Roasted Butternut Squash Rounds with Feta & Walnuts

Roasted Butternut Squash Rounds with Feta & Walnuts is a simple yet elegant Mediterranean-inspired side dish that perfectly balances sweet, savoury, creamy and crunchy flavours. Tender roasted butternut squash is lightly caramelised with olive oil and honey or maple syrup, then topped with creamy feta cheese, toasted walnuts and fragrant fresh thyme.

Ideal for weeknight dinners, festive holiday tables or healthy entertaining, this colourful dish is easy to prepare and pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses. Whether served as a side or enjoyed as a light vegetarian meal, it’s packed with flavour and wholesome ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Beautiful balance of sweet and savoury flavours.
• Simple ingredients with elegant presentation.
• Perfect for holidays and everyday meals.
• Mediterranean-inspired and naturally vegetarian.
• Ready in just 40 minutes.

Recipe Information

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 small butternut squash, peeled and cut into 1-inch rounds (seeds removed)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
• ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
• ¼ cup walnuts, chopped and toasted
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
• Pinch of chilli flakes
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Equipment

• Large baking tray
• Parchment paper
• Small skillet
• Sharp knife
• Chopping board
• Serving platter

Method

Step 1: Prepare the Squash

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
3. Arrange the butternut squash rounds in a single layer on the prepared tray.

Step 2: Season

4. Drizzle the squash with the olive oil and honey (or maple syrup).
5. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
6. Turn each round to coat both sides evenly.

Step 3: Roast

7. Bake for 25–30 minutes, turning the squash halfway through cooking.
8. Roast until the squash is tender and lightly caramelised around the edges.

Step 4: Toast the Walnuts

9. While the squash is roasting, toast the chopped walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant.
10. Remove from the heat and allow them to cool slightly.

Step 5: Assemble

11. Transfer the roasted squash rounds to a serving platter.
12. Sprinkle with the crumbled feta, toasted walnuts, fresh thyme leaves and a pinch of chilli flakes.

Step 6: Serve

13. Finish with an extra drizzle of honey or maple syrup if desired.
14. Serve warm as a side dish or as a light vegetarian meal.

Serving Suggestions

• Grilled chicken
• Roasted turkey
• Baked salmon
• Quinoa
• Fresh green salad

Chef’s Tips

• Drizzle with balsamic glaze for added richness.
• Replace the walnuts with pecans or pistachios for a different flavour.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or pomegranate seeds for added colour and freshness.
• Arrange the squash in a single layer to encourage even roasting and caramelisation.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 8–10 minutes, or microwave until warmed through.

Nutritional Information (Approximate Per Serving)

• Calories: 220
• Protein: 6 g
• Carbohydrates: 22 g
• Fat: 14 g
• Fibre: 4 g
• Sugar: 10 g

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use maple syrup instead of honey?

Yes. Maple syrup can be used in place of honey and provides a slightly different but equally delicious sweetness.

Can I substitute the walnuts?

Yes. Pecans or pistachios make excellent alternatives.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

The squash can be roasted in advance and gently reheated before adding the feta, walnuts and fresh herbs.

What main dishes pair well with this recipe?

It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, roasted turkey, baked salmon or quinoa for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Roasted Butternut Squash Rounds with Feta & Walnuts is a colourful, flavour-packed dish that brings together caramelised squash, creamy feta, crunchy toasted walnuts and fragrant herbs in perfect harmony. Easy enough for a weeknight dinner yet elegant enough for holiday entertaining, it’s a versatile recipe you’ll return to throughout the year.

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