Tuesday, December 23, 2025

Christmas Wishes 2025

                            
Wishing Everyone who Celebrates a Very Merry Christmas and Prayers for Peace and Love for Everyone on This Earth!

How are you celebrating? 
What's Your Favorite Christmas Song? 


Friday, December 19, 2025

Discover Ojakhuri - A Comforting Georgian Mushroom, Red Pepper, and Potato dish



Have you ever tried Georgian cuisine? One of my favorite vegetarian Georgian dishes is Ojakhuri, a beloved Georgian comfort food made with crispy potatoes, sautéed mushrooms, and onions, often served sizzling straight from the pan.

While traditional ojakhuri is typically prepared with pork and potatoes, it is also very commonly made in a vegetarian or vegan version, using mushrooms as the main ingredient. This meatless variation is hearty, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying.

Living in South Florida, where there is a large Russian and Eastern European population, I’ve been exposed to many regional foods—including authentic Georgian food

A fresh salad with radishes and dressing is pictured.

Georgia is a small country located in the Greater Caucasus Mountains, bordering Russia, Armenia, and Turkey. Its cuisine reflects this unique crossroads of cultures, blending bold spices, comforting ingredients, and rich, home-style flavors.


Sunny Isles Beach Area is City Like

I live in a highly populated city like beach area. The other night, while out for a walk, we literally stumbled upon a Georgian restaurant and decided to give it a try. The food was outstanding. When I ordered ojakhuri, I was offered a choice of protein—pork, beef, chicken, or mushrooms. I chose the mushroom version, and it was absolutely delicious and gluten-free appropriate too. 



As soon as I got home, I wanted to recreate the dish. The only challenge was figuring out which spices they used and how it was made. All I knew was that it was deeply flavorful and warming, without being overpowering.

A pan filled with mushrooms cooking on top of a stove


roasted potatoes in a casserole

ojakhuri mushrooms and potatoes vegan
Sautéed mixture of mushrooms, onions, red pepper and seasonings

I googled around and found that like most ethnic recipes, there are as many recipes as there are cooks. I tried to keep this recipe as close to what I ate in the restaurant as possible.  

Potatoes are under the vegetables and I took the pic before I garnished with greens

Ingredients: 

3 large russet potatoes, peeled and sliced
water (or oil if your prefer) for sautéing
8 ounce container of white button or cremini mushrooms, quartered
1 red pepper, sliced
1 medium onion, sliced
Seasonings: salt, cracked pepper, paprika, ground oregano,  ground coriander, garlic powder or 2 cloves garlic, chopped.
Optional: Cooked chickpeas or tofu cubes for xtra protein
Garnish: 1/2 cup chopped parsley and or cilantro and additional seasoning to taste.

Directions:

Season the potatoes with salt, pepper, and paprika. Air-fry at 390 for 20 minutes, turning half way through. Or bake in 400 degree oven for 30 minutes. (spraying with olive oil if desired-I don't)

While potatoes are air-frying, sauté (in 1/4 cup of water or a few tablespoons of oil) mushrooms with oregano, garlic, and ground coriander  for 4 minutes, stirring. Add onion and red pepper and continue to sauté for another 4-5 minutes stirring. Set aside.

Place air-fried or roasted in the oven potatoes in a pyrex or casserole dish. Top with sautéed vegetables and (chickpeas if using) and serve while piping hot.

If you like potatoes (I do) you'll love this potato type stew. I actually added some chickpeas to make it a full meal. I could have added chunks of tofu instead of the chickpeas. Either would be good and provide some substantial protein. 

Video for Ojakhuri 

I'm no expert, so If you want to watch a video on how to make ojakhuri, this is one that I found and watched on Youtube this ojakhuri video . I have no affiliation with the video and do not endorse it in any way. 

My Notes: 

I've learned to easily sauté in small amounts of water or broth instead of oil. Really cuts down on calories and extra fat.



