Get ready to fall in love with the sweet and savory flavors of roasted banana squash! This versatile ingredient is a game-changer for mealtime, offering a delicious combination of natural sweetness and earthy depth. In this article, we’ll dive into 19 mouthwatering recipes that showcase the best of roasted banana squash, from comforting soups and stews to decadent desserts and show-stopping main courses.
From classic pairings like brown butter and sage to bold fusions like coconut milk and chickpeas, these recipes will inspire you to get creative in the kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, our collection of roasted banana squash recipes has something for everyone. So go ahead, explore this flavorful world, and discover the joy of cooking with this incredible ingredient!
Roasted Banana Squash with Brown Butter and Sage
Roasted Banana Squash with Brown Butter and Sage: A Fall Favorite
This recipe showcases the natural sweetness of banana squash paired with the nutty flavor of brown butter and the earthy taste of sage. The result is a comforting and aromatic side dish perfect for the fall season.
Ingredients:
– 1 large banana squash (about 2 lbs), halved lengthwise
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 sprigs fresh sage, chopped
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Place the squash halves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Dot the top of each squash half with 2 tablespoons of butter, then sprinkle with brown sugar and chopped sage.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until the squash is tender and caramelized.
5. Remove from oven and season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Creamy Banana Squash Soup with Coconut Milk
Warm up on a chilly day with this creamy and comforting soup that combines the natural sweetness of bananas, the richness of squash, and the creaminess of coconut milk.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 3 ripe bananas
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the squash in half lengthwise, scoop out seeds, and place on a baking sheet.
3. Roast the squash for 45-50 minutes or until tender.
4. Scoop the cooked squash into a blender or food processor with the bananas, butter, onion, broth, heavy cream or half-and-half, and coconut milk.
5. Blend until smooth, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve warm, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Banana Squash and Chickpea Curry
This flavorful curry combines the sweetness of banana squash with the earthiness of chickpeas, all wrapped up in a rich and aromatic spice blend. Perfect for a cozy evening or as a nutritious lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium banana squash (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz)
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, curry powder, and turmeric; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add squash, chickpeas, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
5. Pour in coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let curry cook for 20-25 minutes or until squash is tender.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Garnish with cilantro and serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Maple-Glazed Banana Squash with Pecans
Discover the sweet combination of roasted banana squash, sticky maple glaze, and crunchy pecans in this autumnal side dish. Perfect for Thanksgiving or any fall gathering!
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized banana squash (about 2 lbs)
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the squash in half lengthwise and scoop out seeds. Place cut-side up on a baking sheet.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Brush the mixture evenly over the squash halves.
4. Sprinkle chopped pecans over the squash.
5. Drizzle melted butter over the squash and pecans.
6. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the squash is tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Banana Squash and Kale Stuffed Shells
This unique pasta dish combines the natural sweetness of banana squash with the earthiness of kale, all wrapped up in a creamy filling and nestled inside jumbo shells. A perfect blend of flavors and textures that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 medium banana squash, cooked and mashed
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine mashed banana squash, chopped kale, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and beaten egg. Mix well.
4. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the banana squash-kale mixture.
5. Place stuffed shells in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until heated through.
7. Remove foil and top with additional grated Parmesan cheese (optional).
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spiced Banana Squash Muffins with Walnuts
Start your day off right with these moist and flavorful muffins, packed with the natural sweetness of banana and squash. The perfect combination of spices adds a delightful warmth to each bite.
Ingredients:
– 2 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 small butternut squash (about 1 cup), cooked and pureed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup chopped walnuts
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, squash puree, sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Fold in chopped walnuts.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Banana Squash Risotto with Parmesan and Thyme
This seasonal risotto combines the sweetness of roasted banana squash with the savory flavors of Parmesan cheese and thyme. Perfect for a cozy fall dinner, this recipe yields a creamy and comforting dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium banana squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the squash in half lengthwise, scoop out seeds, and roast for 45 minutes or until tender.
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add rice and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes.
4. Add broth, one cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
5. Stir in butter, Parmesan cheese, and thyme leaves. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Grilled Banana Squash with Chimichurri Sauce
Add a sweet and tangy twist to your summer grilling routine with this unique recipe, featuring grilled banana squash smothered in a flavorful chimichurri sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium banana squashes
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Cut the banana squash in half lengthwise and scoop out seeds.
3. Brush both sides with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill the squash for 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until tender and slightly charred.
5. Meanwhile, combine parsley, garlic, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper to make chimichurri sauce.
6. Once the squash is cooked, brush with chimichurri sauce and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Banana Squash and Black Bean Tacos
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of banana squash with the earthy flavor of black beans, all wrapped up in a crispy taco shell. A unique twist on traditional tacos, this dish is perfect for adventurous eaters looking to mix things up.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium banana squash, cooked and diced
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 red onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the olive oil, diced onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the cooked banana squash, black beans, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble the tacos by spooning the squash and bean mixture onto a tortilla and topping with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Banana Squash Pie with Cinnamon Whipped Cream
Experience the perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors with this unique banana squash pie, topped with a dollop of cinnamon whipped cream. This comforting dessert is sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
For the pie:
– 2 medium-sized bananas
– 1 small butternut squash (about 1 pound)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
For the whipped cream:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Roast the squash in a preheated oven for about 45 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a blender, puree the roasted squash with bananas, heavy cream, sugar, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg until smooth.
