Butternut Squash & Cherry Tomato Crumble

As the air grows crisp and the leaves turn golden, our kitchens beckon for the warmth and comfort of seasonal recipes. Enter the Savory Butternut Squash & Cherry Tomato Crumble – a delightful dish that captures the essence of autumn in every bite. This recipe marries the earthy sweetness of butternut squash with the bright, tangy burst of cherry tomatoes, creating a harmonious symphony of flavors and textures.

Picture yourself spooning into a casserole of tender squash, roasted to perfection, nestled amidst a sea of juicy, halved cherry tomatoes, all crowned with a golden, crispy crumble. The aroma alone is enough to transport you to a cozy fireside, wrapped in a blanket of fall hues.

In this blog post, we’ll embark on a culinary journey together, learning the art of preparing this delectable dish. From selecting the freshest ingredients to mastering the art of creating the perfect crumble, we’ll guide you step-by-step through the process. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe promises to be both approachable and rewarding.

Ingredients

For the Filling:

• 1 medium butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and diced
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Crumble Topping:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Optional Garnish:

• Additional fresh parsley for garnish

Preparing the Butternut Squash:

1. Peeling and Seeding:
   • Start by placing the butternut squash on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, carefully cut off both ends to create stable flat surfaces.
   • Stand the squash upright and carefully peel the skin using a vegetable peeler or a sharp knife, following the contour of the squash. Make sure to remove all the tough outer skin.
   • Once peeled, cut the squash in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and fibrous pulp from the center.
2. Dicing:
   • Lay the halves flat on the cutting board and cut them into evenly sized cubes. Aim for about 1-inch pieces for even cooking.
3. Tips:
   • Butternut squash can be a bit tough to handle. If you’re finding it difficult to cut, you can try microwaving it for a minute or two to slightly soften it, making it easier to cut through.
   • If you’re short on time, many stores offer pre-cut butternut squash that can save you some prep work.
4. Storing:
   • If you’re not using the squash immediately, it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a few days.

Preparing the Cherry TomatoesChatGPT

Preparing the Cherry Tomatoes:

1. Washing:
   • Begin by gently rinsing the cherry tomatoes under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
2. Halving:
   • Place the washed tomatoes on a cutting board. Hold them steady with one hand and, using a sharp knife, carefully slice them in half from top to bottom.
3. Tips:
   • To ensure even halving, try to choose cherry tomatoes that are similar in size. This will make it easier to achieve consistent cuts.
4. Inspecting for Ripeness:
   • Before cutting, take a moment to check each tomato. Look for vibrant colors and firm texture, as these are indicators of ripeness and flavor.
5. Optional Seasoning:
   • If desired, you can sprinkle a pinch of salt on the cut side of the tomatoes to enhance their natural flavors.
6. Storing:
   • If you’re not using the tomatoes immediately, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a few days.

Making the Crumble Topping:

1. Gathering Ingredients:
   • Collect all the ingredients needed for the crumble topping: all-purpose flour, rolled oats, grated Parmesan cheese, unsalted butter, chopped fresh parsley, and salt.
2. Combining Dry Ingredients:
   • In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, rolled oats, grated Parmesan cheese, and salt. Use a spoon or whisk to ensure an even distribution of ingredients.
3. Incorporating Butter:
   • Add the cold, cubed unsalted butter to the dry mixture. Using your fingers or a pastry cutter, work the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This should take a few minutes.
4. Adding Fresh Parsley:
   • Fold in the chopped fresh parsley into the crumble mixture. This will add a burst of herbaceous flavor to the topping.
5. Checking Consistency:
   • Pinch a small amount of the crumble mixture between your fingers. It should hold together when pressed, but still have a crumbly texture.
6. Tips:
   • If the mixture appears too dry, you can add a little more butter. If it’s too wet, sprinkle in a bit more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is achieved.
7. Storing:
   • If you’re not using the crumble topping immediately, it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a few days.

With the crumble topping prepared, you’re now ready to assemble and bake your savory butternut squash and cherry tomato crumble. The crispy, flavorful topping will provide the perfect contrast to the tender vegetables. Enjoy!

Assembling and Baking:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Begin by preheating your oven to the specified temperature, typically around 375°F (190°C).
2. Preparing the Baking Dish:
   • Select an appropriately sized baking dish. Grease the dish lightly with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
3. Layering the Ingredients:
   • Start by arranging the diced butternut squash evenly at the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Spread them out to create an even layer.
4. Adding the Halved Cherry Tomatoes:
   • Next, scatter the halved cherry tomatoes over the layer of butternut squash. Distribute them evenly to ensure a balanced mix of flavors.
5. Seasoning and Flavors:
   • Sprinkle minced garlic and dried thyme evenly over the vegetables. This will infuse the dish with aromatic flavors.
6. Applying the Crumble Topping:
   • Now, it’s time to add the crumble topping. Sprinkle it generously over the vegetables, covering them evenly.
7. Pressing Gently:
   • Using the back of a spoon or your hands, gently press down on the crumble topping to help it adhere to the vegetables.
8. Baking:
   • Place the assembled dish in the preheated oven. Allow it to bake for the specified time, typically around 30-40 minutes, or until the topping turns golden brown and the vegetables are tender.
9. Checking for Doneness:
   • To ensure the dish is fully cooked, use a fork to test the tenderness of the butternut squash. It should be easily pierced.
10. Resting Time:
    • Once done, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
11. Garnish (Optional):
    • If desired, sprinkle some additional fresh parsley over the top for a final touch of color and flavor.
12. Serving:
    • Serve the Savory Butternut Squash & Cherry Tomato Crumble hot, straight from the oven. It’s ready to be enjoyed!

Serving Suggestions:

1. Fresh Green Salad:
   • Balance the richness of the crumble with a crisp, fresh green salad. Opt for a mix of arugula, spinach, or mixed greens dressed with a light vinaigrette.
2. Herbed Couscous or Quinoa:
   • Serve alongside a fluffy bed of herbed couscous or quinoa for added texture and protein. The grains will complement the savory flavors of the crumble.
3. Crusty Bread or Dinner Rolls:
   • Offer slices of crusty bread or warm dinner rolls on the side to soak up any delicious juices or sauces that may have formed during baking.
4. Yogurt or Sour Cream:
   • Provide a dollop of plain yogurt or sour cream for a creamy contrast. The coolness of the dairy will balance the warmth of the dish.
5. Roasted Vegetables:
   • Roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus make great accompaniments. They add variety and nutrition to the meal.
6. Grilled Protein:
   • For a heartier meal, serve with a grilled protein such as chicken, tofu, or fish. The crumble’s flavors will complement a variety of main dishes.
7. Herb-Infused Olive Oil:
   • Offer a small dish of high-quality, herb-infused olive oil for dipping bread or drizzling over the crumble for an extra layer of flavor.
8. Citrus Zest:
   • Grate a bit of lemon or orange zest over the crumble just before serving to add a bright, citrusy note that enhances the overall taste.
9. Sprinkle of Parmesan Cheese:
   • Provide a small bowl of freshly grated Parmesan cheese for guests to sprinkle over their servings, adding a creamy and savory element.
10. Fresh Herbs:
    • Garnish with a handful of freshly chopped herbs like parsley, basil, or chives for a burst of color and a final touch of freshness.

Storage and Reheating:

Storing Leftovers:

1. Refrigeration:
   • