Butternut squash is a versatile and delicious winter squash that can be prepared in many ways. It has a sweet, nutty flavor that pairs well with both savory and sweet ingredients. When serving butternut squash as a side dish, there are many possibilities for complementary flavors and textures. Here are some ideas for tasty sides that will enhance the natural sweetness of butternut squash.
Savory Flavors
Butternut squash has a mild, slightly sweet flavor that allows it to pair well with a variety of savory seasonings and ingredients. Some ideas for savory sides that complement butternut squash include:
Herbs
Fresh or dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, sage, marjoram, and oregano all taste fantastic with butternut squash. These herbs accentuate the natural sweetness and add an extra dimension of flavor. Try roasting cubed butternut squash with a olive oil, salt, and a blend of fresh herbs for a simple side.
Spices
Warm spices are an excellent match for butternut squash. Cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, curry powder, cumin, and chili powder all pair nicely. Roast chunks of squash with olive oil, salt, pepper and a dash of your favorite spices. For a Moroccan twist, use cumin, coriander, cinnamon and cayenne.
Nuts and seeds
Toasted nuts and seeds such as walnuts, pecans, pepitas, pine nuts, almonds and sunflower seeds taste great with roasted butternut squash. They add crunch and complementary nutty, earthy flavors. Toss cubed roasted squash with toasted nuts or seeds for an easy side.
Cheese
Melted cheese takes butternut squash to the next level. Gruyère, parmesan, feta and goat cheese are all excellent options. Try layering thin slices of squash in a gratin with cheese and breadcrumbs, or top a roasted squash salad with crumbled feta or goat cheese. The salty, creamy flavors pair perfectly.
Sweet Flavors
In addition to savory ingredients, butternut squash also pairs well with sweet flavors. Consider these options:
Maple syrup
Maple syrup is a classic pairing for butternut squash. Drizzle over roasted squash or add to a vinaigrette for a salad. The rich, deep sweetness complements the squash.
Cinnamon and brown sugar
For a simple side, toss cubed roasted butternut squash with butter, cinnamon and brown sugar. The sweet spice combination enhances the flavor.
Cranberries and pecans
Roasted butternut squash, dried cranberries, and toasted pecans is a delicious fall or holiday side dish combination. The tart cranberries and crunchy, nutty pecans balance the squash’s sweetness.
Pomegranate arils
For a fun seasonal twist, top roasted butternut squash with bright, juicy pomegranate arils. Their sweet-tart pop adds flavor and color.
Apples and raisins
Sautéed apples and raisins make a great pairing with mashed or puréed butternut squash. Their mild sweetness accents the squash perfectly.
Complementary Textures
In addition to flavors, think about textures that provide contrast to the smooth, creamy nature of butternut squash. Ideas include:
Toasted breadcrumbs or nuts
Top mashed or puréed butternut squash with toasted breadcrumbs or nuts. This adds crunch for contrast.
Wilted spinach or kale
Sautéed greens pair nicely with mashed squash. The leafy texture stands up to the creaminess.
Crunchy vegetables
For a roasted squash side, add other vegetables like Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, broccoli, carrots or asparagus. Different colors and crunchy textures create interest.
Full Side Dish Recipe Ideas
Here are some full recipes for side dishes that showcase delicious flavor combinations with butternut squash:
Butternut Squash with Cranberries and Feta
– 1 medium butternut squash, peeled, seeded and cut into 1-inch chunks
– Olive oil
– Salt and pepper
– 1⁄3 cup dried cranberries
– 1⁄3 cup crumbled feta cheese
Toss squash chunks with oil, salt and pepper. Roast at 400°F for 25 minutes until tender. Remove from oven and mix in cranberries and feta.
Butternut Squash Gratin with Sage
– 2 pounds butternut squash, peeled, seeded and thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1⁄4 cup grated Parmesan
– 1⁄4 cup fresh sage, chopped
– 1⁄2 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper
Toss squash slices with oil, garlic, salt and pepper. Layer in baking dish. Top with sage, Parmesan and breadcrumbs. Bake at 375°F for 40 minutes.
Butternut Squash Purée with Caramelized Apples
– 1 large butternut squash, peeled, seeded and cubed
– Chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 apples, peeled, cored and sliced
– 2 teaspoons brown sugar
– Salt and pepper
Boil squash in broth until very tender, then drain and mash. Sauté apples in butter and brown sugar for 3-4 minutes until caramelized. Mix apples with squash and season with salt and pepper.
Conclusion
Butternut squash is very versatile as a side dish. It pairs well with both sweet and savory flavors like herbs, spices, nuts, seeds, maple syrup, apples, cranberries and more. Look for contrasting textures from breadcrumbs, roasted veggies or wilted greens to complement the creaminess of the squash. With endless possibilities for flavor combinations and many easy recipes to try, butternut squash makes a tasty, seasonal side.