4. Pour the mixture into the pie crust and top with melted butter.
5. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the filling is set.
6. Whip the heavy cream with granulated sugar and cinnamon until stiff peaks form.
7. Serve warm or at room temperature, topped with a dollop of cinnamon whipped cream.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Banana Squash and Sausage Stuffed Peppers
This recipe combines the sweetness of banana squash with the savory flavor of sausage, all wrapped up in a vibrant bell pepper. A perfect blend of comfort food and excitement!
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers, any color
– 1 medium banana squash, cooked and mashed
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with spoon as needed.
4. Add onion, garlic, and oregano; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in mashed banana squash and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Stuff each pepper with the sausage mixture and top with a lid.
7. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 30-40 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Honey-Roasted Banana Squash with Feta and Mint
This recipe brings together the natural sweetness of roasted banana squash, the tanginess of crumbled feta cheese, and the freshness of mint for a unique and flavorful side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized banana squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cut the banana squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
3. Place the squash cut-side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt, and drizzle with honey.
5. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the squash is tender.
6. Remove from oven and top with crumbled feta cheese and chopped fresh mint leaves.
7. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Banana Squash and Lentil Stew
This comforting stew combines the natural sweetness of banana squash with the nutty flavor of lentils, making for a deliciously healthy and satisfying meal. Perfect for a chilly evening or as a nutritious packed lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized banana squash, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the squash, lentils, broth, and water to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the squash is tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Banana Squash Bread with Chocolate Chips
This moist and flavorful bread combines the natural sweetness of bananas and butternut squash with the richness of dark chocolate chips. Perfect for a cozy afternoon treat or as a gift for friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup cooked and mashed butternut squash
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (60% or higher)
– Optional: chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, squash, flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract; mix until smooth.
4. Stir in chocolate chips and nuts (if using).
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Let cool on wire rack before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Banana Squash and Spinach Lasagna
A creative twist on traditional lasagna, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of roasted banana squash with the earthy flavor of spinach. Perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium banana squash (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 package lasagna noodles
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 bunch fresh spinach leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss squash with olive oil, onion, and garlic on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
3. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and spinach leaves.
5. Assemble the lasagna by layering cooked squash, lasagna noodles, and cheese mixture. Repeat for 3-4 layers.
6. Top with mozzarella cheese and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
Smoky Banana Squash and Bacon Hash
This sweet and savory hash combines the natural sweetness of roasted banana squash with the smokiness of bacon, all wrapped up in a crispy, golden-brown package.
Ingredients:
– 1 large banana squash (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, diced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss the squash cubes with 1/4 cup of olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Add the diced onion to the same skillet and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the cooked squash, garlic, and crumbled bacon to the skillet. Stir to combine.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 35-40 minutes
Banana Squash Smoothie with Almond Butter
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas, the comforting warmth of roasted squash, and the nutty flavor of almond butter to create a deliciously healthy smoothie.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas
– 1 small butternut squash (about 100g), roasted and peeled
– 2 tbsp almond butter
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– Pinch of salt
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the roasted squash, bananas, almond butter, and salt.
2. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. Add the unsweetened almond milk and blend until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or consistency as desired.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (including roasting time)
Banana Squash and Goat Cheese Flatbread
A sweet and savory flatbread recipe that combines the natural sweetness of roasted banana squash with the tanginess of goat cheese, perfect for a quick and easy dinner or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 small banana squash (about 2 lbs)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 cup goat cheese crumbles
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme
– 1 flatbread crust (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the banana squash in half lengthwise and roast for 30-40 minutes, or until tender.
3. Meanwhile, prepare the flatbread crust according to package instructions.
4. Spread goat cheese crumbles over the flatbread crust, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Roasted banana squash flesh on top of the goat cheese.
6. Sprinkle chopped thyme and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Banana Squash Pancakes with Maple Syrup
Start your day off right with these moist and flavorful pancakes, packed with the natural sweetness of bananas and squash. Perfect for a weekend brunch or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 small butternut squash (about 1 cup), cooked and mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 3 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– Butter or oil for greasing the pan
– Maple syrup, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
3. Add mashed bananas, squash, milk, egg, and whisk until smooth.
4. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the pan.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
7. Serve warm with a drizzle of maple syrup, if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get ready to fall in love with roasted banana squash! This versatile ingredient can be used in a wide variety of delicious recipes. From savory dishes like Banana Squash and Chickpea Curry, Grilled Banana Squash with Chimichurri Sauce, and Smoky Banana Squash and Bacon Hash, to sweet treats like Banana Squash Pie with Cinnamon Whipped Cream and Banana Squash Bread with Chocolate Chips. This article features 19 mouth-watering recipes that showcase the flavor and versatility of roasted banana squash.
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