
I fell head over heels for this roasted butternut squash dish one fall day in my kitchen. It's turned into my guilty pleasure when the first leaves start dropping. Magic happens when the butternut's sweetness meets the salty feta, all wrapped up in golden honey. It's a real treat that warms your soul and takes your taste buds on a journey.
Delightful Autumn Flavor Symphony
What gets me hooked on this dish is the absolutely heavenly mix of textures. The butternut gets wonderfully soft while the walnuts add their tasty crunch. The honey pairs beautifully with the feta, creating this perfect dance between sweet and salty. The herbs and smoked paprika come in to gently flavor everything.
Shopping List
- 1 butternut squash: I pick one that's nice and firm with great color.
- Olive oil: The finest I've got in my kitchen.
- 1 garlic clove: Freshly chopped for extra aroma.
- 1 tablespoon honey: My favorite acacia honey.
- Smoked paprika: Just a dash is enough to transport you.
- Herbs de Provence: The ones from my little garden.
- Sea salt and pepper: To bring out the flavors.
- Feta cheese: The real deal, nice and creamy.
- Walnuts and pine nuts: Always fresh for better taste.
Step-by-Step Guide
- Prepping the butternut completely
- I cut it in half and make pretty crosshatch cuts. That's my little trick to make sure the marinade soaks in well.
- My wonderful marinade
- I lovingly mix all my ingredients – olive oil, smooth honey, fragrant garlic, my favorite spices. Then I generously brush my butternut.
- Gentle baking
- One hour at 190°C, no more no less. I watch carefully for the right color.
- The best part
- I take my dish from the oven, crumble the warm feta, drizzle honey slowly, and top with my golden walnuts and pine nuts. Pure indulgence.
My Little Tips
I always go for a medium-sized butternut for perfect cooking. My favorite trick is toasting the walnuts and pine nuts in a pan before adding them. It really brings out their flavors.

My Personal Twists
Sometimes I swap the feta for a nice fresh goat cheese that goes wonderfully with honey. I also like adding toasted pumpkin seeds for even more character. A drop of balsamic to finish and it's absolute heaven.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do you pick a good butternut?
- Look for one with matte skin, no spots or bruises. It should feel heavy for its size and have a uniform beige-orangey color.
- → Can I prep this dish beforehand?
- Sure! Prep the butternut and seasoning early. Add feta and nuts just before serving to keep them fresh and crunchy.
- → How do I know when the butternut is cooked?
- It’s ready when the flesh is soft enough for a knife to slide through easily. The surface should be golden and slightly caramelized.
- → Is there a substitute for feta?
- Swap it with goat cheese or burrata. For a vegan option, try pickled veggies or olives instead.
- → What can I do with butternut seeds?
- Clean, dry, and roast them with spices. They’re a crunchy topping for salads or this dish.