Roasted Butternut Squash with Candied Walnuts

Ever craved a side dish that’s both sweet and savory, ready in under an hour? This Roasted Butternut Squash with Candied Walnuts recipe is your answer! Silky smooth butternut squash meets crunchy, caramelized walnuts in a symphony of textures and flavors. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or impressing guests at your next gathering. Inspired by autumn harvests and simple, wholesome ingredients, let’s explore the magic of this vibrant dish!

Why You’ll Love This Roasted Butternut Squash Recipe

• Effortless Elegance: This dish elevates simple butternut squash into a gourmet experience.
• 30-Minute Prep: Minimal hands-on time makes it perfect for busy schedules.
• Layers of Flavor: The combination of sweet, salty, and warm spices is simply irresistible.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses readily available and affordable ingredients.
• Aroma Fills the Kitchen: The warm, inviting scent of roasting squash and candied walnuts is pure comfort.
• Rekindles Cozy Memories: This dish evokes feelings of warmth and nostalgia, perfect for family gatherings.
• Simple for Beginners: Easy enough for even novice cooks to master.
• Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults.

Ingredients Needed for Roasted Butternut Squash with Candied Walnuts

For the Roasted Butternut Squash:

• 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs or 900g), peeled, seeded, and cubed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ½ teaspoon sea salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg

Butternut Squash: Choose a squash that feels heavy for its size, with a firm, unblemished skin. Roasting brings out its natural sweetness.

Spices: For the best flavor, lightly toast your cinnamon and nutmeg in a dry pan over medium heat for a minute or two before adding them to the squash. This unlocks their aromatic oils, creating a warmer, richer flavor profile. You can buy your spices from your local market.

For the Candied Walnuts:

• 1 cup walnut halves (about 100g)
• ¼ cup maple syrup (60ml)
• 1 tablespoon coconut sugar (15g)
• ¼ teaspoon sea salt
• 1 tablespoon water (15ml)

Walnuts: Opt for fresh walnut halves; they should smell nutty and not bitter. You can also use other nuts like pecans or almonds for a different twist.

Maple Syrup: Use pure maple syrup for the best flavor. Alternatively, you can use agave nectar or honey.

Coconut Sugar: Coconut sugar adds a subtle caramel flavor. If you don’t have it, you can substitute with brown sugar or regular granulated sugar.

Sourcing Tip: Find the freshest walnuts and highest-quality maple syrup at your local farmers’ market for an even more delightful dish!

Fun Fact: Butternut squash is a great source of vitamins A and C, making this dish both delicious and nutritious!

Pro Tip: Toast the walnuts lightly in a dry skillet before candying them for enhanced nuttiness.

Coconut Sugar Note: If you don’t have coconut sugar on hand, brown sugar works beautifully as a substitute, lending a rich molasses flavor.

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Essential Equipment List for Roasting and Candying

• Large Bowl: For tossing the butternut squash with spices.
• Baking Sheet: A large baking sheet ensures even roasting.
• Parchment Paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
• Medium Skillet: For creating the candied walnuts.
• Measuring Spoons and Cups: Accurate measurements are key!

Optional: A silicone spatula is great for stirring the candied walnuts without scratching your skillet.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 4-6
• Difficulty: Easy

Scale up the recipe for a holiday gathering, or halve it for a cozy meal for two.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.

Step 2: Season the Squash

In a large bowl, toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, sea salt, black pepper, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Make sure each piece is evenly coated with the fragrant spices.

Step 3: Roast the Squash

Spread the seasoned squash in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the squash is tender and slightly caramelized. The edges should be lightly browned.

Pro Tip: Roasting the squash on high heat helps to caramelize the natural sugars, resulting in a deeper, richer flavor.

Step 4: Prepare the Candied Walnuts

While the squash is roasting, prepare the candied walnuts. In a medium skillet, combine walnut halves, maple syrup, coconut sugar, sea salt, and water.

Step 5: Cook the Walnuts

Cook the walnut mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly. Continue stirring until the syrup thickens and coats the walnuts, about 5-7 minutes. Be careful not to burn the walnuts; keep a close eye and adjust the heat if necessary.

Troubleshooting Tip: If the syrup starts to crystallize, add a tablespoon of water and continue stirring.