Sunday, December 14, 2025

Hanukah Celebration- Air Fryer Latke Recipe

          🎵Oh Hanukah oh Hanukah come light the menorah ! 🎵

                      a hanukkah menorah with a bowl of cookies and a box
Tonight is the first night of an 8 day celebration for the Jewish holiday Chanukah/Hanukah. Did you ever wonder why Hanukkah falls on different dates each year? 

Wednesday, December 10, 2025

Japanese Inspired Kabocha Miso Soup -Rich, Creamy, Comforting


kabacha squash

Tis the season for winter squashes! Meet "kabocha squash" also known as Japanese pumpkin. Have ever tried it? 

While most people are familiar with butternut squashacorn squashspaghetti squash, or orange pumpkin, one variety that is more unusual is kabocha squash—a sweet, flavorful squash that’s perfect winter cooking .

Saturday, December 6, 2025

Early Morning Ocean Walk - South Florida

ocean walk sign

The ocean walk is located directly across the street from my condo. The walk itself is beautiful, filled with small surprises every day. I frequently spot all kinds of birds, iguanas, insects, squirrels, and other little creatures that bring the path alive. 

Wednesday, December 3, 2025

Cabbage Carrot Broth: Simple, Soothing, Delicious


pot of vegetable broth

Sometimes you are just in the mood for something simple, light, and soothing. This nourishing easy cabbage carrot broth will hit the spot, especially if you add some cooked rice or (gf) noodles to the pot.

It comes together quickly and has a clean, broth-like feel rich in veggies. Nothing fancy—just an easy, wholesome soup that tastes good and feels good.

There’s something almost magical about the way cabbage  and carrots transform a simple pot of broth. I find that they bring a gentle sweetness and depth that makes any soup instantly comforting—

Ceramic bowl with vegetable soup

The Backstory: ( Got the backstory idea from Jeff the Chef)

The other night, I didn't have much time to make dinner, but I still wanted a warm bowl of light soup- something flavorful but not overly heavy.

As I stood in the kitchen, I remembered how my own mother used to make a simple traditional broth and add rice or noodles to it.

 I didn't have her exact recipe —just the memory of how much I loved it -  that was enough to inspire me to create my own. I improvised with what I had on hand, and the result was everything I was craving: light, soothing, and full of flavor. In fact, my husband couldn't get enough of it.

Carrots in a bowl

Simple broths like this one are perfect for chilly evenings or days when you want something warm, quick, and nourishing. 

Enjoy it as a light detox-style soup, or turn it into a complete meal by adding cooked rice or (rice) noodles at the end.

whole Cabbage

Why Is Cabbage Carrot Broth A Healthy Choice? 

Cabbage broth is a quiet nutritional powerhouse. Cabbage supplies vitamins C and K along with antioxidants that may support immunity and help reduce inflammation. The combination of cabbage and carrots adds gut-friendly fiber that’s gentle on digestion. The broth is naturally low-calorie yet satisfying, making it perfect for light or “reset” meals. Chickpeas contribute plant-based protein, minerals, and steady energy, and the turmeric—especially when combined with black pepper- may add an extra anti-inflammatory boost.

Instant Pot liner with vegetable noodle soup

This broth is vegan, gluten-free, and delicious. I set it to pressure cook in the Instant Pot for only 5 minutes. It took about 30 minutes from prep to finish. 

Can you make it on the stove top? - of course, but it will just take a little longer and may need additional liquid. I make it both ways.

Ingredients to make the soup

  • 4 cups chopped cabbage

  • 4 medium organic carrots, sliced

  • 1/2 cup chopped organic curly parsley

  • 1 small organic onion, chopped

  • 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed

  • 1/2 cup chopped scallion

  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric

  • 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

  • Cracked pepper

  • Water or vegetable broth to cover the vegetables plus 3 extra cups water

  • Optional: cooked rice or rice noodles

  • Optional: fresh lime juice for serving


Instant Pot Directions

  1. Add all ingredients (except rice/noodles and lime) to the Instant Pot.

  2. Set to Pressure Cook for 5 minutes.

  3. When done, carefully release steam according to manufacturer instructions.

  4. Once pressure is fully released, remove the lid and stir in cooked optional rice or rice noodles if desired.

  5. Taste and add more salt or pepper if needed.

  6. Ladle into bowls and finish with a squeeze of lime juice.

Makes about 6 bowls.

_______________________________________________________

My Notes: 

It's difficult to predict how much seasoning you will need. It will depend on how sweet your carrots are and how rich tasting a cabbage you have. You may need to add some bouillon flavoring if its too bland. 

Monday, December 1, 2025

In My Kitchen December 2025- Florida

Yikes. It's December already? Where is the time going? 
I'll be joining Sherry at Sherry's Picking and other bloggers for her IN MY KITCHEN  share... where anyone can join in.

Here's some of what's been happening in my kitchen this past month. 

decorative bowls

Saturday, November 29, 2025

Tofu Entree With Mushroom and Onion Gravy- Part of A Plant-based Thanksgiving Meal 2025



Wondering what I ate for a plant-based and gluten-free holiday entrée? This amazing tofu with mushroom gravy to start off a full plant-based holiday menu that even non-vegans loved.

A few people asked what I was planning to serve as my vegan Thanksgiving entrée this year. After thinking it over, I settled on tofu smothered in a rich flavorful onion-and-mushroom gravy. We ate it over warm rice, and the whole thing turned into one of those dishes that seems humble at first but somehow becomes the star of the plate—simple, satisfying, and surprisingly good. Paired with the butternut squash and fresh cranberry casserole, the dishes carried all the flavors of Thanksgiving.

I’ll admit, I took a shortcut with the mushroom gravy and grabbed a vegan, gluten-free mushroom gravy from Whole Foods. It turned out to be painfully bland, so I rescued it with freshly grated ginger, tamari, generous amounts of rice vinegar, and a little sugar. Honestly, I should’ve just made my own gravy with potato starch to begin with.

We spent the holiday with three other couples—none of them vegetarian—and yet not a single spoonful of the butternut squash casserole survived. Half the mushroom tofu disappeared too, even though there was plenty of turkey and other sides at the celebration at my friend's home.

People often ask what vegans actually eat for Thanksgiving, so I'm sharing a sample menu that I would serve if I were the host. 

Everything is vegan and gluten-free.

My entree is a mushroom and onion gravy with cubes of tofu over rice. 

slice mushrooms and onions

mushrooms sauteing in a skillet




tofu mushroom casserole
Tofu mushrooms and onion over rice in a casserole


Ingredients:

1 large onion, peeled and sliced into 1/2 moons
2 containers of fresh white or portobello mushrooms, washed and sliced
1 block of organic firm tofu, drained well and cubed

Sauce 
1/2 teaspoon of freshly grated ginger
2 tablespoons of potato starch (or cornstarch)
1/4 cup of water
1/3 cup of tamari sauce 
1/3 cup of rice vinegar
1 teaspoon of sugar (of your choice)
1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder
freshly grated black pepper 
Topping: sliced scallions
 

Directions: 

In a large rimmed skillet, sauté onions and mushrooms in 1/4 cup of water or vegetable broth (or oil if your prefer) on a low flame until soft. Add tofu and continue to sauté adding a little more water or broth if needed to prevent burning. While sautéing, assemble sauce in a bowl. Add all ingredient and mix well. Pour over the sautéed vegetables and tofu and continue to cook on low for 5 minutes. Taste and add additional seasoning if desired. 

Place cooked warm rice in a pyrex casserole and flatten - add the tofu mushroom mixture to the top, decorate with scallions and serve. 


