Perfect Hasselback Butternut Squash With Feta: Incredible Recipe

Hey there, fellow food lovers! Nyla here, ready to turn your kitchen into a comfort food haven! Get ready to make something truly special, because today we’re diving headfirst into a flavor explosion with Hasselback butternut squash with feta! This isn’t just a recipe; it’s an invitation to transform a simple squash into a show-stopping centerpiece that’ll have everyone doing a happy dance!

I’m so excited to share this Hasselback butternut squash with feta recipe with you! The combination of sweet roasted squash, salty feta, and a touch of something extra is pure delicious magic. Are you ready for this flavor adventure?

I remember the first time I tried Hasselback butternut squash with feta. It was a happy accident born out of a late-night craving and a fridge full of leftovers. The result? Total perfection! The sweet squash combined with the salty feta was a match made in comfort food heaven. The crisp edges of the squash slices soak up all the delicious flavors, making each bite a total delight!

INGREDIENTS You Need

Here’s what you’ll need to bring this Hasselback butternut squash with feta dream to life. Don’t worry if you don’t have everything on hand – I’ve got some easy swaps for you!

  • 1 medium butternut squash: About 2-3 pounds, peeled, seeded, and halved lengthwise
  • 4 ounces feta cheese: Crumbled – you can grab this during your normal shopping trip!
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil: For that perfect roast!
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup: For a touch of sweetness.
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme: This Hasselback butternut squash with feta gets its amazing taste from simple herbs!
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: A little kick!
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: For a pop of freshness!
  • 1/4 cup chopped walnuts: Adds a little crunch!
  • Optional: Balsamic glaze

Raw ingredients needed for Hasselback butternut squash with feta, including butternut squash, feta cheese, olive oil, and spices

No worries if you don’t have maple syrup. I use honey all the time in my Hasselback butternut squash with feta. It adds a beautiful sweetness that complements the squash perfectly.

For ingredient prep shortcuts, you can buy pre-cut butternut squash to save time on busy weeknights. Store any leftover feta in an airtight container in the fridge for maximum freshness.

I love adding extra thyme to my Hasselback butternut squash with feta for that extra earthy kick! This Hasselback butternut squash with feta ingredient list is all about bold flavors that actually work together! Here’s my Hasselback butternut squash with feta secret that takes it from good to incredible – don’t be afraid to experiment with spices!

Looking for more dishes with similar flavors? This spinach and feta egg muffin is a great savory breakfast option.

Let’s Make Some!

Alright, let’s get cooking! I’m so excited to guide you through making this incredible Hasselback butternut squash with feta. Remember, cooking should be fun, so don’t stress if things aren’t perfect!

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is where the magic starts happening!
  2. Prepare the squash: Place the butternut squash halves cut-side up on a cutting board. Make slices about 1/4 inch apart, being careful not to cut all the way through to the bottom. You want the squash to remain intact at the base. This will give you that classic hasselback look.
  3. Season the squash: Brush the cut sides of the Hasselback butternut squash with feta with olive oil, then drizzle with maple syrup. Sprinkle with thyme, salt, and pepper. Make sure to get the seasoning in between the slices!
  4. Roast: Place the prepared Hasselback butternut squash with feta on a baking sheet and roast for 45-55 minutes, or until the squash is tender and the edges are slightly caramelized. In my kitchen, this Hasselback butternut squash with feta usually takes about 50 minutes to reach peak deliciousness.
  5. Add feta: Remove the Hasselback butternut squash with feta from the oven and sprinkle generously with crumbled feta cheese and chopped walnuts.
  6. Broil (optional): For extra golden deliciousness, broil for 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning. This is my favorite part of making Hasselback butternut squash with feta – watch the magic happen!
  7. Garnish and serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and a drizzle of balsamic glaze (if using). Your Hasselback butternut squash with feta should smell absolutely incredible right now!

While your Hasselback butternut squash with feta is doing its thing, get ready for some amazing aromas! This is a fantastic way to enjoy autumn squash recipe and incorporate some additional vegetarian butternut squash options. This recipe is so much easier to make than it looks, so don’t be scared by the process. Making Hasselback butternut squash with feta will turn you into a super-star squash chef! Don’t worry if your Hasselback butternut squash with feta looks a little rustic – that just adds to its charm! Each slice can be customized with more or less feta, so have fun with it!

How to Serve Up This!

Okay, the Hasselback butternut squash with feta is ready, and now it’s time to think about serving! This is the fun part where you get to make it look as good as it tastes!

I love to enjoy this Hasselback butternut squash with feta as a stunning side dish or even as a light vegetarian main course. It pairs perfectly with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or a simple salad. People literally do happy dances when this Hasselback butternut squash with feta hits the table with a drizzle of balsamic glaze!

For bold flavor pairings that complement perfectly, try serving it alongside a bright and zesty quinoa salad or some roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon. This Hasselback butternut squash with feta is perfect for those weeknight dinners that need to be special!