Step 6: Cool the Walnuts

Remove the candied walnuts from the heat and spread them out on a piece of parchment paper to cool and harden. They will become delightfully crunchy as they cool.

Step 7: Combine and Serve

Once the butternut squash is roasted and the walnuts are candied, combine them in a serving bowl. Serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy the sweet and savory symphony!

Tips for Success with Roasted Butternut Squash

• Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet: This ensures the squash roasts evenly and caramelizes properly. Use two baking sheets if necessary.
• Stir the walnuts constantly: This prevents them from burning and ensures even coating.
• Use fresh spices: Freshly ground spices will give you the best flavor.
• Adjust sweetness to taste: Add more or less maple syrup to the candied walnuts depending on your preference.
• Cool the walnuts completely: This allows them to harden and become extra crunchy.

Variations & Substitutions for Butternut Squash Dish

• Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the squash for a subtle kick.
• Other Nuts: Substitute pecans or almonds for the walnuts.
• Sweetener Swap: Use honey or agave nectar instead of maple syrup.
• Herbaceous Twist: Add fresh rosemary or thyme to the roasting squash.
• Vegan Option: Ensure your maple syrup is vegan-friendly, as some brands may use bone char in the refining process.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings with Roasted Butternut Squash with Candied Walnuts

• Pair it with a crisp salad featuring fall greens like spinach or arugula.
• Serve alongside roasted chicken or turkey for a complete meal.
• Enjoy as a side dish at your next holiday gathering.
• Complement the dish with a refreshing sparkling cider.

Elevate the presentation by drizzling a balsamic glaze over the dish just before serving.

Health Benefits of Butternut Squash and Walnuts

This Roasted Butternut Squash with Candied Walnuts dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Butternut squash is rich in vitamins A and C, providing antioxidants and immune support. Walnuts are a great source of healthy fats, protein, and fiber, contributing to heart health and satiety. Enjoy this dish as a guilt-free way to boost your nutrient intake! In moderation, the sugars in this dish can give you that tasty boost you’re looking for.

Storage & Reheating Tips for Leftovers

• Storage: Store leftover roasted butternut squash and candied walnuts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the squash in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. Reheat the walnuts separately in a dry skillet over low heat for a few minutes to re-crisp them.
• Freezing: While not ideal, you can freeze the roasted butternut squash. Let it cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. The candied walnuts are best enjoyed fresh.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Avoid Soggy Roasted Butternut Squash?

Make sure to spread the squash in a single layer on the baking sheet to allow for proper air circulation and caramelization. Avoid overcrowding the pan.

Can I Use Frozen Butternut Squash?

Yes, you can use frozen butternut squash. Thaw it completely and pat it dry before roasting to remove excess moisture.

What If My Walnuts Burn While Candying?

Keep a close eye on the walnuts while they are cooking, and stir them constantly. If they start to burn, remove the skillet from the heat immediately and transfer the walnuts to a parchment-lined baking sheet to cool.

Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can roast the butternut squash and candy the walnuts ahead of time. Store them separately and combine them just before serving.

Can I Use a Different Type of Sugar?

Yes, you can substitute brown sugar or granulated sugar for the coconut sugar in the candied walnuts. Keep in mind that the flavor will be slightly different.

How Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?

This recipe is already naturally vegan! Just ensure that you use pure maple syrup that hasn’t been processed using animal products.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 320
• Total Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 50mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 38g
• Dietary Fiber: 6g
• Total Sugars: 18g
• Protein: 6g

Note: Exact nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients used.

More Delectable Dishes to Explore

Craving more delightful recipes? Try these autumn-inspired dishes!

• YOU MIGHT LOVE: German Chocolate Poke Cake – A decadent twist on a classic dessert.
• CHECK OUT: Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Recipe – A quick and easy family favorite.
• DISCOVER: Easy Cabbage Casserole – A comforting and hearty side dish.

Conclusion

This Roasted Butternut Squash with Candied Walnuts is fast, flavorful, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whip it up tonight and tag us with your masterpiece! Share this recipe with your friends and family who would love it! Join our vibrant community on Facebook and Pinterest for daily recipe inspiration, cooking tips, and more tasty ideas! Happy cooking!

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