Take a look at my full plant-based Thanksgiving Menu Suggestions



A Plant-Based Thanksgiving Menu 2025

Entree:
Tofu smothered with mushroom and onion gravy, served over rice

Side:
Butternut Squash (or sweet potato), Apple, and Fresh Cranberry Bake

Vegetable:
Green Bean Medley — bright, crisp, and green

Salad:
Tasty Mediterranean salad with nuts or my grated carrot–cranberry salad — both are interesting company-worthy options

Dessert:
Vegan Pumpkin Pie — blender recipe, crustless


That’s what I’m sharing for this holiday season — a hearty plant-based menu with ingredients that truly feel like Thanksgiving that everyone can enjoy!

How was your Thanksgiving? What did you make that you really enjoyed?

My Notes: 

1. Try quinoa in place of rice

2. Use butternut squash or sweet potato for the bake 

I was visiting Angie at her truly inspirational recipe blog at Angie's Recipes and saw this quote: I had to repeat.. thanks Angie.

 Americans have more food to eat than any other people and more diets to keep them from eating it. ~Anonymous 


Thursday, November 27, 2025

Butternut Squash Apple Cranberry Bake with Oatmeal Streusel Topping

butternut squash casserole in a pyrex dish

If you love butternut squash, this festive streusel-style holiday bake will quickly become one of your new easy seasonal favorites. The combination of tender butternut squash, tart cranberries, sweet apples and pumpkin pie spices, creates a bright, colorful fall side dish that looks beautiful on the table and tastes absolutely sweet tangy and delicious. 

Monday, November 24, 2025

Healthy Thanksgiving Side Dishes: Lighter Versions of Your Holiday Favorites

pumpkin pie , gluten-free, vegan

Why not start a new Thanksgiving tradition by making your favorite traditional holiday recipes a little healthier. 

We all would like to be thankful for better health- Right?  Healthier holiday eating is a good way to get started. As Ghandi said, "Be The Change You Want to See" 

Saturday, November 22, 2025

A Book Review: A Maximillian Manatee Adventure


cover of book. on manatees

A Sweet New Children’s Book, A Maximillian Manatee Adventure,  Brings Manatees to Life for Little Readers


This beautifully illustrated paperback book includes an uplifting story about Maximillian and Minerva--two adorable manatees who meet out in the ocean and help each other feel safe. In addition to the story, there are also pages to color, pages with interesting fun facts, and an overall calm happy vibe that makes it perfect for bedtime reading.

Have you ever seen a manatee? 
I live In South Florida, where we actually get to see manatees floating in the warm Intracoastal waters, and on rare occasions we even see them near beach in the ocean. I can tell you that it is quite a thrill to see one!!! How many kids (or adults) actually get to see them? Have you? This book will introduce kids to these amazing docile creatures worth knowing/learning about.

manatee book illustrations



I can still remember one of the books my mom read to me over and over when I was a young child. It was  about a puffin, an unusual bird, that I never forgot. Manatees are just as memorable, and Maximillian, the main character of the story book, gives young kids the same mix of wonder, warmth, and intriguing information that will stay with them for years to come.

I love the quality of this book. It is well written and the large joyful illustrations throughout are attractive to children and adults alike. Most of all, the book shares an the important environmental message.

poem about manatee and illustrations


Did you know ?  

Manatees grow to a massive 9 or 10 feet tall, can weigh thousands of pounds, while eating an entirely vegan diet. They are kind of cute and live peacefully even among sharks, alligators, and crocodiles. They have no known predators. Their greatest threats are from humans with boating accidents from the propellers, pollution, and damage to their habitats. They prefer warm waters. Florida manatees are considered an endangered species and boaters need to be especially careful not to hit them. 

Manatee Nature illustration and picture
This photo is not in the book. It is from free downloadable photos

This sign is in our neighborhood. I see the sign and other signs like it on my daily walks near the Intracoastal. 

