Thanksgiving Maple Pecan Roast Butternut Squash

Thanksgiving is a time to gather with loved ones and share delicious meals that warm the heart and soul. One dish that brings the essence of the season to the table is the Thanksgiving Maple Pecan Roast Butternut Squash. This recipe features the natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash, complemented by the rich aroma of maple syrup and the delightful crunch of pecans. It’s easy to prepare, making it the perfect side dish to enhance your holiday feast.

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

• Calories per serving: 220
• Protein: 3 grams
• Carbohydrates: 34 grams
• Fat: 10 grams
• Fiber: 5 grams
• Sugar: 6 grams
• Sodium: 230 mg

Why Make This Thanksgiving Maple Pecan Roast Butternut Squash

This dish embodies the quintessential flavors of autumn, making it a delightful addition to your Thanksgiving table. The tender, caramelized squash, enhanced by the natural sweetness of maple syrup, offers a perfect balance of flavors. The pecans add a satisfying crunch while fulfilling the need for a comforting side. Not only is this dish visually stunning, with its vibrant hues, but it also pairs beautifully with turkey, stuffing, and cranberry sauce, making it a versatile choice for holiday gatherings.

How to Make Thanksgiving Maple Pecan Roast Butternut Squash

Ingredients:

• 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary or thyme (optional)

Directions:

• Step 1: Preheating the Oven

  Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). A hot oven is essential for roasting the squash to perfection, allowing it to caramelize beautifully.

• Step 2: Preparing the Squash

  In a large bowl, toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, pepper, and cinnamon until well coated. The olive oil will create a nice glaze, and the spices will infuse the squash with warmth and depth.

• Step 3: Cooking the Squash

  Spread the squash on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the squash is tender and slightly caramelized. The aroma wafting from the oven will be irresistible!

• Step 4: Finishing Touches

  In the last 5 minutes of roasting, drizzle the maple syrup over the squash and sprinkle with chopped pecans. Return to the oven and roast for an additional 5 minutes to let the pecans toast slightly and the syrup glaze the squash beautifully. Remove from the oven, add fresh herbs if desired, and serve warm.

How to Serve Thanksgiving Maple Pecan Roast Butternut Squash

This dish is best served warm and can be presented as a stunning centerpiece on your Thanksgiving table. Pair it with roasted turkey, stuffing, or a fresh green salad. To elevate its appeal, drizzle with extra maple syrup just before serving, and garnish with additional fresh herbs.

How to Store Thanksgiving Maple Pecan Roast Butternut Squash

If you have leftovers, store the butternut squash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also enjoy it cold, tossed into a salad for a refreshing lunch.

Expert Tips for Perfect Thanksgiving Maple Pecan Roast Butternut Squash

• Choosing the Squash: Look for firm butternut squashes with smooth skin. A heavier squash indicates a higher sugar content, which enhances the flavor.
• Even Cooking: Cut the squash into uniform cubes to ensure even roasting.
• Maple Substitutes: If you don’t have maple syrup, honey or agave syrup works well, although the flavor will differ slightly.
• Herb Enhancements: Fresh herbs elevate the dish. Experiment with sage or thyme, both of which complement the earthy flavors beautifully.

Delicious Variations

• For a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the seasoning mix.
• Substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds for a different nutty flavor and texture.
• Add cooked quinoa or cranberries to the mix for added texture and a burst of flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use frozen butternut squash?
  Yes, but you may need to adjust the cooking time. Frozen squash often cooks faster, so monitor it closely to avoid overcooking.

• Is this dish vegan?
  Yes, all the ingredients in this recipe are plant-based, making it a wonderful vegan side dish.

• Can I prepare this ahead of time?
  You can prepare the squash and seasonings a day in advance and roast it on the day you need it for maximum freshness.

• What other dishes can I serve with this?
  Thanksgiving Maple Pecan Roast Butternut Squash pairs wonderfully with turkey, ham, or any roasted meat. It also complements veggie mains like stuffed mushrooms or lentil loaf.

• How do I know when the squash is done roasting?
  The squash should be fork-tender and caramelized on the edges. If it easily breaks apart, it’s ready to come out of the oven.

Conclusion

Thanksgiving Maple Pecan Roast Butternut Squash is a delightful addition to any holiday meal, combining ease of preparation with stunning flavor and presentation. Its warm tones and rich taste will not only please the palate but also warm the heart. Gather your family around the table, share stories, and enjoy this delicious dish that embodies the spirit of the season. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe is sure to impress. Give it a try, and watch it become a cherished tradition in your Thanksgiving celebrations!

Thanksgiving Maple Pecan Roast Butternut Squash

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• Author: lydia
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegan

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Description

A delightful side dish featuring roasted butternut squash, maple syrup, and crunchy pecans, perfect for Thanksgiving.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary or thyme (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, pepper, and cinnamon until well coated.
3. Spread the squash on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through.
4. In the last 5 minutes, drizzle with maple syrup and sprinkle with chopped pecans, and roast for an additional 5 minutes.
5. Remove from oven, add fresh herbs if desired, and serve warm.

Notes

Pairs beautifully with turkey and stuffing. Can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Roasting
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 230mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 0mg