple dijon roasted vegetables.
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial as it ensures that your butternut squash roasts beautifully without turning into mush.
Step 2: Prepare the Butternut Squash
Peel, seed, and cube your butternut squash into bite-sized pieces. Try not to gnaw on it during this process—though it’s tempting! Place the cubes in a large bowl.
Step 3: Add Flavorful Ingredients
Drizzle olive oil over your squash cubes. Add honey, salt, pepper, cinnamon, dried cranberries, and chopped pecans. Toss everything together until well coated—think of it as giving your veggies a spa day!
Step 4: Roast Away
Spread the mixture onto a baking sheet in an even layer. Roast in your preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until tender and caramelized, stirring halfway through for maximum goodness.
Step 5: Finish with Feta
Remove from the oven and sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over everything while still warm so it melts slightly into this savory-sweet concoction.
Step 6: Serve It Up
Transfer your colorful masterpiece into a serving dish. Invite everyone to gather around because this honey roasted butternut squash is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven—it smells heavenly!
Now that you’ve mastered this delightful recipe for honey roasted butternut squash with cranberries pecans and feta, get ready for compliments from everyone at the dinner table! For more inspiration, check out this Pecan Pie Bars recipe.
You Must Know About Honey Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries Pecans and Feta
- This amazing Honey Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries Pecans and Feta offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.
Perfecting Honey Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries Pecans and Feta Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. Peel, seed, and cube the butternut squash, then toss it in olive oil and honey. Roast until tender, adding cranberries and pecans halfway through for a delightful crunch.
Add Your Touch to Honey Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries Pecans and Feta
Feel free to swap out cranberries for raisins or dried cherries. Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth, or try goat cheese instead of feta for a creamier texture.
Storing & Reheating Honey Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries Pecans and Feta
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave or warm them in the oven until heated through.
Chef's Helpful Tips for Honey Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries Pecans and Feta
- Use fresh butternut squash for the best flavor and texture.
- Make sure to coat evenly with oil to prevent sticking.
- Don’t rush the roasting; caramelization brings out incredible sweetness.
Sometimes I whip up this dish as a last-minute side, only to find my friends requesting seconds—who knew butternut squash could steal the show?
FAQs About Honey Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries Pecans and Feta
What is Honey Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries Pecans and Feta?
Honey Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries Pecans and Feta is a delightful autumn dish that beautifully combines sweet, savory, and tangy flavors. The butternut squash is roasted until tender and caramelized, then tossed with tart cranberries, crunchy pecans, and creamy feta cheese. creamy broccoli cheddar orzo This dish not only highlights seasonal ingredients but also serves as a perfect side for holiday gatherings or a cozy family dinner. Its vibrant colors and textures make it an appealing addition to any meal.
How do you prepare Honey Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries Pecans and Feta?
To prepare this delicious dish, start by peeling and cubing the butternut squash. Toss the cubes in olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper before roasting them at 400°F (200°C) for about 25-30 minutes until golden brown. In the final few minutes of roasting, add the cranberries to the pan. Once removed from the oven, mix in toasted pecans and crumbled feta cheese for added flavor. Serve warm to enjoy its full taste profile.
Can I customize Honey Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries Pecans and Feta?
Absolutely! You can customize this dish by adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth. If you prefer different nuts, walnuts or almonds can be great substitutes for pecans. Additionally, feel free to swap feta cheese with goat cheese for a tangier flavor. You can also add greens like spinach or kale to make it a complete meal. The recipe is versatile enough to adapt according to your taste preferences.
What are some serving suggestions for Honey Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries Pecans and Feta?
Honey Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries Pecans and Feta pairs wonderfully with various main dishes. It complements roasted chicken or turkey exceptionally well during festive occasions. For a vegetarian option, serve it alongside quinoa or wild rice for a hearty meal. This dish also works beautifully as part of a salad or bowl topped with leafy greens, making it versatile enough for lunch or dinner.
Conclusion for Honey Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries Pecans and Feta
In summary, Honey Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries Pecans and Feta is a delightful combination of flavors that celebrates seasonal produce. Its preparation involves simple steps that lead to a visually appealing dish perfect for any occasion. With options to customize based on personal preferences, this recipe offers versatility while retaining its essential charm. Enjoy this tasty side or main dish at your next gathering or family meal!
Honey Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries, Pecans, and Feta
Honey Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries, Pecans, and Feta is a vibrant and delicious side dish that elegantly blends sweet and savory flavors. The caramelized butternut squash pairs beautifully with tart cranberries, crunchy pecans, and creamy feta cheese, making it an irresistible addition to your holiday table or a cozy dinner at home. This visually stunning dish is easy to prepare and can be customized based on what you have on hand.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 pounds), peeled and cubed
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup for vegan)
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, honey, salt, pepper, and cinnamon. Toss until well coated.
- Spread the mixture evenly on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes or until tender and caramelized. Stir halfway through cooking.
- In the final five minutes of roasting, add dried cranberries and pecans to the baking sheet.
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle crumbled feta over the warm squash before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 20mg






