This super-simple butternut squash side dish is terrific on its own or as a base for other creations. Puree leftovers with stock for a quick soup or tuck them into tacos or quesadillas. It's also delicious with risotto or atop pasta or pizza.
Ingredients
- 1 butternut squash (about 2 pounds)
- 6 shallots, sliced (about 2 cups)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 3 sprigs fresh thyme
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 450°F.
- Peel, seed and cut squash into ½-inch cubes. Toss squash and shallots with oil, a pinch of salt and pepper, and thyme. Spread in a single layer (or close to it) on a heavy roasting pan, and roast for 20-25 minutes. After the first 10 minutes, stir occasionally, until squash and shallots are tender and caramelized.
- Remove from oven, and discard thyme stems before serving.
Servings: 4
Makes about 3 cups.
Shopping Tip: When buying butternut squash, look for a squat gourd with a thick “neck” for more flesh and fewer seeds. A long-necked, “hippy” butternut of the same weight would have comparatively less flesh and more seeds.
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