This Butternut Squash and Kale recipe is a delightful celebration of fall flavors, combining the natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash with the earthy, robust taste of sautéed kale. The dish is not only visually stunning, with vibrant orange and deep green hues, but it also offers a nutritious and satisfying meal. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a healthy lunch, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will fall in love with this butternut squash and kale recipe for its incredible flavor balance and ease of preparation. The creamy sweetness of the butternut squash pairs beautifully with the slightly bitter kale, creating a harmonious blend that appeals to both the palate and the eye. This dish is also incredibly versatile, fitting seamlessly into a plant-based diet or a healthy eating plan, making it a go-to recipe for anyone looking to add more veggies to their meals without sacrificing taste.
Tips and Tricks
To make your butternut squash and kale dish even better, here are some handy tips:
- Pre-cut the squash: If you’re short on time, buy pre-cubed butternut squash to save on prep.
- Use high heat for roasting: Roasting the squash at 425°F ensures caramelization, enhancing its sweetness.
- Season generously: Don’t skimp on the salt and pepper—these are crucial for bringing out the flavors of the vegetables.
- Add protein: Toss in some chickpeas or quinoa for an extra protein boost, making it a complete meal.
Make Ahead Tips
This recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can:
- Roast the butternut squash: Prepare it a day in advance, and it will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Wash and chop the kale: Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge; it will stay fresh for a week.
- Combine before serving: Just sauté the kale and toss it with the roasted squash right before serving for optimal freshness.
Recipe Variations
Feel free to get creative with your butternut squash and kale recipe:
- Add nuts or seeds: Top with toasted pumpkin seeds or walnuts for added crunch.
- Incorporate spices: Try adding cumin or smoked paprika for a different flavor profile.
- Switch up the greens: Substitute kale with Swiss chard or spinach for a different texture and taste.
How to Serve
Serve this dish warm, garnished with a sprinkle of feta cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy. A drizzle of balsamic glaze or a squeeze of lemon juice can elevate the dish even further. Pair it with crusty bread or a light protein, like grilled chicken or fish, for a complete meal.
Pairing Suggestions
For drinks, pair this dish with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, which complements the sweet and savory elements perfectly. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, a herbal tea or sparkling water with lemon would be refreshing. As for sides, consider pairing with a simple arugula salad or roasted Brussels sprouts to round out your meal.
How to Store
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the dish for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth to keep it moist.
Equipment Needed
You will need:
- A baking sheet for roasting the squash
- A large skillet for sautéing the kale
- A sharp knife and cutting board for chopping
- Optional: A food processor for quick chopping if you’re making larger batches.
Dietary Adaptations
To make this recipe vegan, simply omit any cheese toppings. For a nut-free version, skip any nuts or seeds that you might want to add. You can replace regular olive oil with avocado oil if you’re concerned about allergens.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the fall, using freshly harvested butternut squash will yield the best flavor. In spring and summer, consider swapping butternut squash for zucchini or asparagus for a lighter dish. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can be added in place of dried if available.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use frozen butternut squash? Yes, frozen butternut squash can be used; just adjust the roasting time accordingly.
What can I substitute for kale? You can use Swiss chard, spinach, or even collard greens.
How long does it take to cook the squash? Roasting takes about 25-30 minutes, depending on the size of your cubes.
How To Make butternut squash and kale recipe
Butternut Squash and Kale
This Butternut Squash and Kale recipe is a delightful celebration of fall flavors, combining the natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash with the earthy, robust taste of sautéed kale.
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 4 cups kale, stems removed and chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Optional: Feta cheese or nutritional yeast for topping
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a large bowl, toss the cubed butternut squash with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until well coated.
- Spread the squash in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
- While the squash is roasting, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped kale and sauté for 3-5 minutes until just wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Once the squash is done, combine it with the sautéed kale in the skillet and gently toss to combine.
- Serve warm, garnished with feta cheese or nutritional yeast if desired.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 151Total Fat 9gSaturated Fat 2gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 6gCholesterol 6mgSodium 629mgCarbohydrates 15gFiber 5gSugar 3gProtein 6g
dinnerbytes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although dinnerbytes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
This butternut squash and kale recipe is a wonderful way to embrace seasonal ingredients while creating a nourishing and satisfying meal. Whether served as a main dish or a side, it’s sure to impress. Give it a try, and enjoy the delightful flavors and textures that come together in this simple yet elegant recipe!
