Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 medium (2-3 pounds) butternut squash
Seasonings
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon cracked black pepper, or ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning, or Herbs de Provence
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Optional
- 4 tablespoons butter
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease a large baking sheet to prevent the squash from sticking.
- Prepare the Butternut Squash: Peel the butternut squash using a regular vegetable peeler. Slice it lengthwise down the middle and scoop out the seeds and innards with a spoon. Chop the flesh into 1-inch pieces and spread them evenly in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Season the Squash: Drizzle the olive oil over the chopped squash. Toss gently using spoons or your hands to ensure all pieces are evenly coated. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, dried Italian seasoning (or Herbs de Provence), and garlic powder, then toss again to distribute the seasonings thoroughly.
- Bake the Squash: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the squash is tender and begins to brown at the edges, indicating caramelization. Remove from the oven and serve immediately if not using butter.
- Optional Browned Butter Finish: For extra richness, melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Bring it to a simmer and cook until the butter changes from pale yellow to a dark golden color, giving it a nutty aroma. Remove from heat and transfer to a bowl.
- Serve: Spoon the browned butter evenly over the roasted squash pieces and serve immediately while warm to enjoy the enhanced flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute olive oil with avocado or vegetable oil if preferred.
- Be careful not to overcook the squash; it should be tender but not mushy.
- Browned butter adds a rich, nutty flavor, but it’s optional for a lighter dish.
- If you don’t have dried Italian seasoning, a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme works well.
- For an extra touch, sprinkle some Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian