Butternut Squash with Tzatziki Sauce

Discover the perfect blend of roasted butternut squash and creamy tzatziki sauce. A nutritious and flavorful dish ideal for gatherings and family meals.

Butternut squash fritters with tzatziki sauce offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making them a perfect choice for family gatherings or friendly get-togethers. These cakes are incredibly easy to prepare, requiring only simple ingredients like roasted butternut squash, eggs, breadcrumbs, and a selection of spices.

A burst of savory and tangy flavors that will leave your guests wanting more.

The process involves mashing the roasted squash and mixing it with the other ingredients to form small patties, then pan-fried until golden brown and crispy. Served alongside a cool and creamy tzatziki sauce made from Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and fresh herbs, these fritters deliver a delightful crunch followed by a burst of savory and tangy flavors that will leave your guests wanting more.

Butternut squash is a nutrient-dense ingredient, rich in vitamins A and C, potassium, and dietary fiber.

Their presentation and approachable nature make them a fantastic conversation starter at any gathering, encouraging everyone to enjoy the food together.

In addition to their delicious taste, butternut squash fritters with tzatziki sauce provide numerous health benefits, making them an intelligent appetizer choice. Butternut squash is a nutrient-dense ingredient, rich in vitamins A and C, potassium, and dietary fiber.

The tzatziki sauce adds a burst of flavor

It contributes to overall health while supporting immune function and eye health. The tzatziki sauce adds a burst of flavor and enhances the dish's nutritional profile.

Made with Greek yogurt, it is packed with protein and probiotics,

Made with Greek yogurt, it is packed with protein and probiotics, which are beneficial for gut health. Unlike many typical appetizers that can be heavy and fried, these fritters offer a lighter, wholesome option that caters to various dietary needs.

Everyone enjoys a satisfying and flavorful experience.

Whether at a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends, butternut squash fritters with tzatziki sauce are nutritious and delicious, ensuring everyone enjoys a satisfying and flavorful experience.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Serving Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

For the Butternut Squash:

• 1 large butternut squash (about 3-4 pounds), peeled, seeded, and cut into cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika (optional for extra flavor)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin (optional for extra flavor)

For the Tzatziki Sauce:

• 1 cup Greek yogurt (plain, low-fat)
• 1 cucumber, grated and excess water squeezed out
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Detailed Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Butternut Squash

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This allows the oven to reach the right temperature while you prepare the squash.
2. Peeling and Cutting the Squash:
   • Use a sharp knife and a sturdy cutting board.
   • Cut off both ends of the butternut squash to create flat surfaces.
   • Stand the squash upright and carefully peel the skin using a vegetable peeler or paring knife.
   • Cut the squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds with a spoon.
3. Cube the Squash:
   • Place each half flat-side down and cut it into 1-inch thick slices.
   • Rotate the slices and cut into 1-inch cubes. Aim for uniform sizes for even cooking.
4. Toss with Olive Oil and Seasonings:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the butternut squash cubes with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, and if using, the paprika and cumin.
   • Toss well until the squash cubes are evenly coated with the oil and seasonings.
5. Arrange on a Baking Sheet:
   • Spread the seasoned butternut squash cubes in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Make sure they are not overcrowded to allow for even roasting.
6. Roast the Squash:
   • Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven.
   • Roast for about 25-30 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until the squash is tender and lightly caramelized (you can test this by piercing a cube with a fork).

Step 2: Make the Tzatziki Sauce

1. Prepare the Cucumber:
   • Wash the cucumber thoroughly.
   • Grate the cucumber using a box grater or a food processor.
   • Place the grated cucumber in a clean kitchen towel or paper towel, and squeeze out excess water. This step helps keep the tzatziki from becoming too watery.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
   • In a medium mixing bowl, combine:
     • 1 cup of Greek yogurt
     • The squeezed grated cucumber
     • 2 minced garlic cloves
     • 1 tablespoon of fresh dill (or 1 teaspoon of dried dill)
     • 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
     • Salt and pepper to taste
3. Combine and Taste:
   • Stir all the ingredients together until well blended.
   • Taste and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if desired.
   • Cover the bowl and refrigerate the tzatziki sauce until ready to serve (let it chill for at least 30 minutes for the flavors to meld).

Step 3: Serve

1. Plate the Dish:
   • Once the butternut squash is cooked and golden brown, remove it from the oven.
   • Transfer the roasted butternut squash to a large serving platter.
2. Top with Tzatziki Sauce:
   • Drizzle or spoon the tzatziki sauce over the warm roasted squash, or serve it on the side for dipping.
3. Garnish (optional):
   • You can garnish with additional fresh dill or a sprinkle of paprika if desired for extra color.
4. Enjoy:
   • Serve immediately while the butternut squash is warm. Enjoy this healthy and delicious dish with your family!

This recipe provides a flavorful and nutritious option for your gathering. Enjoy your meal!

Here’s a list of helpful tips and variations for making Butternut Squash with Tzatziki Sauce:

Helpful Tips

1. Choose a Ripe Squash: Look for a butternut squash that feels heavy for its size and has uniform, beige skin without soft spots.
2. Uniform Cutting: Cut the squash into evenly sized cubes to ensure even roasting and cooking.
3. Season Well: Don’t hesitate to experiment with spices such as cumin, coriander, or chili powder to enhance the flavor profile.
4. Roast at High Heat: Roasting at 400°F (200°C) brings out the natural sweetness and promotes caramelization, resulting in a richer flavor.
5. Make Ahead: Prepare the tzatziki sauce and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes for the best flavor.
6. Adjust Consistency: If the tzatziki sauce is too thick, add a splash of water or extra lemon juice to reach your desired consistency.
7. Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh dill, mint, or parsley can brighten the tzatziki and elevate the dish's overall freshness.

Variations

1. Add Cheese: Incorporate feta or goat cheese into the roasted butternut squash for added creaminess and flavor.
2. Spice It Up: Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the tzatziki sauce for a spicy kick.
3. Vegan Option: Substitute Greek yogurt with a dairy-free yogurt alternative for a vegan-friendly tzatziki.
4. Change the Base: For a different flavor and texture, swap butternut squash for sweet potatoes, carrots, or pumpkin.
5. Herb Variations: Use different herbs, such as cilantro or basil, in the tzatziki sauce to create unique flavor profiles.
6. Lemon Zest: Add lemon zest to the tzatziki for an extra burst of citrusy brightness.
7. Serve with Grains: Pair the butternut squash and tzatziki with quinoa, couscous, or rice for a complete meal.

Feel free to experiment with these tips and variations to create the perfect Butternut Squash with Tzatziki Sauce tailored to your taste!

Print