Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a healthy, flavorful meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This salmon with roasted butternut squash recipe is the perfect answer. It's a delicious combination of sweet and savory, packed with nutrients, and ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a new family favorite. This easy recipe is a great example of healthy meals that don't compromise on taste.
Ingredients:
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For the Butternut Squash:
- 1 medium butternut squash (about 1.5 lbs), peeled, seeded, and cubed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
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For the Salmon:
- 2 (6-ounce) salmon fillets, skin on or off
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Roasting the Butternut Squash:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- In a large bowl, toss the butternut squash cubes with olive oil, salt, pepper, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Make sure the squash is evenly coated.
- Spread the squash in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized, flipping halfway through.
Cooking the Salmon:
- While the squash is roasting, prepare the salmon. Pat the fillets dry with paper towels. This helps them crisp up nicely.
- Season the salmon with salt and pepper.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
- Once the oil is hot, add the salmon fillets to the skillet, skin-side down (if using skin-on fillets). Cook for 3-4 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden brown.
- Flip the salmon and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
- Remove the skillet from the heat and drizzle the salmon with lemon juice.
Serving:
- Serve the roasted butternut squash alongside the pan-seared salmon.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor: Add a sprinkle of maple syrup to the butternut squash before roasting.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the butternut squash for a little heat.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve with a side of quinoa or a simple green salad for a well-rounded and delicious meal.
- Different vegetables: Feel free to experiment with other fall vegetables like Brussels sprouts or sweet potatoes alongside the butternut squash.
- Sheet pan meal: For even easier cleanup, roast the salmon alongside the butternut squash on the same baking sheet. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly, as the salmon will cook faster.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 25-30g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This salmon and butternut squash recipe is a perfect example of delicious and healthy food recipes that are quick and easy to prepare. Enjoy this easy and satisfying meal! This quick dinner idea is perfect for busy weeknights, and it's a great way to enjoy homemade cooking at its best. It’s one of the best recipes for a healthy and flavorful meal.