It’s the Perfect Time of Year for a Side of Squash

It’s the Perfect Time of Year for a Side of Squash
Earthy-sweet roasted butternut squash, mashed with cumin and sage, makes a colorful side dish for an autumnal meal. Cavan-Images/Shutterstock
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Roasting butternut squash brings out its inherent sweetness by lightly caramelizing it. I’ve served the roasted squash as is with a drizzle of balsamic syrup or a sprinkling of fresh herbs atop, but in this recipe, I decided to mash it up with a few herbs to bring the flavors together.

I like to use a potato masher for a coarse mashed texture. You can also use your hand blender or food processor, which will give you a smoother result.

Cumin and sage add a layer of flavor that enhances the squash. This is a colorful side dish that complements most poultry and lamb. It is, of course, a happy add-on to any holiday table as well.

You can now find peeled and cut-up squash at most markets to make this seriously simple. If you can’t find them prepared, you can look for a 3-pound butternut squash and carefully peel it with either a sharp knife or a serrated peeler. Scoop out the seeds and cut it into small pieces.

Roasting butternut squash brings out its inherent sweetness. (MarinaP/Shutterstock)
Roasting butternut squash brings out its inherent sweetness. MarinaP/Shutterstock

Roasted Butternut Squash Mash

Serves 4 to 6
  • 2 pounds butternut squash, peeled and cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt
  • Black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh sage
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F.

Spoon squash onto a baking sheet with a lip and add olive oil, salt, and pepper, tossing to evenly coat. Spread the squash out into a single layer.

Roast for about 35 to 40 minutes, stirring twice, until lightly caramelized.

Remove baking sheet from oven and transfer the squash into a large bowl. With a potato masher, mash the squash until smooth. Add the sage and cumin and mix to combine. Taste for seasoning. Serve immediately.

Advance Preparation: This dish may be prepared up to one day ahead, covered, and refrigerated. Reheat gently on medium heat. Adjust the seasonings, if needed.
Diane Rossen Worthington
Diane Rossen Worthington
Author
Diane Rossen Worthington is an authority on new American cooking. She is the author of 18 cookbooks, including "Seriously Simple Parties," and a James Beard Award-winning radio show host. You can contact her at SeriouslySimple.com. Copyright 2021 Diane Rossen Worthington. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
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