Description
This Za’atar Roasted Butternut Squash recipe offers a flavorful and aromatic way to enjoy tender, roasted squash seasoned with a fragrant Middle Eastern za’atar blend. Perfect as a side dish or a warm salad component, this dish combines the natural sweetness of butternut squash with the earthy, herbaceous notes of za’atar and a touch of olive oil, making it a simple yet impressive addition to any meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 1 large butternut squash (about 3 pounds), peeled, seeded, and cut into 1-inch chunks
- 2 tablespoons good olive oil
- 1 tablespoon za’atar seasoning
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature for roasting the squash evenly.
- Season the Squash: In a large bowl, toss the butternut squash chunks with the olive oil, za’atar seasoning, and kosher salt until they are evenly coated. This will help the spices stick and enhance the flavor during roasting.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Spread the seasoned squash pieces out on a parchment-lined sheet pan. Make sure to leave space between the chunks so they roast rather than steam, which results in a better texture.
- Roast Until Tender: Bake the squash in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes. Halfway through baking, flip the squash pieces using a spatula to ensure they cook evenly and get a nice roast on all sides. The squash is done when it is tender and slightly caramelized.
Notes
- For an extra crisp texture, avoid overcrowding the pan to allow steam to escape during roasting.
- Za’atar seasoning typically contains thyme, sumac, and sesame seeds; if unavailable, you can substitute with equal parts dried thyme and sesame seeds mixed with a pinch of lemon zest.
- You can add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of fresh parsley after roasting for additional brightness.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best texture.
