Caramelised Butternut Squash Tostada Recipe

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Caramelised Butternut Squash Tostada Recipe

Ingredients and Preparation

Essential Ingredients

  1. 1 large butternut squash (peeled and cubed)
  2. 2 tbsp olive oil
  3. 1 onion (diced)
  4. 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  5. 1 tsp ground cumin
  6. Optional: 1 tsp smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to taste

Optional Ingredients

  1. Queso fresco
  2. Diced avocado
  3. Sour cream
  4. Cilantro
  5. Additions:
    • Chipotle peppers in adobo (for heat)
    • Black beans or pinto beans (for protein)
    • Diced bell peppers (for sweetness)
    • Lime juice (for brightness)
    • Sliced jalapeños (for spice)
    • Sliced radishes (for crunch)
    • Microgreens or baby greens (for freshness)
    • Feta cheese (as an alternative to queso fresco)

Cooking Instructions

Roasting the Squash

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. In a large bowl, toss the butternut squash with olive oil, onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
  3. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer and roast for 30-40 minutes or until caramelized and tender, stirring halfway through.

Tips for Roasting

  1. Use high-quality olive oil for the best flavor.
  2. Adjust seasoning as needed to taste.

Toasting the Tostadas

  1. Lightly toast the tostada shells in the oven or on a skillet until crispy, about 5-7 minutes.

Assembly

  1. Layer black beans or pinto beans on the crispy tostada shells (optional).
  2. Top with roasted butternut squash mixture.
  3. Add diced avocado, sour cream, and crumble queso fresco or feta cheese on top.
  4. Finish with sliced jalapeños, radishes, and a sprinkle of cilantro or microgreens.
  5. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the assembled tostadas for added flavor.

Nutrition and Variations

Nutrition Information (per serving)

  • Calories: 320 (varies with toppings)
  • Protein: 10g
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 2.5g

Variations

  1. Add protein: Incorporate diced chicken or additional beans.
  2. Substitute: Use sweet potatoes instead of butternut squash for a different flavor.
  3. Seasonal veggies: Add other roasted vegetables like zucchini or kale.
  4. Vegan option: Omit dairy-based toppings and use avocado or nut-based creams instead.

Conclusion

Why This Recipe Works

Key Benefits

  1. Balances sweet and savory flavors.
  2. Showcases the deliciousness of roasted butternut squash.
  3. Customizable toppings allow for personal preferences and dietary needs

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