5 Ingredient Butternut Squash with Brown Butter Hazelnuts

5 Ingredient Butternut Squash with Brown Butter Hazelnuts is a delightful dish that combines the sweetness of roasted butternut squash with the rich flavors of brown butter and crunchy hazelnuts. Perfect for any occasion, this simple yet elegant side dish brings warmth to your table. Its vibrant colors and unique taste make it an ideal complement for weeknight dinners or holiday feasts.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: With just five main ingredients, this recipe is easy to follow and perfect for busy cooks.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of brown butter and hazelnuts adds a depth of flavor that elevates the dish.
• Versatile Serving: Great as a side for various meals, it pairs beautifully with chicken, beef, or turkey.
• Healthy Ingredients: Butternut squash is packed with vitamins, making this dish nutritious as well as delicious.
• Eye-Catching Presentation: The bright orange squash contrasted with green thyme and red pomegranate arils creates a stunning visual impact.

Tools and Preparation

To get started on this delicious side dish, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment can make your cooking experience more enjoyable and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Skillet
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: A sturdy baking sheet ensures even roasting of the butternut squash for a perfectly caramelized texture.
• Skillet: A good-quality skillet allows for precise control when making the brown butter mixture, enhancing its nutty flavor.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes peeling and cubing the butternut squash quick and safe.

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Ingredients

For this 5 ingredient butternut squash with brown butter hazelnuts recipe, gather the following ingredients:

• 5 cups peeled and cubed butternut squash (from 1 medium-large squash)
• 2 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/2 tsp. kosher salt
• 1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
• 2 Tbsp. salted butter
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 tsp. fresh thyme leaves
• 1/3 cup coarsely chopped hazelnuts
• 2 Tbsp. pomegranate arils

How to Make 5 Ingredient Butternut Squash with Brown Butter Hazelnuts

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 425ºF.
2. Arrange the butternut squash cubes on a large rimmed baking sheet.
3. Toss them in olive oil, kosher salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
4. Roast for 35 minutes, making sure to toss after 20 minutes for even cooking.

Step 2: Prepare the Hazelnut Mixture

1. During the last 10 minutes of roasting, melt the salted butter in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Swirl occasionally until the foam subsides and the milk solids turn golden-brown; it should smell nutty (about 3 minutes).
3. Stir in the chopped hazelnuts, minced garlic, and fresh thyme. Cook for an additional minute before removing from heat.

Step 3: Assemble Your Dish

1. Once the butternut squash is roasted, arrange it on a serving platter or in a bowl.
2. Spoon the hazelnut mixture evenly over the top of the roasted squash.
3. Garnish with pomegranate arils before serving.

Now you’re all set to enjoy this flavorful and easy-to-make dish!

How to Serve 5 Ingredient Butternut Squash with Brown Butter Hazelnuts

Serving 5 Ingredient Butternut Squash with Brown Butter Hazelnuts is a delightful way to impress your guests or family. This dish pairs well with various mains and can also be enjoyed as a standalone treat.

As a Cozy Side Dish

• Pair with roasted chicken for a comforting meal that highlights the seasonal flavors.
• Serve alongside grilled lamb chops to create a delicious contrast of textures and tastes.

In a Salad

• Toss with mixed greens for a warm salad that combines fresh ingredients and hearty squash.
• Add feta cheese for a tangy kick that complements the sweetness of the squash.

As Part of a Holiday Feast

• Include in your holiday spread as a vibrant side that adds color and flavor to your table.
• Serve it at potlucks, where its unique taste will surely stand out among other dishes.

With Grain Bowls

• Use as a topping in grain bowls alongside quinoa or farro for added nutrition and flavor.
• Pair with chickpeas for extra protein while keeping the dish plant-based.

How to Perfect 5 Ingredient Butternut Squash with Brown Butter Hazelnuts

To elevate your dish, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure that your butternut squash is perfectly roasted and flavorful.

• Choose the right squash: Select a firm butternut squash that feels heavy for its size. This ensures freshness and sweetness.
• Cut evenly: Make sure to cube the squash into even pieces so they roast uniformly, preventing some from being overcooked while others are underdone.
• Monitor roasting time: Keep an eye on the squash while it roasts. Adjust time based on your oven’s performance for optimal caramelization.
• Mind the butter: Watch the butter closely as it browns. Remove it from heat when it turns golden-brown to avoid burning.
• Experiment with herbs: While thyme is great, feel free to add other herbs like sage or rosemary for different flavor profiles.
• Add texture: Consider mixing in other nuts or seeds for added crunch, enhancing both flavor and texture.

Best Side Dishes for 5 Ingredient Butternut Squash with Brown Butter Hazelnuts

Complementing your butternut squash dish can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent side options that pair wonderfully.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
   Creamy mashed potatoes flavored with garlic make for a rich accompaniment to balance the sweetness of butternut squash.

2. Sautéed Green Beans
   Fresh green beans sautéed with almonds add crunch and freshness, providing a contrast to the richness of brown butter.

3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
   Caramelized Brussels sprouts offer earthy notes that work beautifully alongside sweet butternut squash.

4. Quinoa Pilaf
   A light quinoa pilaf mixed with herbs and lemon zest serves as a nutritious base that complements the flavors of the squash.

5. Cranberry Sauce
   A tart cranberry sauce adds brightness and acidity, enhancing the overall flavor profile of your meal.

6. Steamed Broccoli
   Simple steamed broccoli brings vibrant color and nutrients, making it an easy yet elegant side choice.

7. Herbed Couscous
   Fluffy couscous flavored with fresh herbs provides a delightful texture that pairs nicely with roasted dishes.

8. Baked Sweet Potatoes
   Sweet potatoes bring additional natural sweetness while their fluffy texture harmonizes well with butternut squash.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making 5 Ingredient Butternut Squash with Brown Butter Hazelnuts, it’s easy to overlook a few key elements. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of.

• Ignoring uniformity in cutting: Ensure all butternut squash pieces are the same size for even cooking. This helps them roast uniformly and achieve the desired texture.
• Overcrowding the baking sheet: If you place too many squash cubes on one sheet, they will steam instead of roast. Use multiple sheets if necessary to give each piece enough space.
• Skipping the toss: Failing to toss the squash halfway through roasting can lead to uneven browning. Toss them at 20 minutes for optimal results.
• Not monitoring the butter: When making the brown butter, keep an eye on it and swirl occasionally. If left unattended, it can burn quickly, ruining the flavor.
• Forgetting garnishes: Pomegranate arils add a fresh burst of flavor and color. Don’t skip this step as it enhances both taste and presentation.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing for best results.

Freezing 5 Ingredient Butternut Squash with Brown Butter Hazelnuts

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Lay parchment between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Reheating 5 Ingredient Butternut Squash with Brown Butter Hazelnuts

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a skillet, adding a splash of broth if needed to avoid drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is special about 5 Ingredient Butternut Squash with Brown Butter Hazelnuts?

This dish combines simple ingredients into a flavorful side that is perfect for any occasion. The nutty brown butter complements the sweetness of butternut squash beautifully.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Simply substitute the salted butter with a plant-based alternative such as coconut oil or vegan buttery spread.

How do I choose a ripe butternut squash?

Look for smooth skin, a dull finish, and no soft spots. A heavier squash generally indicates more flesh inside.

Can I use other nuts instead of hazelnuts?

Absolutely! You can swap hazelnuts for walnuts or pecans based on your preference.

Final Thoughts

The 5 Ingredient Butternut Squash with Brown Butter Hazelnuts is not just easy; it’s also incredibly versatile. Perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday gatherings, this cozy side pairs well with various main dishes. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite herbs or spices!