My friends, Judi Berson-Levinson and Susan Beth Weizman, published this cute children’s book about manatees. After I reviewed it, I wanted to share it with my readers —especially those of you who might have kids or grandkids in the 2–6 age range. 

If interested, you can take a look at the book on Amazon.com: A Maximillian Manatee Adventure!:


Sharing this post on Saturday's Critters with Eileen 

Disclaimer: I was not asked to write a review and do not profit from its sales.  I really like the book after reading it and simply wanted to share it. All the opinions are my own, and I'll be giving it as gifts this holiday season to some special little ones. 

Saturday, November 15, 2025

Birds, Birds, Birds....But No Turkey


heron on a rock

Have you seen any turkey's lately? In Pennsylvania we have neighborhoods with lots of wild turkeys around. 

Even though I’m a complete amateur when it comes to bird-watching, (and I can barley identify one from the other) I’ve always loved spotting any feathered visitor that crosses my path. 

In Pennsylvania, I faithfully hang bird feeders in my backyard, hoping to attract interesting birds—though, if I’m honest, the squirrels seem to often clean us out before the birds get a chance. 

Monday, November 10, 2025

Easy Cauliflower Rice Recipe – Healthy Food Swap for Weight Watchers & Low-Carb Meals”

The holidays are coming and it's time to start thinking about how to balance out those extra high calorie treats with some lighter healthier "swaps." 

Have you tried cauliflower rice yet?

 It’s one of my go-to healthy low carb/low calorie food swaps instead of rice—and I rely on it for a light, flavorful, and satisfying meal that fits perfectly into my healthy lifestyle. I only like the frozen!!

Recently at my Weight Watchers Workshop, our leader talked about helpful strategies for weight loss and maintenance. Finding swaps for otherwise very fattening foods is a great strategy. You get to indulge without the guilt and weight gain.

Why Food healthier "Swaps" Matter

For me, food swaps have always been a vital part of healthy eating. I love finding creative ways to enjoy the foods I crave—without all the extra fat, sugar, or calories such as this fiesta cauliflower rice recipe below. It's very flavorful with the chopped tomato, fresh lime, and chopped xxxxxxxxxblack olives. 

cauliflower rice and tomatoes
Tomatoes, lime, and black olives recipe with cauliflower rice  
(link to recipe)

Here are a few of my favorites with links with recipe:

I like to use frozen fruit to make a frozen dessert instead of eating ice cream which I can otherwise never get enough of. It's a huge difference in calories, fat, and my health.

And of course, cauliflower rice tops my list as a substitute for rice.


cauliflower rice in a bowl with red peppers


Why Cauliflower Rice Is a Smart Choice

Cauliflower is a cruciferous vegetable rich in antioxidants and nutrients that support your body’s natural defenses. It’s also a fantastic low-carb, low-calorie substitute for rice, making it ideal for anyone on a Weight Watcherslow-carb, or gluten-free plan.

The secret to perfect cauliflower rice? Cooking it so it’s light, fluffy, and never mushy. I only use frozen and think it cooks tastier than the fresh raw version.

My Easy Cauliflower Rice Recipe

Here’s my simple method for delicious cauliflower rice every time:

  1. Open a bag of frozen cauliflower rice and pour it into a wide, high-rimmed skillet.(must be wide so the "rice' has room to spread out. )

  2. Add ¼ cup of water or vegetable broth.

  3. Heat on high for 1 minute.

  4. Reduce to medium heat and cook for 5 more minutes. Add another 1/4 cup of liquid if needed to prevent burning. Watch it carefully.

For extra flavor and nutrition, I often add:

  • ½ cup chopped red bell peppers

  • 1 cup cubed tofu

  • Season with turmeric, garlic powder, or fresh minced garlic, salt and cracked pepper or any seasoning of your choice.

If you add bell peppers, cook for about 7 minutes total and include an additional ¼ cup of water or broth halfway through the cooking if needed to prevent burning.