For presentation ideas that wow guests, arrange the squash on a beautiful platter and garnish with extra parsley and a sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds. Add a dollop of ricotta cheese and more feta for an extra creamy bite. A Roasted Hasselback Butternut Squash Salad – The Original Dish would also make an excellent side dish.

Got leftovers? Lucky you! Transform them into a creamy butternut squash soup or add them to a frittata for a delicious brunch. Consider making some Maple Glazed Hasselback Butternut Squash with Herbed Feta for a sweeter spin on this savory dish.

For fusion variations I’ve experimented with, try adding a sprinkle of chili flakes for a little heat or using goat cheese instead of feta for a tangier flavor. You might also enjoy these other Hasselback butternut squash with feta variations!

FAQs:

Got questions? I’ve got answers! Here are some frequently asked questions about making Hasselback butternut squash with feta, based on my own kitchen adventures and reader inquiries.

  • Will kitchen newbies succeed with this Hasselback butternut squash with feta? Absolutely! This recipe is super straightforward, and the most important thing is to have fun. Don’t stress about perfection – even if your slices aren’t perfect, it will still taste amazing!
  • What if I mess up my Hasselback butternut squash with feta? (Spoiler: it’ll still taste incredible!) Honestly, even if you accidentally cut all the way through the squash, it will still roast up beautifully. Think of it as deconstructed Hasselback butternut squash with feta!
  • How can I prep this Hasselback butternut squash with feta for busy weeknights? You can peel, seed, and slice the squash ahead of time. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge until you’re ready to roast.
  • Can I use pre-crumbled feta cheese? Absolutely! It’s a great time-saver. Just make sure it’s good quality feta for the best flavor.
  • What other toppings would be good on this squash? Get creative! Toasted pecans, dried cranberries, or a drizzle of tahini would all be delicious.
  • How do I know when the squash is done? The squash is done when it’s easily pierced with a fork and the edges are slightly caramelized. If it starts to brown too quickly, you can tent it with foil.
  • Can I make this vegan? Sure! Just skip the feta or use a vegan feta alternative. You can also add a drizzle of tahini for a creamy element.

This is a fantastic addition for those seeking a vegetarian butternut squash option. Plus, the roasted butternut squash feta combination is heavenly!

CONCLUSION:

This Hasselback butternut squash with feta isn’t just a recipe; it’s a celebration of flavor, a testament to the magic that happens when you combine simple ingredients in a creative way. It brings me so much joy to share recipes like this with you, knowing that you’re going to create something truly special in your own kitchen.

Finished Hasselback butternut squash with feta, a captivating autumn dish

My Hasselback Butternut Squash With Feta Flavor Secrets

  • Don’t be afraid to experiment with spices! A pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of cinnamon can add a surprising and delicious twist.
  • Toast your nuts! Toasting the walnuts (or pecans) before adding them to the squash brings out their nutty flavor and adds extra crunch.
  • Use good quality feta! The flavor of the feta really shines in this dish, so opt for a good quality block of feta in brine rather than pre-crumbled.

Here are a few delicious Hasselback butternut squash with feta variations I’ve tested:

  • Spicy Hasselback Butternut Squash with Feta: Add a pinch of chili flakes to the squash before roasting for a little kick.
  • Honey-Garlic Hasselback Butternut Squash with Feta: Drizzle the squash with a mixture of honey and minced garlic before roasting.
  • Consider Butternut Squash Orzo with Feta and Sage Recipe for a fun side dish.
  • Balsamic Glazed Hasselback Butternut Squash with Feta: Drizzle the roasted squash with balsamic glaze for a tangy-sweet finish. This pairs especially well with the feta.

The honey-garlic version is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner, while the balsamic glazed version is elegant enough for a dinner party. If you like it spicy, be sure to try the spicy variation!

Fellow food lovers, trust your taste buds, get creative, and have fun in the kitchen! I’m so excited for you to try this Hasselback butternut squash with feta. I have no doubt you’ll create something truly amazing. It’s a great time to create the best autumn squash recipe.

Happy cooking! 💕

 

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Hasselback butternut squash with feta

Hasselback Butternut Squash with Feta - a captivating Autumn dish

This hasselback butternut squash is roasted until tender and caramelized, then topped with salty feta cheese for a delightful sweet and savory flavor combination. It’s a simple yet elegant side dish perfect for fall or winter.

  • Author: Nyla
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50 minutes
  • Total Time: 65 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 medium butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and halved lengthwise
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Place butternut squash halves cut-side up on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, make slices about 1/4 inch apart, being careful not to cut all the way through.
  3. Brush the squash with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
  4. Place the squash halves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  5. Roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
  6. Remove from oven and sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese and sage (if using).
  7. Drizzle with honey or maple syrup (if using).
  8. Serve immediately.

Notes

For a richer flavor, try adding a sprinkle of toasted pecans or walnuts before serving.

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