Prepare to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience with this show-stopping Honey Almond Hasselback Butternut squash! Imagine a perfectly roasted butternut, its golden edges crisp and caramelized, dripping with sweet honey and adorned with toasted almonds that crackle with every bite. This recipe isn't just a side dish—it's a flavor adventure that will make your taste buds dance and your dinner guests marvel at your cooking prowess. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe promises to elevate your cooking game with minimal effort and maximum deliciousness.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Carefully wash the butternut squash and pat dry with paper towels. Using a sharp knife, carefully trim off both ends of the squash.
- Place the squash on a cutting board and slice it in half lengthwise. Scoop out the seeds and stringy pulp using a spoon.
- Place the squash halves cut-side down and carefully make thin, parallel cuts across the surface, stopping about 1/4 inch from the bottom to keep the slices connected.
- Drizzle olive oil over the squash, ensuring it gets between the cuts. Season generously with salt and pepper.
- Bake the squash for 25-30 minutes until the edges start to become golden and the slices begin to fan out.
- Remove from oven and drizzle honey between the cuts, allowing it to seep into the slices. Sprinkle sliced almonds over the top.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the almonds are toasted and the squash is tender.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Serve hot, garnishing with additional honey or almonds if desired.
Tips
- Use a sharp knife and steady hand when making the Hasselback cuts. To prevent accidentally cutting through the squash, place chopsticks or wooden spoons on either side as cutting guides.
- For even more flavor, try infusing your honey with a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of vanilla before drizzling.
- Choose a butternut squash that's firm and heavy for its size, with a matte (not shiny) skin—this indicates ripeness and better flavor.
- To make cutting easier, microwave the whole squash for 2-3 minutes to slightly soften it before slicing.
- For extra crispiness, broil the squash for 2-3 minutes at the end of cooking, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Experiment with different nut varieties like pecans or walnuts if almonds aren't your preference.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
