Ingredients
Butternut Squash
- 5 cups peeled and cubed butternut squash (from 1 medium-large squash)
- 2 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/2 tsp. kosher salt
- 1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
Brown Butter Hazelnut Mixture
- 2 Tbsp. salted butter
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tsp. fresh thyme leaves
- 1/3 cup coarsely chopped hazelnuts
Garnish
- 2 Tbsp. pomegranate arils
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425ºF (220ºC) to prepare for roasting the butternut squash.
- Prepare Squash: Arrange the peeled and cubed butternut squash on a large rimmed baking sheet. Toss the cubes with extra-virgin olive oil, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper ensuring each piece is coated evenly.
- Roast Squash: Roast the butternut squash in the oven for 35 minutes, tossing the cubes halfway through after about 20 minutes to ensure even cooking and caramelization.
- Make Brown Butter Hazelnut Mixture: During the last 10 minutes of roasting, melt the salted butter in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the butter, swirling occasionally, for approximately 3 minutes or until the foam subsides, the milk solids turn golden-brown, and a nutty aroma develops. Stir in the coarsely chopped hazelnuts, minced garlic, and fresh thyme leaves, cooking for an additional 1 minute. If using unsalted butter, add a pinch of salt to taste. Remove from heat promptly to prevent burning.
- Assemble and Serve: Once the squash is roasted, transfer it to a serving platter or bowl. Spoon the warm brown butter hazelnut mixture evenly over the roasted butternut squash. Garnish the dish with fresh pomegranate arils for a pop of color and a burst of sweetness. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Use salted butter as specified for balanced seasoning; if substituting with unsalted butter, add salt to taste when browning.
- Toss the squash halfway through roasting for even browning and caramelization.
- Fresh thyme adds an aromatic depth, but dried thyme can be used as an alternative (use about 1/3 tsp.).
- Pomegranate arils add freshness and color; if unavailable, consider dried cranberries or skip garnish.
- Ensure the brown butter does not burn by watching carefully once the foam begins to subside.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian