Step-by-step instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine the butternut squash with olive oil, kosher salt, and black pepper.
3. Spread the seasoned squash in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Roast the squash for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until tender and caramelized.
5. While the squash is roasting, toast the walnuts. In a dry skillet over medium heat, add the walnuts and toast for 3–4 minutes, or until fragrant. Set aside.
6. In a small saucepan over low heat, warm the honey with the red chili flakes for 2–3 minutes. Remove from heat and mix in the vinegar or lemon juice.
7. Once the squash is done roasting, transfer it to a serving platter. Sprinkle crumbled feta and toasted walnuts on top.
8. Drizzle generously with the hot honey mixture. If desired, garnish with fresh thyme leaves or citrus zest for added flavor.

Best ways to enjoy it

Caramelized Butternut Squash pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Serve it alongside roasted chicken or grilled fish for a balanced meal, or enjoy it as a vegetarian main dish with a side of quinoa or couscous. It also makes a delightful addition to autumn salads or warm grain bowls. For a festive touch, consider serving it on a rustic wooden board, drizzled with the hot honey and scattered with fresh herbs for an appealing presentation.

Storage and reheating tips

To keep your leftovers fresh, store any uneaten Caramelized Butternut Squash in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should last for about 3 to 5 days. To reheat, simply warm in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes, or use a microwave if you’re short on time. For longer storage, consider freezing the roasted squash; it will retain its flavor for about a month but may lose some texture.

Helpful cooking tips

• Make sure to cut the butternut squash into uniform cubes to ensure even cooking.
• Consider using a pastry brush to apply olive oil and seasonings—this helps every piece get nicely coated.
• Adjust the amount of chili flakes in the honey sauce based on your heat preference; you can even omit it for a milder dish.
• If you want even more flavor, add some garlic or onion powder to the spice mix.

Creative twists

Take this recipe to the next level by adding your creative flair. Try swapping the feta for a blue cheese for a bolder taste or mix in some dried cranberries for a touch of sweetness. You could also use maple syrup instead of honey or add some roasted garlic for a richer flavor profile. For a seasonal twist, incorporate pumpkin spice into the honey or combine the squash with seasonal greens.

Common questions

What is the prep time for this recipe?
Prep time is about 10 minutes. The roasting process takes between 25 to 30 minutes, but the hands-on time is minimal.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can roast the squash and prepare the walnuts and honey drizzle a day in advance. Just reheat before serving.

How do I store leftovers safely?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 5 days. For longer-term storage, freeze the roasted squash and reheat it as needed.

With its perfect balance of sweetness and heat, this Caramelized Butternut Squash with Feta, Toasted Walnuts & Hot Honey Drizzle will soon become a favorite at your table! Enjoy exploring the unique flavors and textures of this beautiful dish.