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To make this tasty dish, you'll need a few simple items. Here’s your shopping list: - 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes - 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup - 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon - 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste These ingredients create a sweet and warm flavor that makes your squash shine. You can add some extra crunch or flavor. Here are some options: - 1/4 cup pecans, roughly chopped (for added crunch) - Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for brightness) If you like nuts or fresh herbs, these will enhance your dish. This dish is not only delicious but also healthy. Here are some quick facts: - Butternut squash is high in vitamins A and C. - Maple syrup adds natural sweetness without refined sugar. - Pecan nuts provide healthy fats and protein. Enjoy this savory side as part of a balanced meal. For the full recipe, check out the steps above. To start, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature helps the squash roast evenly. Next, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the squash from sticking and make clean-up easier. In a large bowl, add the cubed butternut squash. Pour in 3 tablespoons of maple syrup and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon and 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Mix everything well. Make sure each cube is coated in that sweet and spicy blend. Spread the squash in a single layer on your baking sheet. Don’t overcrowd the pieces; this ensures they roast well. Place the baking sheet in the oven. Roast for about 25-30 minutes. Halfway through, stir the squash gently to help it cook evenly. Look for a golden-brown color and fork-tender texture. If you want to add pecans, sprinkle them on in the last 5 minutes. This gives them a nice crunch. Once done, remove the squash from the oven and let it cool slightly. You can find the full recipe above. To make maple glazed butternut squash shine, balance sweetness and spice. The maple syrup adds a rich sweetness, while ground cinnamon and nutmeg bring warmth. Adjust the maple syrup amount if you prefer less sweetness. A pinch of salt brightens the flavors. Experiment with adding a sprinkle of cayenne for a spicy kick. Sweetness paired with spice creates a delightful contrast that excites the palate. Roasting the butternut squash is the best method for this dish. Roasting caramelizes the sugars, giving it a sweet, nutty flavor. Other methods, like boiling, can make the squash mushy and watery. Roasting also allows for even cooking and browning. Use high heat to achieve a crispy outside and tender inside. This method enhances the natural flavor of the squash. Serving matters just as much as taste. Place your maple glazed butternut squash in a rustic wooden bowl. This adds a cozy touch to your dining table. Sprinkle extra pecans and parsley on top for color and crunch. You can also serve it alongside roasted meats or as a stand-alone dish. A bright orange squash with green parsley looks great on any plate. Consider using seasonal decor to enhance the dish's autumn vibe. For more details, refer to the Full Recipe. {{image_4}} You can change the flavor by using different sweeteners. Honey is a great swap for maple syrup. It adds its own unique taste. Brown sugar will also work well. It gives a rich, caramel flavor. Try agave syrup for a lighter touch. Each sweetener can create a different twist on the dish. - Herbs and Spices to Enhance Flavor You can play with spices to make this dish your own. Add cayenne pepper for a kick. It pairs nicely with the sweetness of the squash. You can also try fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary. They add a fresh note that brightens the dish. A pinch of cumin can bring warmth and depth as well. - Gluten-Free and Vegan Options This recipe is naturally gluten-free, so you’re already set! To keep it vegan, use pure maple syrup and olive oil. They are both plant-based and safe for all diets. If you want a nut-free version, skip the pecans or replace them with sunflower seeds. This keeps the crunch while avoiding allergens. For the full recipe, check the complete guide to Maple Glazed Butternut Squash. Store leftover maple glazed butternut squash in an airtight container. Glass containers work best, but plastic ones are fine too. Keep the squash in the fridge. It will stay fresh for about 3 to 5 days. Make sure it cools down before you seal the container. This helps keep moisture out and flavor in. To reheat, you have a few options. The best way is to use the oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Spread the squash on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 to 15 minutes. This keeps it crispy and tasty. You can also use a microwave. Place the squash in a microwave-safe dish. Heat it in short bursts of 30 seconds. Stir in between to warm it evenly. Freezing is a great option too! First, allow the squash to cool completely. Then, place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Try to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. To thaw, move it to the fridge overnight. Reheat as mentioned above for the best taste and texture. For the full recipe, check out the Maple Glazed Butternut Squash section! Maple glazed butternut squash is a sweet and savory side dish. It pairs well with many meals. The blend of maple syrup and spices makes it special. You can serve it at family dinners or holiday feasts. This dish is not just tasty; it is also colorful and bright. When selecting butternut squash, look for a firm and smooth skin. Choose one that feels heavy for its size. A good squash should have a deep tan color. Avoid any with soft spots or blemishes. A fresh squash has a sweet aroma, hinting at its flavor. Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time. Cook the squash and let it cool completely. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. This way, you can enjoy it later without losing flavor. - Tips for Meal Prep and Serving Later: - Reheat the squash in the oven for best results. - Add a little maple syrup while reheating to boost the flavor. - Garnish with fresh parsley just before serving for a nice touch. For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions above. This blog post covered how to make maple glazed butternut squash. You learned about main ingredients and some optional add-ins. We explored step-by-step instructions for preparation and roasting. Tips helped you perfect the flavors and presentation. In closing, this dish is simple and tasty. Whether you cook for yourself or guests, this recipe will impress. Enjoy experimenting with flavor variations and storage tips. Now, get ready to serve a delightful meal!

Maple Glazed Butternut Squash

Indulge in the flavors of fall with this delicious maple glazed butternut squash recipe! Simple to prepare and bursting with sweet and spicy notes, this dish is perfect for any gathering. Learn how to roast butternut squash to perfection, topped with crunchy pecans and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a beautiful presentation. Click through to explore this easy recipe and bring autumn to your table!
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Ingredients
  

1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes

3 tablespoons pure maple syrup

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

1/4 cup pecans, roughly chopped (optional for added crunch)

Fresh parsley, finely chopped for garnish (optional for brightness)

Instructions
 

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) to create an ideal roasting environment.

    In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed butternut squash with the maple syrup, olive oil, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and a generous sprinkle of salt and pepper. Toss the mixture until every piece of squash is well-coated with the sweet and spicy dressing.

      Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper. Spread the coated squash cubes in a single, even layer on the sheet, ensuring that they’re not overcrowded for optimal roasting.

        Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the squash for about 25-30 minutes. Halfway through the cooking time, give the squash a gentle stir to ensure even caramelization and tenderness. You’ll know it’s ready when the squash is fork-tender and has developed a slight golden-brown caramelization.

          If you’re adding pecans, wait until the last 5 minutes of roasting. Scatter the roughly chopped pecans over the squash and return the sheet to the oven to toast them lightly, enhancing their flavor and crunch.

            Once the butternut squash is perfectly roasted, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes.

              Carefully transfer the maple glazed butternut squash to a serving dish. If desired, finish off with a sprinkle of fresh parsley to add a touch of color and freshness before serving.

                Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes | Servings: 4

                  - Presentation Tips: Consider serving the squash in a rustic wooden bowl for a warm, autumnal feel. You may sprinkle some extra pecans and parsley on top for a beautiful finish.