.png){kind=small}
Caramelized Butternut Squash with Feta, Walnuts, and Cranberry-Honey Glaze
This Caramelized Butternut Squash recipe is a perfect combination of sweet, savory, and nutty flavors. Roasted squash gets coated in a sticky cranberry-honey glaze, then topped with salty feta cheese and crunchy toasted walnuts. It’s ideal as a side dish for holidays, family dinners, or a cozy autumn meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The flavors in this dish complement each other beautifully. The natural sweetness of butternut squash enhances the tartness of cranberries, while honey adds richness. Feta adds a tangy, creamy element, and walnuts provide a satisfying crunch. Together, they create a dish that is as elegant as it is comforting.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this flavorful dish:
- 1 medium butternut squash (about 900 g / 2 lbs), peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons cranberry sauce (or chopped dried cranberries)
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- 100 g (3.5 oz) feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/3 cup (40 g) walnuts, toasted and roughly chopped
- Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to achieve perfectly caramelized squash with all the toppings.
Step 1 – Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Step 2 – Prepare the Squash
Place the cubed butternut squash in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt, pepper, and cinnamon (if using), and toss to coat evenly.
Step 3 – Roast the Squash
Spread the squash evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Roast for 25–30 minutes, turning halfway through, until the cubes are golden and tender.
Step 4 – Make the Cranberry-Honey Glaze
While the squash is roasting, mix honey and cranberry sauce in a small bowl. Stir until smooth. This glaze will coat the warm squash for a sticky, flavorful finish.
Step 5 – Glaze and Finish
Remove the squash from the oven and drizzle the cranberry-honey glaze over it. Toss gently to coat each cube. Sprinkle crumbled feta and toasted walnuts on top, and return to the oven for 5 more minutes to warm the toppings.
Step 6 – Garnish and Serve
Transfer the squash to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley for color and aroma. Serve warm as a stunning side dish or vegetarian main.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with roasted chicken, turkey, or pork. You can also serve it as part of a holiday buffet or as a standalone vegetarian entrée. Leftovers taste great cold in salads or reheated in the oven.
Final Thoughts
Caramelized Butternut Squash with Feta, Walnuts, and Cranberry-Honey Glaze is a balance of textures and flavors that will impress everyone at the table. Sweet, savory, creamy, and crunchy all in one bite—this dish is a must-try for autumn and winter dinners.
Q & A
Can I use dried cranberries instead of cranberry sauce?
Yes, you can rehydrate dried cranberries in warm water for 5–10 minutes, then use them in the glaze.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can roast the squash a day ahead, then reheat and glaze before serving. Add feta and walnuts just before serving to maintain texture.
Is this dish vegan?
To make it vegan, replace honey with maple syrup and omit feta or use a plant-based cheese alternative.
How long does it keep in the fridge?
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven to preserve texture.