Butternut Squash & Broccolini Boat: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Dish
If you're a fan of comfort food, you're in for a treat. We're taking a classic favorite, Spaghetti Squash Lasagna with Broccolini, and giving it a twist by using butternut squash as our vessel. This Butternut Squash & Broccolini Boat is a hearty, nutritious, and visually stunning dish that will impress your taste buds and your dinner guests. Let's dive into the recipe and explore the wonderful world of squash-based comfort food.
Ingredients:
- 1 butternut squash, halved and seeds removed
- 1 bunch of broccolini, chopped
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon of crushed red pepper (optional, for a little heat)
- 2 tablespoons of water
- 1 cup of shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/4 cup of shredded Parmesan cheese, divided
- 3/4 teaspoon of Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of ground pepper
Instructions:
1. Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it's heating up, prepare the butternut squash. Cut it in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds, creating two "boats."
2. In a large skillet, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped broccolini, minced garlic, and the optional crushed red pepper if you want a bit of heat. Sauté until the broccolini is tender and slightly browned.
3. Add the Italian seasoning, salt, and ground pepper to the broccolini and garlic mixture. Stir well to combine.
4. Place the butternut squash "boats" on a baking sheet or in a baking dish. Divide the broccolini filling between the two boats, filling each one generously.
5. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the broccolini filling in each boat.
6. Cover the baking sheet or dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 45-55 minutes, or until the butternut squash is tender.
7. For a golden, bubbly crust, uncover the boats and broil for an additional 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
8. Once the butternut squash is tender and the cheese is golden and bubbling, remove the boats from the oven. Let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
Why You'll Love It:
- Nutrient-Rich: Butternut squash is a fantastic source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making this dish a nutritional powerhouse.
- Low in Calories: This dish is low in calories but high in flavor, making it an excellent choice for those looking to enjoy a filling, comforting meal without an excess of calories.
- Eye-Catching Presentation: The vibrant colors of the butternut squash and broccolini make this dish a feast for the eyes as well as the taste buds.
- Versatile: You can easily customize the filling to suit your taste. Add some ground turkey, substitute different cheeses, or toss in your favorite herbs and spices.
The Butternut Squash & Broccolini Boat is a delightful twist on a classic recipe. It combines the rich, sweet flavor of butternut squash with the earthy notes of broccolini and the savory goodness of cheese. This dish is perfect for a cozy night in, a family dinner, or a special occasion. Enjoy the comfort of a classic with the health benefits of wholesome ingredients. Perfect for a holiday dinner side-dish ;-) Bon appétit!