Cozy Roasted Butternut Squash & Quinoa Recipe | Warm Fall Grain Bowl with Maple Vinaigrette
This Cozy Roasted Butternut Squash & Quinoa is a hearty, wholesome dish that celebrates fall flavors in every bite. Tender roasted butternut squash, fluffy quinoa, and earthy greens are tossed with toasted nuts, dried cranberries, and a light maple vinaigrette for a satisfying blend of sweet, savory, and nutty. It’s perfect as a vegetarian main or a festive side dish, and it’s packed with fiber, protein, and seasonal comfort. Great for meal prep, holiday tables, or cozy weeknight dinners.
Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper (optional)
- Medium saucepan with lid
- Mixing bowl
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Fork or spatula
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup quinoa (white or tri-color)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder or 2 cloves minced garlic
- 1 tsp dried thyme or 1 tbsp fresh herbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Add-ins:
- Feta or goat cheese
- Dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds
- Toasted pecans or pumpkin seeds
- Arugula or spinach
- Red onion or leeks
Instructions
- Preheat Oven Set oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare Squash Peel and cube squash. Toss with olive oil, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Spread evenly on baking sheet.
- Roast Squash Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and tender.
- Cook Quinoa Rinse quinoa. In a saucepan, combine 1 cup quinoa with 2 cups water or vegetable broth. Bring to boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes. Fluff with fork.
- Combine In a large bowl, mix roasted squash and cooked quinoa. Add optional toppings and toss gently.
- Serve Serve warm or chilled. Garnish with fresh herbs and drizzle with dressing if desired.
Notes
- Make-Ahead: Store in airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: Microwave or warm in skillet with splash of broth.
- Freezing: Can be frozen—thaw overnight and reheat.
- Flavor Tip: Use vegetable broth instead of water for richer quinoa.
- Texture Tip: Keep dressing separate until serving to preserve freshness.
- Nutrition Boost: Add leafy greens for extra micronutrients.
- Avoid Mistakes: Roast squash until fork-tender, rinse quinoa to remove bitterness, and season well.