Butternut Squash with Brown Butter Hazelnuts

Ever craved a dish that’s both comforting and elegant? This Butternut Squash with Brown Butter Hazelnuts is a delightful symphony of sweet and nutty flavors, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or an impressive holiday side. Inspired by classic autumnal flavors, this recipe brings a touch of rustic charm to your table. Let’s unlock the magic of this dish!

Why You’ll Love This Butternut Squash Recipe

This recipe is a winner because it offers:

• Effortless Elegance: Impress your guests with minimal effort.
• Quick Prep: Ready in under an hour.
• Nutty & Sweet Flavor: A delightful combination that tantalizes the taste buds.
• Healthy and Delicious: Packed with vitamins and fiber.
• Versatile: Perfect as a side or a light vegetarian main course.
• Seasonal Delight: Celebrates the best of autumn’s harvest.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, accessible ingredients.

Unlike some butternut squash recipes, this one avoids heavy sauces, letting the natural sweetness of the squash shine through. The aroma alone will fill your kitchen with warmth and joy!

Ingredients Needed for Butternut Squash with Brown Butter Hazelnuts

Here’s what you’ll need to create this flavorful dish:

For the Butternut Squash:

• 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded, and cubed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Selection Tip: Choose a butternut squash that feels heavy for its size and has a deep beige color. A long neck indicates more squash and fewer seeds!

For the Brown Butter Hazelnuts:

• 4 tablespoons butter (56g)
• 1/2 cup hazelnuts, roughly chopped (65g)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

Sourcing Tip: Fresh parsley from your local farmer’s market will add the brightest flavor. Hazelnuts can be found in the baking aisle of most grocery stores.

Flavor Boost: Toasting the hazelnuts lightly in a dry skillet before adding them to the brown butter enhances their nutty aroma.

Remember to use high-quality butter for the best flavor in your brown butter sauce. It truly makes a difference!

YOU MIGHT LOVE: Roasted Butternut Squash with Candied Walnuts – For another delightful take on butternut squash!

Essential Equipment List

Make sure you have these tools on hand:

• Baking sheet: For roasting the butternut squash evenly.
• Large bowl: To toss the squash with oil and seasonings.
• Skillet: For browning the butter and toasting the hazelnuts.
• Serving dish: To present your beautiful creation.

Optional: A vegetable peeler will make quick work of peeling the butternut squash.

Having the right equipment can simplify the cooking process. A good skillet ensures even browning for the butter.

Recipe Details

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• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Difficulty: Easy

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps for perfect butternut squash with brown butter hazelnuts:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the squash roasts evenly and develops a slightly caramelized exterior.

Step 2: Prepare the Butternut Squash

In a large bowl, toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Make sure each piece is coated evenly for optimal roasting.

Step 3: Roast the Squash

Spread the seasoned squash in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until tender and slightly caramelized.

Pro Tip: Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. Overcrowding will steam the squash rather than roast it. Use two baking sheets if necessary.

Step 4: Brown the Butter

While the squash is roasting, melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Continue cooking until the butter turns brown and smells nutty, about 5-7 minutes. Watch it carefully to avoid burning!

Step 5: Toast the Hazelnuts

Add the roughly chopped hazelnuts to the browned butter and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until lightly toasted and fragrant. Stir constantly to prevent burning.

Step 6: Finish the Sauce

Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the lemon juice and chopped fresh parsley. The lemon juice adds a bright acidity that balances the richness of the brown butter.

Step 7: Assemble and Serve

Transfer the roasted butternut squash to a serving dish. Pour the brown butter hazelnut mixture over the squash and serve immediately. Enjoy!

CHECK OUT: Maple Pecan Roasted Sweet Potatoes – Another fantastic roasted vegetable dish!

Tips for Success

• Don’t burn the butter: Keep a close eye on the butter as it browns, as it can quickly go from nutty to burnt.
• Toast the hazelnuts: Toasting the hazelnuts brings out their flavor and adds a delightful crunch.
• Use fresh parsley: Fresh parsley adds a vibrant, herbaceous note to the dish.
• Season generously: Don’t be afraid to season the squash and the brown butter sauce generously with salt and pepper.
• Roast until tender: Ensure the butternut squash is fully cooked and tender before serving.

Advanced Technique: Deglaze the skillet with a splash of vegetable broth after browning the butter for extra depth of flavor. Simmer for a minute, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.

Variations & Substitutions

• Different nuts: Try using almonds, pecans, or walnuts instead of hazelnuts.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the brown butter sauce for a touch of heat.
• Vegan option: Use plant-based butter and a drizzle of maple syrup instead of honey.

Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of ground nutmeg or cinnamon to the squash before roasting for a warm, autumnal flavor.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings with Butternut Squash with Brown Butter Hazelnuts

This dish pairs beautifully with:

• Roasted chicken or turkey
• Quinoa or farro salad
• A simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette

Serve this butternut squash dish as a vibrant side during your Thanksgiving or holiday feasts. Its flavors complement traditional holiday dishes perfectly.

Health Benefits

Butternut squash is packed with:

• Vitamin A: Important for vision and immune function.
• Vitamin C: An antioxidant that supports overall health.
• Fiber: Aids digestion and promotes a feeling of fullness.
• Potassium: Helps regulate blood pressure.

This dish is a delicious way to incorporate more nutrient-rich vegetables into your diet. Enjoy the health benefits of this seasonal favorite!

Storage & Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover butternut squash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
• Freezing: Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the squash may change.

Prevent Spoilage: Cool the butternut squash completely before storing it to prevent condensation and spoilage.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I peel butternut squash easily?

Microwave the whole squash for 2-3 minutes to soften the skin before peeling. A sharp vegetable peeler works best.

Can I use frozen butternut squash?

Yes, you can use frozen butternut squash. Just thaw it completely and pat it dry before roasting.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can roast the squash ahead of time and make the brown butter sauce just before serving.

What if my brown butter burns?

Start over with fresh butter. Burnt butter will make the dish taste bitter.

Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Yes, you can add other roasted vegetables such as Brussels sprouts or sweet potatoes.

Nutritional Information

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 250
• Total Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Cholesterol: 30mg
• Sodium: 50mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 20g
• Dietary Fiber: 4g
• Sugars: 7g
• Protein: 4g

Please note that nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.

More Delicious Dishes to Explore

Craving more comforting and flavorful recipes? Check out these tasty options:

• Creamy Vegan Tomato White Bean Stew – A hearty and satisfying vegan stew perfect for a chilly evening.
• Roasted Butternut Squash with Candied Walnuts – Another delightful way to enjoy butternut squash with a sweet and crunchy twist.
• Apple Salad – A refreshing and flavorful salad that’s perfect as a side or a light meal.

Conclusion

This Butternut Squash with Brown Butter Hazelnuts is a fast, flavorful, and elegant dish that’s sure to impress. Whip it up tonight and elevate your dinner experience! Let us know how it goes—comment below!

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