This comforting Butternut Squash and Rice Bowl combines roasted butternut squash with flavorful rice and seasonal spices. It's a nutritious and hearty dish that can be enjoyed as a main course or a side.
Butternut Squash and Rice Bowl
Rated 5.0 stars by 2 users
Category
Main dish / Vegetarian
Servings
4
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
30-40 minutes
Experience the comforting flavors of autumn with this Butternut Squash and Rice Bowl. This hearty dish features tender, roasted butternut squash that caramelizes beautifully in the oven, paired with fluffy rice cooked in savory vegetable broth. Enhanced with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, it offers a delightful balance of sweetness and earthiness.
Topped with your choice of nuts for crunch, fresh herbs for brightness, and optional additions like crumbled cheese or dried fruit, this bowl is versatile and satisfying. Perfect as a main course or a side dish, it celebrates the season's bounty and provides a nutritious, wholesome meal that warms the soul. Enjoy it as a comforting dinner or a vibrant lunch, packed with flavor and goodness!
Ingredients
For the Bowl:
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced (about 4 cups)
- 1 cup uncooked rice (brown or white)
- 2 cups vegetable broth (or water)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup pecans or walnuts, chopped (optional)
- Fresh herbs for garnish (like parsley or cilantro)
- For Optional Toppings:
- Crumbled feta cheese or goat cheese
- Dried cranberries or raisins
- Sliced avocado
- A drizzle of balsamic glaze or tahini
Directions
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Roast the Butternut Squash: the diced butternut squash with olive oil, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Spread it in a single layer on a baking sheet.Roast for about 25-30 minutes, or until the squash is tender and lightly caramelized, flipping halfway through.
Cook the Rice: the squash is roasting, rinse the rice under cold water. In a saucepan, bring the vegetable broth (or water) to a boil.Add the rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer according to package instructions (usually about 15-20 minutes for white rice, 40-45 minutes for brown rice). Remove from heat and let it sit covered for a few minutes.
Combine: the cooked rice with a fork. If desired, stir in chopped nuts for added crunch.
Assemble the Bowl: the rice between serving bowls and top with roasted butternut squash. Add your choice of toppings, such as cheese, dried fruit, or avocado.
Serve: with fresh herbs and drizzle with balsamic glaze or tahini if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Recipe Note
Meal Prep: This bowl can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat before serving.
Customizations: Feel free to add cooked beans or lentils for extra protein, or include sautéed greens like spinach or kale for more veggies.
Spice Variations: Experiment with spices like cayenne for heat, or paprika for a smokier flavor.