Sweet & Tender Baked Butternut Squash
A Taste of Autumn’s Bounty: La’n Ta’s Oven-Baked Butternut Squash Recipe
Featured in the Toronto JoongAng Ilbo’s Thanksgiving special, this oven-baked butternut squash recipe embodies the abundance and warmth of autumn, filling your heart and home. Seasonal butternut squash is not only budget-friendly and delicious but also naturally sweet, making it a perfect, simple dessert when baked. It’s an ideal snack for when hunger strikes, a convenient breakfast alternative on busy mornings, or a nutritious treat for any time of day. This delightful squash dish, embodying the essence of fall, offers a satisfying sweetness and a wonderfully tender texture that the whole family will enjoy.
Main Ingredients
- 1/2 Mama Squash (Butternut Squash)
- Olive oil, to taste
- Honey, about 2 Tbsp
- Pumpkin seeds, 2 Tbsp
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Butternut squash has a hard rind that can be difficult and dangerous to cut. To make it easier and safer, place the squash in the microwave and cook for about 3-4 minutes. This softens the skin slightly, making it much easier to slice and reducing preparation time.
Step 2
Carefully remove the slightly microwaved squash and cut it in half. Be cautious as it may still be hot from the microwave.
Step 3
Once halved, use a spoon to scoop out and discard the seeds and stringy pulp from the center of the squash. You can save the seeds separately if desired.
Step 4
Cut the seeded squash halves into lengthwise wedges or desired pieces. Arrange them on an oven-safe baking sheet or pan, ensuring they are not overlapping too much for even cooking.
Step 5
Drizzle olive oil generously over the squash pieces. Olive oil adds a wonderful flavor and helps the squash achieve a slightly crisp exterior when baked.
Step 6
To enhance the natural sweetness, drizzle about 2 tablespoons of honey over the squash. Gently toss or mix the squash pieces with the olive oil and honey using your hands or a spatula to ensure an even coating.
Step 7
Sprinkle the pumpkin seeds evenly over the seasoned squash pieces. These seeds add a delightful nutty crunch and nutritional value, becoming even more delicious after baking.
Step 8
Preheat your oven to 380°F (190°C). Place the prepared squash into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and lightly golden brown. Baking time may vary depending on the size of the squash and your oven. The squash is ready when it can be easily pierced with a fork or skewer.
