Step into a cozy fall vibe with this tasty roasted Butternut Squash And Apples recipe.
The scent of this butternut squash and apples will surely kick up nostalgia for most of us. For me, it is the start of a new school year, comfy sweaters, cooking with Sunday football playing, and decorating with the shades of autumn. Butternut squash and apples are harvested in the fall, and they also represent the season throughout history and in many cultures.
Both apples and butternut squash align with the universal themes of autumn: Preparation for winter, gratitude for the harvest, and the cyclical nature of life. Apples, long associated with the autumn equinox, symbolize knowledge, abundance, and gratitude–perfect reminders of the harvest season’s gifts. Butternut squash, a hearty and versatile staple of fall harvests, represents abundance and the unity of family and community during a season of gratitude.
With all this talk of autumn, I hope you can practically taste this butternut squash and apple recipe. Most of the work will come from peeling and cubing the squash, but this is where I cheat and buy it pre-cut. Basically, you toss the apples and squash with butter and cinnamon, then bake it. The warm, inviting aroma of autumn will fill your home as this dish bakes to perfection.
Are Butternut Squash And Apples Healthy?
Both butternut squash and apples are nutrient-dense and rich in antioxidants and fiber. Butternut squash is high in potassium and beta-carotene, while apples provide magnesium. Since this dish is sweetened by the natural flavors of the fruits and cinnamon, it has no added sugar. It’s also gluten-free and vegetarian. If you replace the butter with coconut oil, it will be vegan-friendly, Whole30, and Paleo-approved as well.
What Is Caramelization?
Caramelization is the process of sugar breaking down under heat, creating a rich brown color and sweet, nutty flavor as the sugar turns to caramel. Butternut squash and apples contain natural sugars like fructose, glucose, and sucrose that caramelize beautifully when cooked. To ensure even caramelization in this recipe, flip or stir halfway through baking, and consider adding a pinch of salt to enhance the depth of flavor.
How To Make Ahead And Store
To make ahead, cube the butternut squash and apples and store them in an airtight container for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to prepare the dish, combine the rest of the ingredients and bake. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat the dish in a hot oven for 5 to 10 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
This butternut squash and apples recipe is the perfect side dish for any autumn or winter meal. This dish will be a hit at Thanksgiving next to your traditional Garlic Mashed Potatoes, stuffing (try this Gluten-Free Stuffing, or Harvest Vegan Stuffing), and Roasted Brussels Sprouts With Bacon.
This dish does not have to be reserved for a special occasion, though. It is simple enough for a weeknight meal with juicy Grilled Chicken Tenders or tossed with Fluffy Quinoa.
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash peeled, seeded, and cut into 1/2-inch cubes (4-5 cups of pre-cut squash)
- 3 medium apples peeled, cored, and cut into 1/2-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400℉. Prepare a large rimmed baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper for easier cleanup.
- In a large bowl, combine the cubed butternut squash and apples. Pour the melted butter over the mixture and sprinkle with ground cinnamon. Toss everything together until the squash and apples are well coated.
- Spread the squash and apple mixture in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Place in the oven and bake for 25 minutes, flipping or stirring halfway through, until the squash is tender and the apples are lightly caramelized.
Nutrition Info:
Nutrition information are estimates only and may vary based on the specific brands, ingredients, and portion sizes you use. This data is provided for informational purposes only.
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