Savory Butternut Squash with Spinach, Feta, and Crispy Bacon
Introduction
Butternut squash, with its creamy texture and sweet flavor, has earned its place as one of the most beloved fall vegetables. This versatile squash can be used in a wide variety of dishes, from soups and stews to salads and savory stuffed recipes. Today, we’re focusing on a dish that blends the richness of roasted butternut squash with the savory flavors of spinach, feta, and crispy bacon—a combination that will have your taste buds doing a happy dance!
This Savory Butternut Squash with Spinach, Feta, and Crispy Bacon recipe is a perfect example of how to elevate simple ingredients into something special. The natural sweetness of the butternut squash pairs perfectly with the salty bacon and tangy feta cheese, while the spinach adds a touch of earthiness. The result is a dish that’s not only delicious but also visually stunning, making it the perfect choice for a cozy dinner at home or as a show-stopping side at your holiday table.
In this recipe, the butternut squash serves as both the vessel and the star of the show. Roasting the squash brings out its natural sweetness and tenderness, making it the ideal base for this flavorful filling. The spinach, cooked just until wilted, adds a vibrant green color and a healthy dose of nutrients. The feta cheese, with its crumbly texture and sharp, salty taste, perfectly complements the other ingredients. Meanwhile, the crispy bacon crumbles add a savory crunch that takes this dish to the next level.
Let’s dive into the recipe and break down how to make this savory dish!
Ingredients:
Before we start cooking, let’s take a moment to gather all the ingredients you’ll need for this recipe. This is a simple dish to prepare, but the combination of flavors makes it feel luxurious and satisfying. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 medium butternut squashes (halved and seeds removed): The butternut squash is the star of the show. Its sweet, nutty flavor and creamy texture are enhanced by the roasting process, making it the perfect vessel for the filling.
- 3 tbsp olive oil (divided): Olive oil adds moisture to the squash and helps it roast to perfection. You’ll use a portion of the olive oil for drizzling on the squash before roasting, and the rest will be used to sauté the spinach.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Garlic powder adds a subtle, aromatic flavor that complements the natural sweetness of the butternut squash.
- 2 cups spinach (chopped): Fresh spinach is a great choice for this dish. It adds a pop of green color, and when cooked, it wilts down to create a tender texture that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients.
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese: Feta cheese is a perfect pairing for roasted squash. It’s tangy, salty, and slightly creamy, which adds both richness and brightness to the dish.
- 4 strips bacon (cooked and crumbled): Bacon brings a smoky, salty crunch that balances out the creamy squash and the tangy feta. The crispy texture also adds a delightful contrast to the softer squash.
- Salt and pepper to taste: These essential seasonings help bring out the flavors of the dish. Be sure to season your squash and filling well for the best results.
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme (optional): Fresh thyme adds a fragrant herbal note that enhances the savory elements of the dish. It’s optional, but it definitely elevates the flavor profile.
Directions:
This recipe involves a few simple steps, each designed to enhance the flavors of the ingredients and make the most of the butternut squash. While there’s some wait time for the squash to roast, the process is fairly straightforward. Here’s how to make this savory dish:
1. Preheat the oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Roasting the butternut squash at this temperature ensures that it becomes tender and caramelized, bringing out its natural sweetness. Place the butternut squash halves on a baking sheet and drizzle with 1 1/2 tablespoons of olive oil. Use a pastry brush or your hands to evenly coat the flesh of the squash with the olive oil. This helps to roast the squash evenly and enhances its flavor.
Sprinkle garlic powder, salt, and pepper over the squash. Garlic powder adds a subtle yet aromatic flavor that complements the squash, and the salt and pepper help to bring out the natural sweetness and savory notes.
2. Roast the squash
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the squash for 30-35 minutes. You’ll want to check the squash after about 25 minutes to ensure it is cooking evenly. The squash is done when the flesh is tender and can easily be pierced with a fork. The edges may begin to caramelize slightly, adding a depth of flavor.
Once the squash is done, remove it from the oven and set it aside to cool for a few minutes. Let the squash rest while you prepare the filling.
3. Prepare the filling
While the squash roasts, heat the remaining 1 1/2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped spinach to the skillet. Cook the spinach for about 2-3 minutes, just until it wilts down. Stir occasionally to ensure the spinach cooks evenly. Be careful not to overcook the spinach; you want it to stay bright green and tender.
Once the spinach is wilted, remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the crumbled bacon and feta cheese. The heat from the spinach will melt the feta slightly, making it creamy, and the bacon will add a smoky crunch to the filling. Mix everything together and season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
4. Stuff the squash
Once the squash has cooled enough to handle, use a spoon to scoop out some of the flesh, leaving a border around the edges to create a hollow space for the filling. Be careful not to scoop out too much of the squash, as you want to leave enough for the filling to sit on top. Mash the scooped-out squash flesh with a fork and then stir it into the spinach, bacon, and feta mixture.
This step creates a cohesive and flavorful filling that brings together all the ingredients into a delicious, hearty mixture.
5. Fill the squash
Spoon the spinach, bacon, and feta filling back into the butternut squash halves. Be sure to pack the filling in, but don’t press too hard. You want the filling to stay light and fluffy. Return the stuffed squash halves to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and for the squash to heat through.
6. Serve
Once the stuffed squash halves are done, remove them from the oven and allow them to rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish the dish with fresh thyme for a fragrant and visually appealing touch, if desired. Serve the stuffed squash warm, either as a main dish or as a side to complement your meal.
Nutritional Information:
For each serving of Savory Butternut Squash with Spinach, Feta, and Crispy Bacon, you can expect the following nutritional breakdown:
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Protein: 9g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 8g
This dish is perfect for those looking to enjoy a satisfying meal without the heaviness of traditional starch-heavy sides. With the addition of spinach, feta, and bacon, you’re getting a nutrient-dense, flavorful option that will fill you up without weighing you down.
Serving Suggestions:
This Savory Butternut Squash with Spinach, Feta, and Crispy Bacon can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some ideas to make it a part of a complete meal:
- As a side dish: Pair this stuffed squash with your favorite protein, such as roasted chicken, grilled steak, or pan-seared fish. The savory flavors of the squash complement a wide range of proteins, making it a versatile side.
- For a vegetarian meal: Add some quinoa or rice on the side to complete the meal. The quinoa will absorb the rich flavors of the squash and add a bit of texture to the dish.
- As a holiday dish: Serve it alongside a roast turkey or ham at your Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner. The autumn flavors and beautiful presentation will impress your guests.
- For meal prep: This dish stores well in the fridge for 3-4 days, making it a great option for meal prepping. Simply store the stuffed squash in an airtight container and reheat in the microwave or oven.
Conclusion
This Savory Butternut Squash with Spinach, Feta, and Crispy Bacon recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to enjoy the flavors of fall in a healthy yet indulgent way. The combination of roasted squash, creamy feta, savory bacon, and wilted spinach creates a dish that’s as satisfying as it is flavorful. It’s easy to make, and the results are sure to impress!
Whether you serve it as a side dish, a main course, or as part of a holiday spread, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. So grab a butternut squash, fire up the oven, and enjoy the deliciousness that awaits you!
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