If you’re in St. Clair, Michigan, this holiday season, one dish will steal the spotlight at your Christmas table—Orange and Maple Roasted Butternut Squash. This sweet and savory recipe is a festive favorite that combines the natural richness of butternut squash with the bright zest of orange and the comforting sweetness of maple syrup. It’s simple, delicious, and perfect for the holidays.
Oh, and by the way, you can find this recipe in our Christmas Guide 2024—your ultimate companion for seasonal cheer!
A Taste of St. Clair This Christmas
St. Clair is a charming riverside town that knows how to celebrate the holidays right. From twinkling lights downtown to cozy gatherings with family and friends, it’s a place where food plays a big role in bringing people together. This roasted butternut squash dish fits perfectly into the spirit of St. Clair’s holiday traditions—warm, inviting, and flavorful.
Whether you’re hosting a Christmas dinner or attending a potluck, this recipe is an easy way to impress. It’s versatile enough to pair with roasted turkey, glazed ham, or even as a vegetarian centerpiece. Plus, it’s a great way to add some vibrant color to your table—it practically glows with its golden-orange hue!
What Makes This Dish So Special?
The magic of Orange and Maple Roasted Butternut Squash lies in its balance of flavors. Here’s what makes it stand out:
- Butternut Squash: Naturally sweet and buttery, it roasts beautifully to create tender bites with caramelized edges.
- Maple Syrup: Adds a deep, earthy sweetness that complements the squash perfectly.
- Orange Zest and Juice: Brightens up the dish with a citrusy zing that cuts through the richness.
- Thyme: A subtle herbaceous note ties everything together without overpowering the other flavors.
- Olive Oil: Helps everything roast evenly while adding a hint of richness.
The result? A side dish that’s both comforting and refreshing—a rare combination that works wonders during heavy holiday meals.
How to Make It
Even if you’re no pro in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward enough for anyone to pull off. Here’s how you can make it:
Ingredients:
- 1 large butternut squash (about 3 pounds), peeled, seeded, and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- Zest and juice of 1 orange
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Toss the butternut squash cubes with olive oil, maple syrup, orange zest, orange juice, thyme, salt, and pepper until evenly coated in a large mixing bowl.
- Spread the squash out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Overcrowding will prevent proper caramelization, so use two sheets if needed.
- Roast in the oven for about 25–30 minutes or until the squash is tender and slightly caramelized around the edges. Stir halfway through cooking for even roasting.
- Serve warm as a side dish, or enjoy it at room temperature—it’s delicious either way!
Why It Belongs on Your Holiday Table
This dish isn’t just tasty; it’s also practical for holiday cooking chaos. You can prep everything beforehand—peeling and cutting the squash doesn’t have to happen at the last minute—and simply pop it in the oven when needed. Plus, it reheats beautifully if you juggle multiple dishes on Christmas Day.
For those looking to keep things healthy amid all the indulgence of cookies and eggnog, this recipe is naturally gluten-free and can easily be made vegan by ensuring your maple syrup is pure (most are). It’s wholesome without feeling like “health food,” which means everyone at your table will love it—kids included!
Wrap-Up
Orange and Maple Roasted Butternut Squash is more than just food; it’s an experience—a little slice of holiday magic that brings warmth and joy to any gathering in St. Clair this Christmas season. So grab your butternut squash (and maybe an extra bottle of maple syrup), roll up your sleeves, and get roasting! Don’t forget to check out our Christmas Guide 2024 for more recipes like this one—it’ll make your holidays even sweeter!
Source: foodnetwork.com
Header Image Source: foodnetwork.com
