Balsamic Butternut Squash with Kale

Balsamic Butternut Squash with Kale: A Flavorful Fall Delight!

Are you looking for a hearty and delicious dish to celebrate the flavors of autumn? Look no further than Balsamic Butternut Squash with Kale! This vibrant and nutritious recipe combines tender roasted butternut squash with nutrient-rich kale, all tossed in a tangy balsamic glaze. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner party or simply craving a comforting meal, this dish is sure to impress. Join us as we explore the recipe, cooking tips, variations, and even keto and low-carb versions of this delightful dish!

Introduction

As the weather cools and the leaves begin to change, it’s the perfect time to indulge in the rich and comforting flavors of fall. Balsamic Butternut Squash with Kale is a wonderful way to celebrate the season’s bounty, featuring two star ingredients that are as nutritious as they are delicious. Butternut squash adds a natural sweetness and creamy texture, while kale brings a hearty and earthy flavor to the dish. Tossed in a simple yet flavorful balsamic glaze, this dish is a true celebration of autumn’s harvest. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to make this mouthwatering dish!

Ingredients:

For the Balsamic Butternut Squash:

  • 12 oz butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed
  • 1 small yellow onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 tsp vegetable oil
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup vegetable broth
  • 3 tbsp balsamic vinegar
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Kale:

  • 6 oz kale, stems removed and leaves torn into bite-sized pieces

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Prepare the Butternut Squash: Place the cubed butternut squash and sliced onion on a baking sheet. Drizzle with vegetable oil and sprinkle with brown sugar, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
  3. Roast the Squash: Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and roast the butternut squash and onion for 20-25 minutes, or until the squash is tender and caramelized around the edges.
  4. Prepare the Balsamic Glaze: In a small saucepan, combine the vegetable broth and balsamic vinegar. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the mixture has thickened slightly.
  5. Combine the Ingredients: Once the butternut squash is roasted, transfer it to a large bowl. Add the torn kale leaves to the bowl and drizzle with the prepared balsamic glaze. Toss gently to coat the squash and kale evenly with the glaze.
  6. Serve and Enjoy: Transfer the Balsamic Butternut Squash with Kale to a serving platter and serve warm as a delicious side dish or vegetarian main course.

Cook Notes and Variations:

  • Add Protein: For a heartier meal, add protein such as grilled chicken, roasted chickpeas, or tofu cubes to the dish before serving.
  • Boost the Flavor: Enhance the flavor of the dish by adding roasted garlic cloves or sprinkling with crumbled feta cheese or toasted nuts before serving.
  • Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to customize the seasoning blend by adding spices such as smoked paprika, ground cinnamon, or dried thyme to the roasted butternut squash for extra depth of flavor.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

Keto Version: To make a keto-friendly version of Balsamic Butternut Squash with Kale, omit the brown sugar from the recipe and use a sugar-free sweetener such as erythritol or stevia instead. Additionally, reduce the amount of onion used to minimize the carb content.

Low-Carb Version: For a lower-carb option, simply reduce the amount of butternut squash used in the recipe and increase the proportion of kale. You can also swap the brown sugar with a low-carb sweetener such as monk fruit or omit it altogether.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q: Can I use pre-cut butternut squash for this recipe? A: Yes, you can use pre-cut butternut squash to save time. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as pre-cut squash may cook faster than fresh.

Q: Can I use other types of squash in this recipe? A: Absolutely! Feel free to substitute other varieties of winter squash such as acorn squash or kabocha squash for the butternut squash in this recipe. Just keep in mind that different types of squash may have varying cook times.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the roasted butternut squash and balsamic glaze ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply reheat the squash in the oven or microwave, toss with the kale and glaze, and serve immediately.

Balsamic Butternut Squash with Kale is a delightful dish that captures the essence of fall in every bite. With its tender roasted squash, vibrant kale, and tangy balsamic glaze, this recipe is both delicious and nutritious. Whether you’re following a keto diet, looking for a low-carb option, or simply seeking a flavorful vegetarian dish, this recipe has you covered. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to savor the flavors of autumn with this irresistible Balsamic Butternut Squash with Kale!