Goaty Squashed Squash
Creamy baked squash casserole with beetroot, spinach, goat cheese, and a crunchy peanut topping—perfect for a flavorful fall recipe!
Servings
Prep Time
Cook Time
Ingredients
Total Time
Ingredients
For the Dish
- 300 g squash
- 200 g beetroot
- 1 onion (chopped)
- 3 garlic cloves
- 2 red chilies (chopped)
- 50 g baby spinach
- 150 ml double cream
- 100 g goat cheese (crumbled)
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp paprika
- 2 tbsp butter
- 50 g Pecorino cheese (grated)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Topping
- 50 g peanuts (roughly chopped)
- 3 tbsp sesame seeds
- 2 garlic cloves
- 4 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp honey
- 1 tsp double cream
- Salt to taste
Equipment
- Oven-safe dish
- Skillet
- Saucepan
- Foil
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Spatula
Instructions
Let me tell you about a recipe so delicious that it will make even those who aren't fans of squash become believers—trust me, I know what I'm talking about. I used to avoid squash, but now I love it.
This baked squash casserole brings together bold flavors and crunchy textures, making each serving a unique experience. Let's see what it's all about
Preparing the Vegetables
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Grease an oven-safe dish with a little oil or butter.
- Cut the squash and beetroot into thick slices, about 2-3 cm, and place them in the dish.
Making the Creamy Spinach Sauce
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, melt the butter.
- Add turmeric and paprika, stirring to release their flavors.
- Sauté the chopped onion and garlic until translucent, then add the chopped chili.
- Add the spinach and cook until it reduces in size, stirring gently.
- Pour in the double cream and stir everything together.
- Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes, then remove from heat and add the Pecorino cheese. Mix welll
- Add goat cheese all over your prepared squash and beetroot
- Then pour this sauce over the squash and beetroot in the baking dish.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 40-50 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes to allow the top to brown slightly.
- However, remember that every oven is different, so keep an eye on the baking time.
Crunchy Topping
- In a small saucepan, heat the olive oil.
- Roughly chop the peanuts and fry them with the sesame seeds in the oil for a few minutes.
- Remove the saucepan from heat, grate the garlic into it, add the honey, and stir.
- Add a teaspoon of double cream and salt to taste, then mix everything well.
- Pour the topping over the baked vegetables for a delicious, crunchy texture and serve immediately.
Why This Recipe Works
And this is how you make this delicious recipe. Now let's see why this dish makes so much sense because I know it may feel like a lot.
As may already have guessed, the combination of sweet squash and earthy beetroot with creamy, spiced sauce creates a delightful fall-inspired dish. On the other hand, Pecorino cheese adds a savory touch to mild flavor of the squash. And last but not least, beetroot, known for its nutritional benefits, adds a splash of color and supports heart health with its natural nitrates.
FAQ
Check out the most frequently asked questions below.
Q: How to peel butternut squash?
A: Use a sturdy peeler to remove the skin, scoop out the seeds, and cut it into pieces.
Q: Can beetroot lower blood pressure?
A: Yes, beetroot may help reduce blood pressure due to its nitrate content.
Q: Can beetroot cause kidney stones?
A: Excessive beetroot can contribute to kidney stones because of its oxalate content.
Q: Can beetroot lower cholesterol?
A: Yes, compounds in beetroot are thought to aid in lowering cholesterol.
Q: Can beetroot cause constipation?
A: Beetroot is high in fiber, which aids digestion, though consuming too much may cause digestive discomfort.
Q: What does squash taste like?
A: Squash has a mild, slightly sweet flavor and a creamy texture when roasted, perfect for fall squash recipes.
Conclusion
I hope you give this dish a try and tag us when you do! The full recipe video is available on YouTube, so check it out. Don't forget to like and subscribe for more delicious recipes.
Nutrition Facts / Serving
- Calories 647
- Total Fat 58 g
- Cholesterol 35 mg
- Sodium 413 mg
- Potassium 659 mg
- Total Carbohydrate 16 g
- Sugars 9 g
- Protein 17 g