A Fast, One-Pan Meal You’ll Love

The result? A tasty, filling, and healthy side dish or entrée that’s light, fluffy, and bursting with flavor. The best part—it’s a one-pot meal that comes together in minutes!

So next time you’re craving something warm and satisfying, try swapping your regular rice for cauliflower rice. It’s one of the easiest ways to make your meals healthier without sacrificing taste.

cauliflower rice and red peppers and tofu

Do you have a plan to eat healthier for the holidays?  Any low calorie healthy suggestions for Thanksgiving?

My Notes: 

1. After cooking the cauliflower rice mixture, place in an oven proof bowl and bake in a preheated 375 degree oven for 5-7 minutes to crisp up the tofu and rice if desired.  

2. All recipes on this blog are gluten-free and since 2021 all recipes are vegan.






Wednesday, November 5, 2025

The Trick to Healthier Oven-Roasted Potato Wedges Recipe: Soak Away the Starch for a Lighter, Crispier Bite”


oven roasted potatoes

Did you know that soaking sliced potatoes in cold water for a minimum of a half hour or up to 12 hours in the refrigerator will not only reduce the starch load of the potato but also make for crispier oven-roasted potatoes?  That's why I always soak my potatoes in cold water before roasting. 

Wednesday, October 29, 2025

Vacation- Cozumel and Bahamas

Free Cancun Beach photo and picture

We are taking a last minute 6 day cruise from Miami to Cozumel and Bahamas. We got a great last minute deal at a price we could not refuse and are going with some good friends who live in our condo complex. We are leaving one vacation(living on the beach in Miami area) to go on another vacation.
Why not? We are all retired, available, and willing. These are the advantages of living in Miami !! We can take advantage of these last minute cruise deals. We live about 40 minutes car ride to the port!

Saturday, October 25, 2025

My Morning Walk -A Surprise At Sunrise

Morning Walk Surprise 

Look who I saw on my morning walk today on the Haulover Park walking path which runs parallel to the beach.



raccoon on the grass

I’ve been walking that same path every morning for almost ten years now. It’s part of my early morning routine when I'm in Florida—I get up early, go out on the balcony to check the weather, cross the street and walk for an hour.

Wednesday, October 22, 2025

Roasted Butternut Squash: An Easy Fall Side Dish


 Say hello to roasted butternut squash! It's an easy, no fuss, healthy fall side dish full with seasonal flavors (depending what you do or don't add to it.) Every piece is a bite of delicious natural sweetness.

 I never seem to get tired of roasted butternut squash. It’s one of those beautiful orange fleshed fall squashes that always tastes delicious — sweet, tender, and perfectly caramelized when it comes out of the oven. 

 Make Butternut Squash the Easy Way

The best part? A scant spray of olive oil and a hot oven are all it takes for this easy roasted butternut squash to shine. You really don’t need any seasoning to make it delicious, but a little pumpkin pie spice sprinkled on top takes it to the next level for me. Cut it up into chunks or wedges or roast it in halves face down and poke with a few fork holes in the skin. 


Versatile- Can Be Added To Many Dishes

anti-inflammatory salad

Once the butternut squash is roasted in the oven or even the air-fryer, you can incorporate the firm roasted squash into many dishes —  toss it into salads, blend it into a creamy soup, serve it as a healthy side dish, or honestly, just eat it straight off the baking pan (I do!). 


Anti-inflammatory and Valuable Nutrients

The great news is that butternut squash provides you with anti-inflammatory nutrients too and it's packed with valuable fiber, Beta carotene which the body converts to Vitamin A, Vitamin  C and lesser amounts of other nutrients.  If you’ve never roasted butternut squash before, you’ll be surprised by how simple it is and how sweet and flavorful it turns out.

I always like to keep a few butternut squash on hand during the fall and winter months. The nice thing is, they last a long time. A whole, uncut butternut squash will keep for one to three months in a cool, dry spot — no fridge needed. However, once you cut it open, just store the pieces in an airtight container in the refrigerator and use them within four or five days. You can even roast or steam extra squash and freeze it in portions for up to three months.




