ROASTED BUTTERNUT SQUASH and QUINOA BOWL
This Roasted Butternut Squash and Quinoa Bowl is a wholesome and nutrient-dense meal perfect for any time of the day, with a base of fluffy quinoa and tender roasted butternut squash. This dish delivers a comforting balance of textures and flavours. A touch of cinnamon enhances the natural sweetness of the squash, while olive oil provides a hint of richness. This simple yet satisfying meal is packed with fibre, vitamins and plant-based protein, making it an excellent choice for those looking for a nutritious and easy-to-prepare dish. Whether enjoyed as a light lunch, a side dish or a hearty snack, this recipe is adaptable and can be customised with additional ingredients for added variety. Plus, the Roasted Butternut Squash and Quinoa Bowl is naturally gluten-free and vegetarian-friendly, making it suitable for a range of dietary preferences.
RECIPE CATEGORY
Lunch, Dinner, Side
SERVING SIZE
1
CUISINE
Mediterranean
PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES
Roast, Prepare in Advance
OCCASION/HOLIDAY
Fall, Winter, Thanksgiving, Picnic, Potluck
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS
Healthy, High Fibre, Low Fat, Vegan, Vegetarian, Wheat/Gluten-Free
DISH TYPE
Bowl
INGREDIENTS
The following are the ingredients for the preparation of Roasted Butternut Squash and Quinoa Bowl:
- 50 grams | 1.76 ounces | cooked quinoa
- 50 grams | 1.76 ounces | butternut squash, cubed
- 5 millilitres | 0.08 fluid ounces | ½ teaspoon olive oil
- 1 gram | 0.04 ounces | ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- 36 grams | 0.01 ounces | pinch sea salt
- 36 grams | 0.01 ounces | pinch black pepper
FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
- Calories: 122 kilocalories
- Protein: 2.6 grams
- Fat: 2.7 grams
- Saturated Fat: 0.4 grams
- Carbohydrate: 22.5 grams
- Sugars: 2.6 grams
- Fibre: 3.2 grams
- Sodium: 11 milligrams
PREPARATION
- Preheat Oven: Set the oven to 200 degrees Celsius and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- Prepare The Squash: Peel and cut the butternut squash into uniform cubes for even cooking.
- Season The Squash: Toss the cubes with olive oil, cinnamon, salt and pepper in a mixing bowl until evenly coated.
- Arrange On Tray: Spread the squash in a single layer on the baking tray, ensuring the pieces do not overlap.
- Roast: Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and tender.
- Cook The Quinoa: If not already prepared, cook the quinoa according to package instructions.
- Fluff The Quinoa: Use a fork to separate the grains and let it cool slightly before mixing.
- Combine Ingredients: In a serving bowl, mix the roasted butternut squash with the quinoa, gently tossing to combine.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the dish and add more salt, pepper or cinnamon as needed.
- Serve: Enjoy warm with an optional drizzle of olive oil or an extra sprinkle of cinnamon.
PREPARATION TIME
5 minutes
COOKING TIME
25 minutes
TIPS
Here are some tips for the preparation of Roasted Butternut Squash and Quinoa Bowl:
- Even Roasting: Cut the butternut squash into uniform cubes for even cooking. This ensures all pieces roast at the same rate.
- Extra Crispiness: If you prefer caramelised edges, roast for an additional 5 minutes or increase the oven temperature slightly in the last few minutes.
- Flavour Boost: Add a drizzle of maple syrup before roasting to enhance the natural sweetness of the butternut squash.
- Efficient Preparation: Use pre-cut butternut squash to save time on chopping.
- Serving Ideas: Enjoy this bowl on its own or pair it with fresh greens like arugula or spinach for added freshness.
VARIATIONS
- Protein Boost: Add chickpeas, grilled tofu or a sprinkle of hemp seeds to increase protein content.
- Nutty Crunch: Top with toasted almonds, pecans or walnuts for added texture and flavour.
- Leafy Greens: Serve over a bed of spinach, kale or mixed greens to turn it into a more substantial salad.
- Spicy Twist: For a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper, smoked paprika or red pepper flakes.
- Citrus Freshness: A squeeze of fresh lemon or orange juice before serving can brighten up the flavours.
- Dressing Option: Drizzle with a tahini dressing or balsamic glaze for an extra layer of flavour.
PREPPING AND STORAGE
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This recipe makes it an excellent option for meal preparation.
- Freezing: While quinoa freezes well, it’s best to store the roasted squash separately to maintain its texture. Freeze the squash in a sealed container for up to 2 months and defrost overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm in the microwave for 1 to 2 minutes or in the oven at 180 degrees Celsius for 5 to 10 minutes until heated through.
- Make-Ahead Tip: You can roast the butternut squash in advance and store it separately. When ready to serve, combine it with freshly cooked quinoa for a quick meal.
