Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving something fresh, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This squash and string beans recipe is your answer. It's a perfect blend of healthy ingredients, vibrant colors, and a taste that will leave you wanting more. This dish is a fantastic example of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals, perfect for busy weeknights. It's a testament to how delicious homemade cooking can be, even with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1 lb fresh string beans, trimmed
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
- Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions:
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Prep the Vegetables: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats, peel, seed, and cube the butternut squash. Trim the ends off the string beans. Chop the onion and mince the garlic. This preparation is key to making this recipe a quick dinner option.
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Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet (cast iron works great!) over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Roast the Vegetables: Add the cubed butternut squash and string beans to the skillet. Toss everything together to coat with the olive oil and onion mixture. Sprinkle with thyme, salt, and pepper. Pour in the vegetable broth.
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Oven Time: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the squash is tender and slightly caramelized, and the string beans are bright green and tender-crisp. Stir halfway through to ensure even cooking.
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Serve and Enjoy: Remove the skillet from the oven and let it cool slightly. Serve immediately. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. This simple dish is a perfect example of delicious dishes created with easy recipes.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Herby goodness: Experiment with other herbs like rosemary or sage.
- Add protein: Toss in some cooked chicken or chickpeas for a more substantial meal.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of Greek yogurt or crème fraîche before serving.
- One-pan wonder: This recipe is designed for easy cleanup – everything cooks in one pan!
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Protein: 5-7 grams
- Fat: 10-12 grams
- Carbohydrates: 25-30 grams
- Fiber: 5-7 grams
This squash and string beans recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and easy recipes. It's a perfect example of how simple, homemade cooking can be both delicious and nutritious. Enjoy this best recipe – and let us know how you like it!