As the crisp air of autumn settles in, our cravings tend to lean towards warm, comforting, and nourishing dishes. Nothing quite captures the essence of fall like the natural sweetness and creamy texture of roasted butternut squash paired with the earthy goodness of sweet potatoes.
This vegan recipe combines these two star ingredients into a harmonious dish that’s both hearty and nutritious. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or simply looking to add more plant-based meals into your rotation, this recipe is designed to delight your taste buds and keep your body feeling great.
Beyond its delicious flavor, this butternut squash and sweet potato dish is incredibly versatile and easy to prepare. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even as a side at holiday gatherings.
Plus, it’s packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, making it a healthful choice that doesn’t sacrifice taste. Let’s dive into why this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your kitchen arsenal!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Rich in flavor and texture: The natural sweetness of butternut squash and sweet potatoes caramelizes beautifully when roasted, creating a delightfully tender interior with slightly crisp edges.
Simple and quick: With minimal prep and straightforward instructions, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual weekends.
Wholesome and nutritious: Loaded with fiber, vitamins A and C, and potassium, this dish supports your immune system and keeps you full longer.
100% vegan and allergen-friendly: Free from dairy, eggs, and gluten, it’s suitable for various dietary needs without compromising flavor.
Bonus: It’s a fantastic base for experimenting with spices and herbs to tailor it to your personal taste.
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 pounds), peeled, seeded, and cubed
- 2 large sweet potatoes (about 1.5 pounds), peeled and cubed
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup (optional, for added sweetness)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- 1/4 cup toasted pumpkin seeds (optional, for crunch)
Equipment
- Baking sheet or roasting pan
- Large mixing bowl
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Measuring spoons
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Oven mitts
- Optional: parchment paper for easier cleanup
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line your baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the vegetables: Peel and cube the butternut squash and sweet potatoes into roughly 1-inch pieces to ensure even cooking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, ground cinnamon, smoked paprika, garlic powder, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. Whisk together until well blended.
- Add the cubed butternut squash and sweet potatoes to the bowl. Toss everything thoroughly to coat the vegetables evenly with the spice and oil mixture.
- Spread the vegetables in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding to promote roasting rather than steaming.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even browning. The vegetables should be tender and caramelized on the edges.
- If you like a touch of sweetness, drizzle the maple syrup over the roasted vegetables immediately after removing them from the oven, then toss gently to coat.
- Transfer to a serving dish, garnish with fresh parsley and toasted pumpkin seeds for added texture and flavor.
- Serve warm and enjoy your nutritious, comforting vegan meal.
Tips & Variations
“For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a teaspoon of ground coriander or a pinch of cayenne pepper in step 3.”
Make it a stew: After roasting, add the vegetables to a pot with vegetable broth and coconut milk for a creamy butternut squash and sweet potato stew.
Add legumes: Stir in cooked chickpeas or lentils to increase protein content and make the dish more filling.
Swap spices: Experiment with curry powder or za’atar to give this dish a Middle Eastern or Indian twist.
Use fresh herbs: Rosemary or thyme pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the vegetables—add during roasting for aromatic results.
For a crunchy topping, sprinkle walnuts or pecans instead of pumpkin seeds.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 180 kcal |
Carbohydrates | 38 g |
Dietary Fiber | 6 g |
Protein | 3 g |
Fat | 5 g |
Vitamin A | 350% of Daily Value |
Vitamin C | 30% of Daily Value |
Potassium | 15% of Daily Value |
Serving Suggestions
This butternut squash and sweet potato vegan dish shines as a main course or a side. Here are some ideas to round out your meal:
- Serve alongside quinoa or brown rice for a balanced, hearty meal.
- Pair with a fresh green salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette to add brightness.
- Top with avocado slices or a dollop of vegan yogurt for creaminess.
- Complement it with roasted Brussels sprouts or steamed kale for extra greens.
- For an elegant dinner, serve with a crisp white wine or a sparkling water infused with citrus.
If you enjoy wholesome, plant-based dishes, you might also love exploring other delicious recipes such as Lemon Ricotta Pasta With Arugula Recipe, the flavorful Lion’S Mane Mushroom Crumble Recipes, or the comforting Harvest Hash Recipe: A Delicious and Easy Fall Comfort Food.
Conclusion
This butternut squash and sweet potato vegan recipe is a celebration of autumn’s best flavors, offering a dish that’s as nourishing as it is delicious. Its simplicity makes it accessible for cooks of all skill levels, while the ability to customize spices and add-ins invites creativity.
The combination of natural sweetness, warm spices, and a touch of crunch creates a satisfying experience that will leave you reaching for seconds. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, it’s a recipe you can turn to again and again when you want comfort food that’s both wholesome and vibrant.
Embrace the season, try this recipe, and enjoy the delightful balance of flavors and textures. Don’t forget to check out more inspiring recipes on the site to keep your culinary adventures exciting and healthful!
📖 Recipe Card: Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Vegan Recipe
Description: A hearty and comforting vegan dish combining roasted butternut squash and sweet potatoes with warm spices. Perfect as a main or side, packed with flavor and nutrients.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT40M
Total Time: PT55M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
- 2 large sweet potatoes (about 1.5 lbs), peeled and cubed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, toss butternut squash and sweet potatoes with olive oil, garlic, spices, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the vegetables evenly on a baking sheet.
- Roast for 35-40 minutes, stirring halfway, until tender and caramelized.
- Drizzle with maple syrup and toss gently.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 220 kcal | Protein: 3 g | Fat: 7 g | Carbs: 38 g
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