Harvest-Time Honey Thyme Butternut Squash 🍂🍯

This delightful recipe celebrates the rich flavors of fall with a sweet and savory twist. The natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash is beautifully balanced by the aromatic notes of fresh thyme and a drizzle of honey. Perfect as a side dish for any harvest feast or as a wholesome vegetarian main course!

Ingredients

For the squash

• 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
• 3 tablespoons honey

For garnish

• Additional fresh thyme sprigs
• Crumbled feta cheese (optional)
• Chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easier cleanup.

• In a large bowl, combine the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, pepper, and thyme. Toss until the squash is well-coated with the oil and seasonings.

🔪 Be sure to cut the squash into even-sized cubes to ensure even cooking.

• Spread the squash in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the squash is tender and caramelized, stirring halfway through for even browning.

• Once removed from the oven, drizzle the honey over the hot roasted squash and gently toss to combine.

🍯 The honey will melt slightly and create a delicious glaze, enhancing the flavor of the squash.

• Transfer the roasted squash to a serving platter and garnish with additional thyme sprigs, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped nuts if desired for a crunch.

Variations

• Maple Twist: Substitute honey with pure maple syrup for a different kind of sweetness. It pairs beautifully with the earthy squash flavor. 🍁
• Spicy Kick: Add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or chili flakes before roasting to give the dish a warm, spicy touch. 🌶️
• Nut-Free: Omit the nuts and consider adding toasted sunflower seeds for a nut-free crunch option.
• Vegan: Leave out the feta or substitute it with vegan cheese to keep it dairy-free.

🥗 Serve warm as a comforting side dish, or chill and toss it into salads for a unique fall flavor boost!

This Harvest-Time Honey Thyme Butternut Squash is sure to impress your guests and elevate any meal. Enjoy the fall bounty! 🍂✨