Roasting this honey chipotle butternut squash until everything caramelizes provides so much flavor and texture, you won’t believe what you’re eating!
Butternut squash is one of those side dishes of which many people do not have fond memories. Maybe you were forced to eat mashed and soggy squash as a kid or you’ve had a bad run-in with a knife while trying to cut it as an adult. If you can relate to any of these experiences, vegetarian or not, you’re probably not going to pick one up at the farmer’s market.
However, I would say that you’re missing out! From acorn to delicata to hubbard…there’s a whole world of squash out there full of nutrients and flavor dying to be released!
I am here to help you give squash a second chance. There is no reason to serve tasteless squash to your family and by incorporating a few easy tricks in the kitchen, you will be well on your way to hundreds of versatile new ways to serve this amazing vegetable.
How To Cut Butternut Squash
Total Time: 10 minutes
Slice the bottom and top of the squash
Using a large knife, slice the bottom and top ends off before using a sharp vegetable peeler to remove the skin. Some people will put the squash in the microwave for a few minutes to make the skin softer and easier to peel.
Cut the squash
The next tip to keep in mind is keeping the squash as sturdy as possible while cutting. To do this, stand the squash upright and cut it in half lengthwise down the middle. Feel free to use a mallet to help you get the knife through if it’s an especially sturdy squash.
Scoop out the seeds
Scoop out the seeds and lay the squash on your cutting board flat side down to make it more stable while
Cut again into cubes
Cut into slices, then strips, and then cubes.
Phew! Take a deep breath – you have now successfully cubed your butternut squash! Now, for the fun part.
How To Prepare Butternut Squash
Just as there are a lot of varieties of Winter squash, there are many ways to prepare them. Some of my family favorites include Lebanese Stuffed Kousa, Italian Sausage and Butternut Squash Farro Bake, and Roasted Butternut Squash Kale Sausage Pasta. Don’t even ask me to pick a favorite!
In this recipe, however, cubed squash get tossed with a honey, balsamic and chipotle sauce that caramelizes when roasted at a high temperature, giving the squash texture and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Why is squash good for you?
Let me count the ways! It’s loaded in B vitamins and Beta Carotene and a good source of potassium which is important for bone health. It’s an excellent source of dietary fiber and naturally low in calories making it a helpful part of any weight loss plan.
How do I cut butternut squash?
Butternut squashes are notoriously hard to prepare. The first thing you need is a very sharp, large knife. Slice the bottom and top ends off before using a sharp vegetable peeler to remove the skin. Cut the squash in half lengthwise and then into shorter slices before finally dicing into cubes.
Are there other ways to cook squash besides roasting?
Yes! Gone are the days of boil and mash. Simply cut in half and put in your pressure cooker or face-down with a bit of oil on a sheet pan in your oven. You can even puree to create roasted root vegetable soup or mac and cheese.
The trick to taking advantage of everything squash has to offer is all in the method of preparation. If you want to enhance flavor and enjoy eating all those vitamins and fiber, then preheat the oven and get roasting!
Your fork is waiting.
Honey Chipotle Glazed Butternut Squash
Ingredients
- 1 large butternut squash (peeled, seeded and cut in 1 inch pieces)
- 2 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (minced)
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoon honey
- ½ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Pre-heat oven to 450 degrees.
- Line baking sheet with tin foil and set aside.
- Meanwhile, wisk together vinegar, peppers, olive oil, honey and salt in a large bowl.
- Add squash cubes to honey mixture and stir well.
- Pour squash on to baking sheet and spread into an even layer.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes turning once.