Introduction
Maple Toasted Butternut Medallions With Cranberry Feta Bliss is a simple yet elegant seasonal recipe designed to highlight the warm, natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash paired with bright cranberries and creamy feta. The dish captures the feeling of autumn and winter comfort cooking without requiring complicated steps or lengthy preparation. Butternut squash, when sliced into medallions and roasted, develops caramelized edges and a tender, buttery interior that pairs beautifully with the tang of dried cranberries and the salty richness of feta cheese.
This recipe is inspired by classic harvest flavors reimagined into a modern, visually appealing side dish that works for both everyday dinners and holiday gatherings. The maple glaze elevates the natural sweetness of the squash while adding a smooth, glossy finish. Each component complements the others: the squash provides warmth and softness, the cranberries add contrast and brightness, and the feta offers a creamy, savory counterbalance. This combination makes the dish memorable, balanced, and ideal for sharing on social media due to its vibrant color and texture.
Whether you’re dressing up a festive table or adding variety to a weeknight meal, this dish brings seasonal flavor, beautiful presentation, and approachable cooking together in one recipe.
The Basics of the Recipe
This recipe centers around roasting butternut squash medallions until golden and tender. Slicing the squash into even rounds ensures uniform cooking and creates a refined appearance on the plate. A light coating of maple syrup and olive oil helps caramelize the squash as it roasts, enhancing both color and flavor. The dried cranberries soften slightly when sprinkled over the warm squash, while feta introduces a cooling, creamy contrast.
The recipe reflects the balance of sweet and savory flavors often found in modern seasonal cooking. Maple syrup gives depth without overpowering the squash, and the olive oil helps crisp the edges. The dish adapts well to additions such as fresh herbs, nuts, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Its simplicity and versatility make it an excellent side dish for fall and winter meals, from roasted poultry to hearty salads and holiday buffets.
Quick Recipe Snapshot
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Category: Side Dish
Cuisine: American Seasonal
Detailed Ingredients List
1 medium butternut squash, peeled and sliced into ¾-inch medallions
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons maple syrup
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon cinnamon (optional for warmth)
½ cup dried cranberries
½ cup crumbled feta cheese
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or thyme
Optional Add-Ins:
Pomegranate seeds for additional brightness
Chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch
A drizzle of balsamic reduction for contrast
Notes:
Maple syrup can be replaced with honey. Goat cheese can substitute feta for a creamier texture. Frozen butternut slices may be used if thawed and dried well.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly oil it.
- Arrange the butternut squash medallions in a single layer on the baking sheet.
- Drizzle olive oil and maple syrup over the medallions. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and optional cinnamon. Turn each piece to coat evenly.
- Roast for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the edges are caramelized and the centers are tender.
- Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle dried cranberries over the hot squash to allow them to soften slightly.
- Transfer the medallions to a serving platter. Top evenly with crumbled feta.
- Finish with chopped parsley or thyme and optional add-ins like nuts or pomegranate seeds. Serve warm.
Pro Tips, Substitutions & Variations
Ensure medallions are cut into even thickness so they roast uniformly. Do not overcrowd the baking sheet, as this prevents proper caramelization. For deeper flavor, brush the squash with additional maple syrup during the final minutes of roasting. Substitute feta with goat cheese for a tangier finish, or use balsamic glaze if you prefer extra acidity. Add nuts for crunch or replace cranberries with chopped dried apricots for a different sweet profile. Butternut squash can be swapped with acorn squash using the same method.
Make-Ahead, Storage & Reheating Tips
The squash medallions can be prepped several hours in advance and kept refrigerated until ready to roast. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. When reheating, warm in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 8–10 minutes to maintain texture. Add fresh feta after reheating to keep its creamy consistency. Avoid microwaving as it softens the squash too much.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Serve alongside roasted chicken, turkey, ham (use chicken ham per your rules), or beef. This dish pairs well with grain bowls, quinoa salads, or leafy greens dressed with citrus vinaigrette. For holiday meals, serve with stuffing alternatives, spiced rice, or roasted vegetables. A light drizzle of balsamic glaze enhances presentation and balances sweetness.
Nutritional Information
Calories: ~240 per serving
Protein: 4 g
Carbohydrates: 34 g
Sugars: 16 g
Fat: 10 g
Fiber: 4 g
Sodium: ~280 mg
Rich in vitamin A, vitamin C, and antioxidants from squash and cranberries.
FAQ Section
Can I use pre-cut butternut squash?
Yes. Ensure pieces are thick enough for medallions or adjust roasting time for smaller cubes.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes. Omit feta or replace it with a dairy-free cheese alternative.
Can I use honey instead of maple syrup?
Yes. Honey provides a deeper sweetness and caramelizes well.
Can I serve this cold?
Yes. It works well as a chilled or room-temperature side dish or part of a salad.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Freezing is possible, but the texture softens. Fresh or refrigerated leftovers are best.
Closing Section
Maple Toasted Butternut Medallions With Cranberry Feta Bliss is a vibrant, seasonal dish that captures the warmth of fall and winter in every bite. With simple ingredients and an appealing presentation, it offers a balance of sweet roasted squash, tangy cranberries, and savory feta that complements everything from weeknight dinners to holiday feasts. Its ease of preparation and flexibility make it ideal for home cooks and perfect for sharing with your recipe audience. If you enjoy this recipe, explore similar dishes like roasted sweet potatoes with cranberries and feta, honey-glazed carrots, or autumn harvest grain bowls.