Squash Dressing Recipe

In the heart of autumn’s bounty, my Squash Dressing recipe brings forth a symphony of flavors that dance on the palate, capturing the essence of the season. Picture a golden-hued elixir, crafted from the finest harvest of butternut and acorn squash, their natural sweetness elevated by a touch of maple glaze. This dressing is not merely a condiment; it’s an ode to the earth’s abundance and the warmth of the kitchen during cooler days.

The journey begins with the roasting of the squash, imparting a deep, caramelized richness to the dish. As the aromas fill the kitchen, the anticipation builds for the ensemble of complementary ingredients that join this culinary overture. Fragrant herbs, earthy sage, and a whisper of garlic weave together seamlessly, creating a tapestry of flavors that elevate the humble squash to a gourmet sensation. The final touch, a drizzle of olive oil and a splash of apple cider vinegar, adds a harmonious balance, ensuring each spoonful is a culinary crescendo.

Whether gracing the Thanksgiving table or accompanying a simple weeknight salad, this squash dressing transcends the boundaries of ordinary condiments. It’s a celebration of autumn’s bounty, a testament to the artistry of seasonal cooking, and a journey into the heart of comfort and flavor.

So, gather your ingredients, embrace the warmth of the kitchen, and let this squash dressing become the star of your fall culinary repertoire.

What is Squash Dressing?

Squash Dressing is a delectable mixture featuring the rich, sweet flavors of winter squashes such as butternut or acorn. Typically used as a condiment or accompaniment, this dressing boasts a blend of roasted or pureed squash, aromatic herbs like sage, thyme, and garlic, harmonized with olive oil and occasionally sweeteners like maple syrup.

Its versatility shines as a topping for salads, a sauce for roasted vegetables, or a unique twist on traditional stuffing. The essence lies in capturing the earthy sweetness of the squash while elevating it with a symphony of complementary flavors. Whether gracing the Thanksgiving table or enhancing everyday meals, squash dressing, much like the Mayonnaise Dressing, offers a delightful culinary journey, celebrating the bounty of autumn and the artistry of seasonal cooking.

Easy Squash Dressing Recipe

Elevate your autumn meals with a luscious squash dressing, blending roasted butternut and acorn squash with aromatic herbs and a hint of sweetness for a gourmet, seasonal flavor.

4.75 from 8 votes

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Course: Dips and Sauces

Cuisine: American

Prep Time: 20 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 40 minutes minutes

Resting Time: 15 minutes minutes

Total Time: 1 hour hour 15 minutes minutes

Calories: 30kcal

Author: Austin Carter

Servings: 2 tbsp. per person

Equipment

• ▢
  Baking Dish
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  Parchment Paper
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  Chef's Knife
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  Cutting Board
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  Food Processor or Blender
• ▢
  Measuring Spoons and Cups
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  Oven and Oven Mitts
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  Spatula
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  Small Bowl
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  Garlic Press
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  Storage Containers

Ingredients

• ▢ 1 medium-sized butternut squash peeled, seeded, and diced
• ▢ 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ▢ 1 teaspoon dried sage
• ▢ 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• ▢ 2 cloves garlic minced
• ▢ Salt and pepper to taste
• ▢ 2 tablespoons maple syrup optional, for sweetness
• ▢ 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• ▢ Extra-virgin olive oil for drizzling optional

Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Place the diced butternut squash on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with dried sage, thyme, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Toss the squash to coat evenly.
• Roast in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes or until the squash is tender and lightly caramelized.
• Allow the roasted squash to cool slightly. Transfer the squash to a blender or food processor.
• Add maple syrup (if using) and apple cider vinegar. Blend until smooth, adjusting the consistency with a little water if needed.
• Taste the dressing and adjust salt, pepper, and other seasonings according to your preference.
• Transfer the dressing to a serving dish. Drizzle with extra-virgin olive oil if desired.
• Use the butternut squash dressing as a flavorful topping for salads, roasted vegetables, or as a side dish for your favorite meals.

Notes

1. Squash Selection: Choose fresh, ripe butternut or acorn squash for optimal flavor and texture.
2. Even Roasting: Ensure uniform roasting of squash cubes to achieve a caramelized, sweet taste.
3. Seasoning Balance: Find the right balance of herbs, garlic, salt, and pepper for a well-rounded flavor profile.
4. Consistency Matters: Achieve a smooth and creamy dressing by blending the roasted squash thoroughly.
5. Personalize: Feel free to customize with additional herbs or spices to suit your taste preferences.

Nutrition

Calories: 30kcal

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NUTRITIONAL FACTS (PER SERVING)

Tips for Best Results!

1. Fresh Ingredients: Start with fresh and high-quality butternut or acorn squash for the best flavor and texture.
2. Uniform Cubes: Ensure even-sized cubes when chopping the squash for uniform roasting. This promotes consistent caramelization and doneness.
3. Precise Seasoning: Balance the use of herbs, garlic, salt, and pepper to achieve a well-rounded flavor profile. Taste and adjust as needed.
4. Thorough Blending: Allow the roasted squash to cool slightly before blending to a smooth consistency. This ensures a creamy and velvety dressing.
5. Temperature Awareness: Be mindful of oven temperature when roasting squash; too high a temperature may cause uneven cooking or excessive browning.
6. Customization: Feel free to personalize the dressing by adding favorite herbs or spices to match your taste preferences.
7. Maple Syrup Balance: If using maple syrup for sweetness, add gradually and taste-test to achieve the desired level of sweetness without overpowering the other flavors.
8. Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator; flavors often meld and intensify after some time.
9. Drizzling Technique: When adding olive oil as a finishing touch, drizzle it over the dressing in a thin stream while stirring to incorporate evenly.
10. Serve Fresh: For optimal flavor, serve the dressing fresh, especially when using it as a topping for salads or warm dishes.

By following these tips, you’ll enhance the overall taste and quality of your roasted butternut squash dressing, creating a delightful addition to your meals.

PRO TIP: Roast garlic separately for added depth. Toss in oil, roast, then blend with squash for nuanced, mellow flavor.

Dishes Best Served with Squash Dressing

1. Carne Asada
2. Chicken Spaghetti
3. Reuben Sandwich
4. Creamy Tacos
5. Fried Zucchini Chips