Maple Herb Roasted Butternut Squash
Maple Herb Roasted Butternut Squash
This Maple Herb Roasted Butternut Squash recipe is the warmth of great herbs + spices and the succulent taste of savory flavors which is beautifully put together for the best vegan Thanksgiving centerpiece dish during the Holidays. Perfectly roasted whole butternut squash, topped with dried cranberries, chopped nuts, pumpkin seeds, and a delicious maple syrup glaze----this recipe is a definite holiday feast crowd-pleaser! All Vegan + Gluten-free.
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Why Maple Herb Roasted Butternut Squash?
I'm seriously in love with how delicious this squash recipe is. And while I do enjoy a beautifully roasted chicken during Thanksgiving, I also love having a lot of vegan options as well and this Maple Herb Roasted Butternut Squash will be on my list this year!
If you're a lover of butternut squash--then I can guarantee that you'll love this one. It's not only beautiful, but it tastes absolutely amazing with the infusion of sweet + savory flavors that go so well together. And if you're wanting to continue the butternut squash theme then this Butternut Squash Sweet Potato Shepherd's Pie is also a huge hit at the holiday table and just during fall evenings! Elevate your weeknight dinners with our Creamy Roasted Butternut Squash Pasta, a delightful blend of seasonal ingredients that's both family-friendly and irresistibly creamy. Make your fall and winter holiday table shine with our Wild + Brown Rice Stuffed Butternut Squash-- This hearty and heartwarming dish blends earthy squash with a hearty wild rice stuffing.
Now, if butternut squash isn't your thing, no worries at all! I've got a lineup of other fantastic vegan main dish options for you to explore. If you're in the mood for something different, consider trying one of these mouthwatering alternatives: the Sticky Teriyaki + Maple Whole Roasted Cauliflower, and the comforting + satisfying Vegan BBQ Wellington. There's a delicious choice for every palate!
Jump to:
- Why Maple Herb Roasted Butternut Squash?
- How To Make Maple Herb Roasted Butternut Squash
- Ingredients
- Why You’ll Love This Maple Herb Roasted Butternut Squash
- Best Topping Ideas for this Maple Herb Roasted Butternut Squash
- What to Serve with Maple Butternut Squash?
- Is Butternut Squash Healthy?
- How To Use Leftover Roasted Butternut Squash?
- Thanksgiving Tips + Tricks
- Maple Herb Roasted Butternut Squash Q + A's
- Need More Comforting Vegan Recipes? Try These!
- MADE OUR RECIPE(S)?
- Maple Herb Roasted Butternut Squash
How To Make Maple Herb Roasted Butternut Squash
When it comes to making this Maple Herb Roasted Butternut Squash recipe, the process comes in 3 easy steps:
- Begin by prepping your butternut squash first! In this step, you'll peel your butternut squash past the out layer, white layer, and until you see the "orange-colored" flesh.
- Cut the butternut squash in half (making small slits along each) and add them to a baking sheet.
- Finally, you add add the olive oil, seasonings, and maple syrup, bake, and wallah. It’s magic!
Ingredients
Here’s what you need to make this Maple Herb Roasted Butternut Squash:
- Butternut squash. I use 1 medium squash (about 4-5 lbs.), peel, + then cut in half.
- Olive oil. You can also use avocado oil or Grapeseed oil, if you prefer.
- Maple syrup. Use pure syrup, not imitation or pancake syrup.
- Dried herbs and spices. I love a combination of salt, black pepper, garlic, thyme, basil, oregano, parsley, and smoked paprika.
- Cranberries. The perfect bit of tartness needed for this dish.
- Nuts. You can use your favorite nuts like walnuts, pecans, hazelnuts, etc. and keep them whole or roughly chop for the topping.
- Pumpkin seeds. These add crunch and healthy fats to this dish.
- Vegan butter. You can also use an equal amount of extra virgin olive oil if you prefer that flavor atop your butternut squash. I love the brand Earth Balance
Why You’ll Love This Maple Herb Roasted Butternut Squash
- Bold flavors—Savory + sweet marry so well together!
- An IDEAL vegan Thanksgiving recipe!
- Easy to make. Easy weeknight meal option.
- Butternut squash is just so delicious as the main 'meaty' veggie!
