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Roasted Butternut Squash with Garlic and Lemon

This roasted butternut squash dish transforms the humble vegetable into a caramelized, smoky, and tangy side or main. The oven roasting enhances its natural sweetness, while garlic butter and lemon brighten the final flavor, resulting in a tender, golden-brown dish with a slight crisp on the edges.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 kg butternut squash peeled and cubed into 2-cm pieces
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for tossing the squash
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika for flavoring
  • 3 cloves garlic minced for sautéing
  • 1 tablespoon butter for garlic butter
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice brightens the dish
  • 2 tablespoons fresh herbs chopped parsley, cilantro, or chives
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup optional for a sweet glaze

Equipment

  • Sharp vegetable peeler
  • Chef's knife
  • Baking sheet lined with parchment
  • Skillet or small pan
  • Tongs or spatula

Method
 

  1. Peel the butternut squash using a sharp vegetable peeler, then cut it into even 2-cm cubes.
  2. Place the cubed squash in a bowl and toss with olive oil, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt until evenly coated.
  3. Spread the coated squash evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring the pieces are not overlapping.
  4. Roast in a preheated oven at 200°C (390°F) for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the edges are caramelized and the squash is tender.
  5. While the squash roasts, melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat and add the minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and golden, about 1-2 minutes.
  6. Once the squash is roasted and still warm, transfer it to a serving bowl and drizzle with the garlic butter, tossing gently to coat.
  7. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the squash and sprinkle with chopped herbs. For a touch of sweetness, drizzle with honey or maple syrup if desired.
  8. Give everything a final gentle toss to combine flavors, then serve warm as a flavorful side or main dish.

Notes

For extra smoky flavor, sprinkle a little more smoked paprika before roasting. You can also add a dash of cayenne for heat or sprinkle with grated Parmesan for added richness.