The Butternut Squash & Quinoa Bowls are a vibrant explosion of flavors and textures. Imagine creamy, roasted butternut squash paired with nutty quinoa, all drizzled with a zesty dressing that dances on your taste buds. This dish is not just food; it’s a celebration of autumn flavors that can brighten any meal. For more inspiration, check out this Garlic Butter Green Beans recipe.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it Together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- What can I substitute for quinoa in this recipe?
- Can I make this dish vegan?
- How do I know when butternut squash is done roasting?
- 📖 Recipe Card
As I recall the first time I made these bowls, it was during a chilly fall evening. My family gathered around the table, and I could see their eyes light up as the aroma filled the room. This dish is perfect for cozy dinners or as a wholesome lunch during busy weekdays. Get ready for an amazing flavor experience!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Butternut Squash & Quinoa Bowls are easy to whip up, making meal prep a breeze
- The flavor profile is rich and satisfying, combining sweetness and nuttiness beautifully
- Visually stunning with its warm colors, this dish will impress anyone at your dinner table
- Versatile enough to be served warm or cold, it’s perfect for any occasion!
This recipe always gets my family excited about dinner, with everyone asking for seconds after the first bite.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Butternut Squash: Choose firm squash that feels heavy for its size; it should have a smooth skin and be free of blemishes.
- Quinoa: Rinse well before cooking to remove any bitterness; it cooks perfectly fluffy and adds great texture.
- Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for its robust flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the bowl.
- Garlic Powder: A sprinkle brings depth to the dish without overpowering other flavors; it’s an essential ingredient!
- Cumin: Adds warmth and an earthy quality that perfectly complements the sweetness of butternut squash. maple pecan cookies flavorful sweet potato donuts.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust to your own taste preferences as you go along.
- Fresh Parsley or Cilantro: Adds a fresh finish and brightens up the flavors significantly.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s warming up, chop your butternut squash into 1-inch cubes and set aside.
Season and Roast the Squash: Toss your cubed squash in a bowl with olive oil, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper until evenly coated. Spread them out on a baking sheet and roast until tender for about 25-30 minutes.
Cook the Quinoa: While your squash roasts away like a champ, rinse 1 cup of quinoa under cold water. In a pot, combine quinoa with 2 cups of water or broth. Bring it to a boil over medium heat before reducing to low. Cover and simmer until all liquid is absorbed—about 15 minutes.
Toss Everything Together: Once everything is nicely cooked (and smelling divine), fluff your quinoa with a fork before adding in the roasted squash. Mix gently to combine without mashing anything.
Add Fresh Herbs and Serve!: Top off your bowls with chopped parsley or cilantro for a delightful freshness. zesty lemon orzo salad Drizzle more olive oil or even some lemon juice if you want an extra zing!
These Butternut Squash & Quinoa Bowls are not just visually appealing but also packed with nutrients that keep you feeling great! Enjoy every flavorful bite!
You Must Know
- Butternut squash brings a sweet, nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with quinoa’s fluffy texture
- This combo creates a filling meal that’s perfect for any season
- Don’t skip roasting the squash; it enhances the flavors and adds a delightful caramelized touch!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Begin by roasting your butternut squash to bring out its natural sweetness. While it’s in the oven, cook the quinoa according to package directions for perfectly fluffy grains. Combine everything at the end for a harmony of flavors and textures.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out quinoa for farro or rice if you’re feeling adventurous. Toss in some spinach or kale for extra nutrition, or sprinkle with feta cheese for a salty kick. Personalize this bowl however you like! For more inspiration, check out this Strawberry Spinach Salad recipe.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat gently in the microwave, adding a splash of water to keep everything moist. Enjoy your gourmet creation again without sacrificing taste!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To get the best flavor, roast butternut squash until caramelized and tender; it makes all the difference
- Make sure your quinoa is rinsed well before cooking to remove bitterness
- Adding fresh herbs at the end brightens up this dish beautifully!
Sometimes, my friends joke that my butternut squash & quinoa bowls are my love language, especially when they ask for seconds! It’s such a joy to see their faces light up with each bite. light ground beef lettuce wraps.
FAQ
What can I substitute for quinoa in this recipe?
Try using rice, farro, or even couscous as great alternatives.
Can I make this dish vegan?
Absolutely! This recipe is already plant-based and packed with nutrients.
How do I know when butternut squash is done roasting?
It’s ready when tender and caramelized around the edges, usually after 25-30 minutes at 400°F.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Butternut Squash & Quinoa Bowls
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Butternut Squash & Quinoa Bowls are a delightful blend of roasted butternut squash and fluffy quinoa, drizzled with a zesty dressing that brings autumn flavors to life. This vibrant dish is perfect for cozy dinners or healthy lunches, offering a satisfying combination of sweetness and nuttiness. Quick to prepare and visually stunning, it’s an impressive meal that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 2 cups butternut squash (cubed)
- 1 cup quinoa (rinsed)
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Chop the butternut squash into 1-inch cubes.
- Toss the cubed squash in a bowl with olive oil, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 25–30 minutes until tender.
- Rinse quinoa under cold water. In a pot, combine quinoa with 2 cups of water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to low and simmer for about 15 minutes until liquid is absorbed.
- Fluff the cooked quinoa with a fork, add the roasted squash, and gently mix.
- Top with chopped parsley or cilantro before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (300g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 240mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