- Uses simple ingredients.
- Completely meal-prep friendly!
- Great vegan option for everyone!
- And just absolutely wholesome + PERFECT for any kind of weather or occasion.
Best Topping Ideas for this Maple Herb Roasted Butternut Squash
I like to add some extra texture to my roasted butternut squash like this one. Therefore, I wanted to share a few more ideas in case you make this roasted butternut squash recipe more than once and want to switch things up!
Other topping ideas include:
- Roasted veggies like cubed sweet potatoes, carrots, broccoli, or corn
- Crispy bacon or candied bacon (if you're not plant-based, of course)
- Herb roasted tomatoes
- Roasted fruit like sliced apples, pears, etc.
- Panko breadcrumbs
- Honey instead of maple syrup (if you're not plant-based, of course)
- Nuts, such as pecans, hazelnuts or walnuts
- Homemade cranberry sauce drizzled on top!
- Crispy sage leaves
- Roasted chickpeas
- Pomegranate Seeds
SHOP MY FAVORITE TOOLS FOR COOKING, ESPECIALLY FOR THIS BUTTERNUT SQUASH!
Here, I’ve curated a list of cooking + baking essentials that I use to achieve my favorite baked goods or cooked meals, especially with this Maple Herb Roasted Butternut Squash. Everything from my fave baking sheets, wooden spoons, parchment paper, mixing bowls, and more. SEE THEM HERE!
What to Serve with Maple Butternut Squash?
This dish is a wonderful addition to your Thanksgiving table or any meal, really. It's a versatile side that pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, like...
- Cornbread: Classic cornbread or my Brown Butter Pumpkin Cornbread complements the greens beautifully or for a vegan option Vegan Sweet Potato Maple Herb Cornbread is amazing!
- Mac and Cheese: Creamy mac and cheese adds comfort and richness try this Baked Vegan Buffalo Mac + Cheese recipe!
- Chicken: A Southern favorite that's a perfect match, this Jerk Whole Roast Chicken ot this Cranberry Maple Roast Chicken is truly amazing alongside it!
- Roasted veggies. I absolutely love these Maple Herb Glazed Carrots
- Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes offer a hearty side or these Crispy Garlic Herb Smashed Potatoes are always a crowd-pleaser!
- Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits complete the Southern meal. Honey Butter Cornbread Drop Biscuits or Garlic Herb Biscuits are a dream alongside this dish.
Is Butternut Squash Healthy?
Absolutely, butternut squash is not only a delicious addition to your holiday table but also a healthy one. It's packed with essential vitamins and minerals, making it a fantastic choice! Plus, embracing seasonal eating with butternut squash means you're savoring the freshest flavors fall has to offer. Check out my guide to The Best Pantry Foods To Stock For Fall.
Butternut squash health benefits
- Rich in vitamin A:--Butternut squash is loaded with vitamin A in the form of beta-carotene, promoting healthy skin and vision.
- High in dietary fiber: Aids digestion + promotes a feeling of fullness!
- A great source of vitamin C: An antioxidant that boosts the immune system and promotes healthy skin.
- Essential minerals: Butternut squash provides important minerals like potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure, and manganese, vital for bone health.
- Antioxidant-rich: Packed with antioxidants, it helps combat oxidative stress and lowers the risk of chronic diseases.
- Complex carbohydrates: Provides sustained energy and helps to stabilize blood sugar levels!
How To Use Leftover Roasted Butternut Squash?
Repurposing those leftover roasted butternut squash is a true win. I recommend cutting it into cutes--Once you've got those golden chunks ready to go, a whole realm of tasty options opens up.
Here are some ideas to help you enjoy your leftover butternut squash to the fullest:
Creamy Soup: Try this Easy Roasted Butternut Squash Soup and feel free to top homemade croutons for extra flavor.
