Roasted Butternut Squash with Sage and Brown Butter
Butternut squash is a fall favorite for its sweet, nutty flavor and versatility. It’s packed with vitamins and nutrients, especially vitamin A, fiber, and potassium. This roasted butternut squash recipe brings out its natural sweetness, pairing it with the richness of brown butter and the earthiness of sage for a delightful dish that’s both savory and slightly sweet. Whether you’re looking for a comforting side dish or a base for salads or grain bowls, this simple but delicious recipe fits the bill.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium butternut squash (about 2-3 pounds)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 6-8 fresh sage leaves
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional)
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- A handful of chopped walnuts or pecans (optional for garnish)
Directions:
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the squash: Start by peeling the butternut squash. The skin can be tough, so use a sharp vegetable peeler or a chef’s knife to carefully remove it. Once peeled, slice off the ends and cut the squash in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and stringy pulp. Set aside the seeds if you want to roast them separately as a crunchy snack.
- Cut into cubes: After the squash is cleaned, cut it into roughly 1-inch cubes. Try to make the pieces uniform in size for even roasting.
- Season and roast: Place the cubed squash on the prepared baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Toss the cubes so they’re evenly coated, then sprinkle with salt and pepper. Spread the squash out in a single layer to allow proper roasting, ensuring the pieces don’t overlap. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through, until the squash is tender and lightly browned around the edges.
- Brown the butter: While the squash is roasting, make the brown butter. In a small saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, continue to cook, swirling the pan occasionally. The butter will begin to foam as the milk solids separate and turn golden brown. This is what gives the butter a deep, nutty flavor. Be careful not to let it burn. After about 3-5 minutes, the butter should have a rich, golden color and a warm, nutty aroma.
- Add the sage: Once the butter is browned, add the fresh sage leaves to the pan. The leaves will sizzle as they fry in the butter, becoming crispy. This infuses the butter with a herbal flavor, balancing the sweetness of the squash. Fry the sage for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, then remove it from the heat.
- Optional add-ins: If you prefer a slightly sweeter dish, stir in 1 tablespoon of maple syrup and a pinch of ground cinnamon to the brown butter mixture. This will add a warm sweetness and enhance the fall flavors.
- Combine and serve: Once the squash is done roasting, transfer it to a serving dish. Drizzle the brown butter and crispy sage leaves over the roasted squash, tossing gently to coat the cubes. If desired, garnish with chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor. Serve hot as a side dish.
Tips and Variations:
- Peeling made easier: If peeling butternut squash is difficult, you can soften it by microwaving the whole squash for 2-3 minutes. This helps loosen the skin and makes peeling easier.
- Add cheese: For extra richness, sprinkle the roasted butternut squash with crumbled goat cheese or grated Parmesan just before serving. The creaminess of the cheese pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the squash and the earthiness of the sage.
- Make it a main: To turn this side dish into a hearty main course, serve it over a bed of quinoa or farro. You can also add protein such as roasted chicken or chickpeas to make it more substantial. The combination of grains, squash, and protein makes for a nutritious and filling meal.
- Roast with other vegetables: Mix things up by roasting the squash with other fall vegetables like sweet potatoes, carrots, or Brussels sprouts. Simply adjust the roasting time for each vegetable as needed, and you’ll have a vibrant, nutrient-packed medley.
- Use leftovers creatively: Leftover roasted butternut squash is incredibly versatile. Toss it into salads, add it to grain bowls, blend it into soups, or mash it with butter and cream for a creamy side dish. You can even use it as a pizza topping for a unique twist.
Nutritional Benefits:
Butternut squash is not only delicious but also nutrient-dense. It’s an excellent source of vitamin A, providing more than 450% of the daily recommended intake per cup. This vitamin is crucial for maintaining healthy vision, skin, and immune function. Squash is also rich in fiber, which supports digestive health and helps keep you feeling full longer. Additionally, it offers a good amount of potassium, important for heart health and regulating blood pressure.
The sage used in this recipe adds more than just flavor; it’s known for its antioxidant properties and has been traditionally used to support cognitive health. Brown butter, while indulgent, adds depth and richness to the dish in moderation.
Serving Suggestions:
- Thanksgiving or holiday meal: Roasted butternut squash is a perfect accompaniment to turkey, ham, or other hearty meats, making it a great addition to holiday feasts.
- Everyday dinners: Serve this alongside roasted chicken, pork tenderloin, or as part of a vegetarian meal with grains and legumes.
- Salad booster: Toss leftover roasted butternut squash into a salad with arugula, toasted nuts, dried cranberries, and a tangy vinaigrette for a bright, fall-inspired salad.
Conclusion:
Roasted butternut squash with sage and brown butter is a simple yet elegant dish that highlights the natural sweetness of the squash while adding complexity with the nutty brown butter and crisp sage leaves. It’s easy to prepare and versatile enough for a weeknight dinner or a special holiday meal. The flavors are warm and comforting, perfect for fall and winter days, and the added nutritional benefits make it a wholesome choice for any occasion.