Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries and Feta: A Delightful Autumn Dish

Looking for a delicious yet simple way to incorporate seasonal flavors into your meals? Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries and Feta is the answer! This dish combines the earthy sweetness of roasted squash, the tartness of cranberries, and the creamy feta to create a symphony of flavor that’ll have you wondering why you haven’t made it sooner. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a fancy side dish for Thanksgiving, this recipe is sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries and Feta

Let’s be honest: life gets busy. Between juggling work, family, and social obligations, finding time to cook can feel like a daunting task. That’s where this easy roasted butternut squash recipe comes into play. It’s not only quick to prepare, but it also creates flavors that are comforting, vibrant, and oh-so-perfect for fall. Plus, it’s loaded with nutrients, so you can feel good about serving it to your loved ones.

Whether you’re entertaining friends or simply trying to impress your family, this dish has you covered. My sister Patricia and I whip this up whenever we want to wow a crowd—with minimal effort! Just think of it as a cozy hug for your taste buds, wrapped up in a warm, inviting dish.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this flavorful masterpiece:

1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
1 cup fresh or dried cranberries
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
Optional: Fresh herbs for garnish (like parsley or thyme)

Steps to Deliciousness

Ready to fire up the oven? Let’s get this party started!

Preheat the Oven: You’ve got to set the stage! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure your butternut squash gets that lovely caramelization we all crave.
Prepare the Squash: In a large mixing bowl, toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, pepper, and cinnamon. You want every piece to be coated evenly. Think of it as giving the squash a nice little spa day!
Spread on a Baking Sheet: Transfer the seasoned squash onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure to spread it out so each piece gets that delicious, roasted finish.
Roast Away: Pop the baking sheet in the oven and roast for about 25-30 minutes, or until the squash is fork-tender and you see those beautiful golden edges. At about the 15-minute mark, give it a little stir to ensure even cooking.
Add Cranberries and Feta: Once the squash is ready, pull it out of the oven and sprinkle the cranberries and feta cheese on top. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar for that extra kick of flavor.
Final Roast: Place it back in the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes to let the cranberries plump up and the feta melt just slightly. You’ll want to enjoy the smell that wafts through your kitchen during this time—it’s pure heaven!
Garnish and Serve: Once done, sprinkle fresh herbs over the top for a pop of color and serve warm. Trust me, it’s hard to resist!

Cooking Tips

Choose a Good Squash: When selecting your butternut squash at the store, look for one that’s firm and heavy for its size. Avoid any that have soft spots or blemishes. You know what they say, “A good squash is a happy squash!”
Make it Ahead: This dish can be prepped a day in advance. Just roast the squash and keep the cranberries and feta separately until you’re ready to serve.
Play with Spices: Feel free to switch up the seasonings! A dash of nutmeg or even a sprinkle of chili powder can add a different flair if you’re feeling adventurous.

FAQs About Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries and Feta

Can I use frozen butternut squash?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain it beforehand. Frozen has the same delicious flavor but may need a little less roasting time.

How can I store leftovers?
Place any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. It’s delicious cold in salads too!

Is there a substitute for feta cheese?
If feta isn’t your thing, goat cheese works very well as a substitute. Just make sure to crumble it before adding!

Enjoying the Season Together

Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries and Feta isn’t just a side dish; it’s a celebration of autumn! This recipe has found its way into our family gatherings, often accompanied by stories shared around the table. Each bite is packed with flavors that remind us of cozy evenings and the warmth of home.

So go ahead, gather your loved ones, and whip up this delightful dish. I promise it will ignite smiles and create joyful moments at your table. As Anna always says, cooking is about creating memories just as much as it is about the food!

For more delicious recipes, check out our Easy Weeknight Dinners or Flavorful Fall Sides. Let’s keep cooking and creating lasting memories together!

Meta Description: Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries and Feta is a delightful, easy recipe perfect for any occasion. Quick, healthy, and delicious—a must-try!