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, 1/2 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!