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Butternut Squash Crostini

Butternut Squash Crostini
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These easy Butternut Squash Crostini recipes offer a delightful seasonal appetizer featuring roasted butternut squash on crispy toasted bread, topped with creamy cheese, fresh herbs, and crunchy nuts or seeds. Perfect for entertaining or a quick snack, they balance sweetness, texture, and vibrant colors in a simple yet impressive dish.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables and Bread

  • 1 medium butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed
  • 1 baguette or artisan bread, sliced into 1/2 inch rounds

Oils and Seasonings

  • 2–3 tablespoons olive oil, plus extra for brushing bread
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon or smoked paprika

Herbs

  • Fresh thyme, rosemary, or sage (about 1-2 teaspoons, chopped)

Cheese Options

  • Goat cheese, ricotta, or Parmesan (about 4 ounces total)

Nuts and Seeds

  • Toasted walnuts, pecans, or pumpkin seeds (1/4 cup)

Optional Garnishes & Variations

  • Honey or balsamic glaze for drizzling
  • Crushed red pepper flakes (for spicy kick)
  • Sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions (for earthy touch)
  • Dollop of fig jam (for sweet contrast)
  • Crispy pancetta or cooked chickpeas (for protein boost)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Butternut Squash: Peel, seed, and cube the butternut squash into bite-sized pieces. Toss with olive oil, salt, pepper, and your choice of fresh herbs. Spread in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes until tender and caramelized.
  2. Toast the Bread: Slice the baguette or artisan bread into 1/2 inch thick rounds. Lightly brush both sides with olive oil. Toast the bread in the oven or on a grill pan until golden brown and crisp, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Assemble the Crostini: Spread a generous layer of your chosen cheese (goat cheese, ricotta, or Parmesan) on each toasted bread slice. Top with roasted butternut squash cubes to ensure every bite has the sweet, caramelized flavor.
  4. Add Garnishes and Seasonings: Sprinkle toasted nuts or seeds on top, add fresh herbs like thyme or sage, and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Optionally, drizzle with honey, balsamic glaze, or sprinkle smoked paprika for extra flavor and visual appeal.

Notes

  • Cut squash into uniform pieces for even roasting and caramelization.
  • Use day-old or slightly stale bread as it toasts crisper and holds toppings better.
  • Add a splash of acid like lemon juice or balsamic vinegar to balance the natural sweetness.
  • Use a creamy cheese base to complement the squash’s sweetness with contrasting texture.
  • Add nuts and herbs just before serving to keep them crunchy and vibrant.

Nutrition

Keywords: Butternut Squash Crostini, appetizer, fall recipe, roasted squash, easy appetizer, seasonal snack, vegetarian, cheese crostini

Find it online: https://dailydishez.com/butternut-squash-crostini/