As the harvest season approaches, nothing brings the warmth of autumn into the kitchen like squash. This humble vegetable, available in a variety of shapes and sizes, pairs beautifully with raw honey to create a dish that’s both nourishing and delicious. Whether you're enjoying it as a side dish, a snack, or a simple dessert, this baked squash with raw honey is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
At our farm, we love incorporating fresh, homegrown produce into every meal. This recipe highlights the rich, earthy flavors of squash and the natural sweetness of raw honey – a perfect combination for a cozy, healthy dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium-sized winter squash (butternut, acorn, or delicata work well)
- 3 tablespoons of raw honey from Mayberry Farms
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil or melted butter
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- Pinch of salt
- Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. **Preheat the Oven**: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats, you’ll have plenty of time to prepare the squash.
2. **Prepare the Squash**:
- Slice the squash in half lengthwise and remove the seeds.
- Peel the skin if necessary (some varieties, like delicata, have edible skin), and cut the squash into thick slices or cubes for even roasting.
3. **Season the Squash**:
- In a bowl, toss the squash pieces with olive oil or melted butter, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Sprinkle a pinch of salt over the squash and, if you enjoy a bit of spice, dust it with cinnamon.
4. **Drizzle with Honey**:
- Lay the squash out on a lined baking sheet. Drizzle the raw honey generously over the top of the squash. Make sure every piece has a bit of honey, but don’t overdo it—raw honey has a potent sweetness.
5. **Bake**:
- Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the squash is golden brown and tender. Check occasionally to ensure the honey isn’t burning; you want a nice caramelization.
6. **Serve**:
- Once done, remove the squash from the oven and garnish with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an extra layer of flavor.
Why Raw Honey?
Using raw honey instead of processed sweeteners not only enhances the natural flavors of the squash but also adds a wealth of health benefits. Raw honey is rich in antioxidants, enzymes, and minerals, making it a far more nutritious alternative to refined sugars. It complements the earthy notes of squash beautifully, creating a sweet-savory dish that feels indulgent yet wholesome.
Farm-to-Table Goodness
This baked squash with raw honey is a perfect example of how simple ingredients, grown and harvested with care, can create a truly special dish. Whether you’re growing squash in your own garden or picking some up from a local farmer’s market, this recipe celebrates the rich flavors of the season.
Enjoy this sweet and savory delight, and let the natural beauty of farm-fresh produce shine through on your plate!
Final Thoughts
Squash baked with raw honey is a versatile dish that can easily adapt to your taste preferences. Whether you add a dash of cinnamon for warmth or garnish it with herbs for a bit of freshness, this recipe will help you enjoy the fruits (or veggies!) of the harvest season to the fullest.
