Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly flavorful dinner recipe? Look no further! This Butternut Squash Mediterranean recipe is packed with vibrant flavors and nutritious ingredients, making it a perfect choice for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. It's surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks, and the delicious results will impress everyone at the table. This recipe is a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its best, offering a satisfying and healthy alternative to takeout.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium butternut squash (about 1.5 lbs), peeled, seeded, and cubed
- 1 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the butternut squash cooks evenly and becomes tender.
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Prepare the vegetables: Wash and thoroughly dry all vegetables. Peeling and cubing the butternut squash is easiest if you use a sharp knife. If you're short on time, you can buy pre-cut butternut squash.
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Toss the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cubed butternut squash, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and Kalamata olives. Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle with oregano, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss gently to coat everything evenly.
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Roast the vegetables: Spread the mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roasting allows the vegetables to caramelize, bringing out their natural sweetness.
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Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the butternut squash is tender and slightly browned. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes to prevent burning.
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Serve: Once cooked, transfer the roasted vegetables to a serving dish. Sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve warm.
Tips for the Best Butternut Squash Mediterranean Recipe:
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet: Make sure the vegetables are in a single layer to ensure even cooking and browning. If necessary, use two baking sheets.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve this delicious dish with some grilled chicken or fish for a more substantial meal. A side of quinoa or couscous also pairs perfectly.
Variations:
- Spicy Mediterranean: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy twist.
- Lemon Herb: Add the zest and juice of one lemon for a bright and citrusy flavor.
- Vegetarian/Vegan: Omit the feta cheese for a delicious vegan option.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: 15-20g
- Protein: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
- Fiber: 5-7g
This Butternut Squash Mediterranean recipe is a simple yet elegant dish that is sure to become a staple in your healthy meal rotation. It’s a perfect example of how delicious and easy healthy eating can be! Enjoy!