How to Tell if Butternut Squash Has Gone Bad

Before you cut into it, take a quick look at the outside of your butternut squash. If you notice soft spots, mold, or wrinkled skin, it’s a sign it’s past its prime. A good squash should feel firm and heavy for its size, with smooth, matte skin. Once it’s cut, check for slimy texture or an off smell — both mean it’s time to toss it. When in doubt, it’s always safer (and less smelly!) to let it go and grab a fresh one. 

My Experiences With Stored Butternut Squash: 

That being said, I have never had a butternut squash go bad even after keeping it for over two months on my pantry shelf. The worst that ever happened to me when storing a butternut squash was that  the seeds sprouted inside and the butternut squash became too dry to want to cook it.



How to Roast Butternut Squash (The Easy Way)

If you’ve never roasted butternut squash before, you’ll be amazed at how simple it is. You only need a few ingredients, and the oven does most of the work. Here’s how to make perfectly roasted butternut squash that’s golden, sweet, and delicious every time.

Questions?? 

To Peel or not to Peel before cooking? 

The well washed skin of a roasted butternut squash is actually edible once cooked - or it can easily be removed after roasting. 

Peeling it requires the right tool. I find that this inexpensive small peeler works extremely well and quickly. I used to struggle in the past, but this peeler zips the skin right off.

How to peel a butternut squash


Should I Cut Into Wedges or Simply Cut the Butternut Squash in half to Roast it? 

Either way will work- I prefer to cut into thick wedges for the best crispiness and caramelization. But either way will work. Just adjust the cooking time. The larger the cooking pieces, the more time it will take to roast. 

Ingredients:

  • 1 medium butternut squash

  • olive oil spray 

  • pumpkin pie spice 

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

  2. Peel (or don't peel) and cut your butternut squash into wedges ( or smaller pieces if you prefer or you can even buy them pre-cut.

  3. Lightly Spray the wedges or cubes.. Make sure each piece is lightly coated — this helps it caramelize beautifully.

  4. Spread it out in a single layer on the baking sheet. Crowding the pan can make the squash steam instead of roast.

  5. Roast for 25–35 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the edges are golden and the inside is soft and tender.

  6. When done sprinkle with cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice (my favorite)

Roasted butternut squash is one of those dishes that proves simple really is best. It’s naturally sweet, full of flavor, and makes your kitchen smell amazing while it bakes. Plus, it’s completely plant-based, gluten-free, and packed with nutrients — the perfect easy fall recipe.

Ways to Use Roasted Butternut Squash

Once you’ve made a batch of roasted butternut squash, you’ll find so many ways to enjoy it. It’s one of those ingredients that works with almost anything. Here are a few simple ideas:

  • 🥗 Add it to salads – Toss warm roasted squash into a fall salad with greens, cranberries, and toasted nuts.

  • 🍚 Mix it into grain bowls – Combine it with quinoa or brown rice, , and drizzle with a tahini or miso dressing.

  • 🍲 Blend it into soup – Roasted squash makes an amazing base for creamy soups.

  • 🌮 Tuck it into tacos or wraps – Add roasted cubes to a tortilla with black beans and avocado for a quick meal.

  • 🍝 Serve it as a side dish – It’s perfect next to roasted vegetables, plant-based protein, or even a holiday spread.

No matter how you serve it, roasted butternut squash adds warmth, color, and natural sweetness to any meal. It’s one of those easy recipes that fits right into cozy fall cooking — simple, healthy, and always delicious.



My Notes: 

1. Although I usually don't use oil, I do use as little as possible in this recipe. I've tried coating the vegetables in aquafaba ( the thick liquid from the chickpea can) and it works, but not as well. so- I go very very light on the oil. 



Some of my other winter squash recipes: 




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