Pizza: Give pizza night a twist with this Pumpkin BBQ Chicken Pizza with Butternut Squash
Buddha Bowl: Create a nourishing Buddha bowl by layering your leftover squash with grains, roasted chickpeas, greens, and your favorite dressing. It would go perfectly with a Vegan Jamaican Power Bowl
Pasta: Toss your squash with cooked pasta like this Roasted Butternut Squash Pasta w/ Parmesan Garlic Sauce or Butternut Squash Stuffed Shells with Quinoa + Kale
Tacos: Spice things up by incorporating your leftover butternut squash into tacos. Chipotle BBQ Butternut Squash Tacos try alongside my homemade chipotle sauce
Thanksgiving Tips + Tricks
If you're gearing up to host a Thanksgiving feast that caters to all diets or searching for vegan Thanksgiving recipes for a traditional family gathering or a Friendsgiving celebration, I've got you covered! Check out these articles I've penned for some handy tips, tricks, and a deep dive into plant-based options to make your Thanksgiving day a breeze.
- How to Host the Perfect Vegan Friendsgiving
- 30 Ultimate Plant-Based Thanksgiving Recipes
- Thanksgiving Menu + Guide for ALL Eaters
Maple Herb Roasted Butternut Squash Q + A's
Leftovers of this vegan thanksgiving recipe can be stored in a tightly sealed container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, for optimal freshness.
While butternut squash is best for it's sweet and nutty flavor, you can certainly use other types of squash like acorn, kabocha, or delicata. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary slightly.
Yes, you can roast the butternut squash ahead of time and then reheat it in the oven before serving. This can help save time and streamline your vegan thanksgiving recipe meal preparation.
Need More Comforting Vegan Recipes? Try These!
If you are a fan of this Maple Herb Roasted Butternut Squash, you have to try these satisfying vegan recipes next!
- Best Vegan Sweet Potato Pie
- Vegan Sweet Cornbread
- Vegan Sweet Potato Cinnamon Rolls
- Creamy Vegan White Bean Soup
- Vegan BBQ Meatballs with Creamy Polenta
- Crispy Buffalo Cauliflower Wings/Bites
- Vegan Garlic Herb Kale Bread
- Vegan Curry Chickpea Mashed Potato Bowl
MADE OUR RECIPE(S)?
If you tried this vegan Maple Herb Roasted Butternut Squash recipe or any other recipe on my website, please please leave a 🌟 star rating and let me know how you go in the 📝 comments below. I love hearing from you.
Maple Herb Roasted Butternut Squash
Ingredients
BUTTERNUT SQUASH:
- 1 medium butternut squash (About 5lbs. or so)
- 2 Tbsps Extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 2 Tbsps vegan butter, melted
- ¼ cup pure maple syrup
OPTIONAL TOPPINGS:
- Dried cranberries
- Your favorite nuts (i.e. walnuts, pecans, etc.)
- Pumpkin seeds
- Pure maple syrup, for drizzle
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
PREP + CUT THE BUTTERNUT SQUASH:
- Using a vegetable peeler, peel the skin and white layer beneath the skin of the squash. On a cutting board, carefully cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise with a large knife, scooping out the seeds and pulp using a spoon and discarding them.
- Semi-slice each squash into ¼ inch slices, but DO NOT slide the knife all the way down---it's best to take your time to avoid that. NOTE: If needed, place each butternut squash between two wooden spoons or chopsticks to help guide you with how far down to cut.
- Transfer each butternut squash, sliced side up, onto the prepared baking sheet and brush them with the olive oil on both sides and season with the salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, oregano, thyme, basil, garlic powder, and parsley.
BAKE THE BUTTERNUT SQUASH:
- Bake for 30 minutes or until softened. Then carefully brush the melted butter and maple syrup unto each butternut squash and bake for another 10-15 minutes until golden and 'caramelized'.
- Remove from oven and let them cool slightly before adding your desired toppings: dried cranberries, chopped nuts, pumpkin seeds, drizzle of maple syrup, etc.
- Serve immediately with your favorite side.
- Bon Appetit!
Tips & Tricks
- STORAGE: Leftovers can be stored in an air-tight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and reheated when ready to serve. To re-heat, add each serving to the oven, until warmed through. Drizzle with additional maple syrup, if needed.
- EQUIPMENT: Here, I’ve curated a list of cooking + baking essentials that I use to achieve my favorite baked goods or cooked meals, especially with this Maple Herb Roasted Butternut Squash. Everything from my fave baking sheets, wooden spoons, parchment paper, mixing bowls, and more. SEE THEM HERE!
Nutrition
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Maple Herb Roasted Butternut Squash.
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