Indulge in the comforting flavors of fall with this delightful brown sugar butternut squash with cranberries recipe.
Perfect as a side dish for holiday gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner, this dish combines the natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash with tart cranberries and a hint of warm spices.
With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a dish that’s both delicious and nutritious, showcasing the best of the season’s produce.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- Butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed – 1 medium
- Fresh cranberries – 1 cup
- Brown sugar – 1/4 cup
- Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
- Ground cinnamon – 1 teaspoon
- Salt – 1/2 teaspoon
- Optional: chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch
Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowl
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Serving dish
Instructions
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Prepare Squash and Cranberries:
In a mixing bowl, toss the cubed butternut squash and fresh cranberries with olive oil, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and salt until evenly coated.
Spread on Baking Sheet:
Spread the coated squash and cranberries in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
Roast:
Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the squash is tender and caramelized, stirring halfway through.
Add Optional Nuts:
If using chopped pecans or walnuts, sprinkle them over the roasted squash and cranberries during the last 5 minutes of baking.
Serve:
Once roasted, transfer the butternut squash and cranberries to a serving dish and serve hot as a delicious side dish or a festive addition to any meal.
Nutritional Facts
Servings: 4
Calories per serving: Approximately 180
Total Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 300mg
Total Carbohydrates: 34g
Dietary Fiber: 6g
Total Sugars: 18g
Protein: 2g
Health Benefits
The “Brown Sugar Butternut Squash With Cranberries Recipe” offers several health benefits, particularly due to its nutritious ingredients:
Butternut Squash:
Butternut squash is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
It is an excellent source of vitamin A in the form of beta-carotene, which supports eye health, immune function, and skin health.
Butternut squash also provides vitamin C, vitamin E, potassium, and fiber, which promote heart health, digestion, and overall well-being.
Cranberries:
Cranberries are packed with antioxidants, particularly flavonoids and polyphenols, which help reduce inflammation, protect against oxidative stress, and support immune function.
Cranberries are also low in calories and high in fiber, vitamins C and E, and manganese.
They promote urinary tract health, improve digestion, and may lower the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer.
Brown Sugar:
While brown sugar is a sweetener and should be used in moderation, it adds sweetness and flavor to the dish.
Compared to refined white sugar, brown sugar contains small amounts of minerals like calcium, potassium, iron, and magnesium.
However, it is still high in calories and should be enjoyed sparingly as part of a balanced diet.
Spices:
Spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger are often used in this recipe to enhance flavor without the need for excess sugar or unhealthy fats.
These spices also offer potential health benefits, including improved blood sugar control, reduced inflammation, and enhanced digestion.
Fiber Content:
Both butternut squash and cranberries are high in fiber, which promotes satiety, aids in digestion, and helps regulate blood sugar levels.
Fiber also supports heart health by reducing cholesterol levels and promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria.
Micronutrients:
The combination of ingredients in this recipe provides a variety of essential vitamins and minerals necessary for overall health and well-being.
These nutrients support various bodily functions, including immune function, bone health, and energy metabolism.
Overall, the Brown Sugar Butternut Squash With Cranberries Recipe offers a balance of flavor and nutrition, making it a satisfying and healthier alternative to many side dishes.
Enjoying this dish in moderation as part of a balanced diet can help you reap the potential health benefits of its wholesome ingredients.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen cranberries, but keep in mind that they may release more moisture during roasting, resulting in a slightly different texture.
2. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the squash and cranberries ahead of time and roast them just before serving for convenience.
3. Can I substitute another type of winter squash for butternut squash?
Certainly! You can use other varieties of winter squash such as acorn squash or kabocha squash, adjusting the cooking time as needed.
4. Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan-friendly. Simply ensure that the brown sugar used is certified vegan, and omit the optional nuts if desired.
5. How can I customize the flavors of this dish?
Feel free to experiment with different spices such as nutmeg, ginger, or cloves to add depth and complexity to the dish, according to your taste preferences.