As the golden hues of autumn envelop us, there’s something heartwarming about gathering loved ones around a table adorned with the rich flavors and colors of the season. Our Maple Roasted Butternut Squash with Pecans is a sublime dish that blends the sweetness of maple with the earthy warmth of butternut squash, topped with crunchy pecans. It’s the perfect recipe for a festive fall feast that brings family and friends closer together.
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
|---|---|
| Cook Time | 45 minutes |
| Total Time | 1 hour |
| Servings | 6 |
| Skill Level | Easy |
Ingredients
- 1 large butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup pecan halves
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the cubed butternut squash, olive oil, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and black pepper. Toss until the squash is evenly coated.
- Spread the squash mixture in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven and sprinkle the pecan halves over the squash.
- Return the baking sheet to the oven and continue roasting for an additional 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender and caramelized, and the pecans are toasted.
- Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Helpful Tips
- For a twist, try adding a sprinkle of dried cranberries for a burst of tartness.
- If you’re not fond of pecans, walnuts or almonds are great substitutes.
- To save time, you can buy pre-cut butternut squash from the store.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm.
Pairings
This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted turkey or baked ham for a holiday feast. For a vegetarian option, serve alongside a hearty quinoa salad or a bowl of creamy pumpkin soup. A glass of spiced apple cider or a light Pinot Noir would be perfect to complete the meal.
We hope this Maple Roasted Butternut Squash with Pecans becomes a staple at your festive gatherings. Share your creations with us using #ZynahzRecipes or tag us on Instagram. We’d love to hear your feedback, so visit us at Zynahz.com. Don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for more delicious recipes and follow us on social media for updates and inspiration. Happy cooking!
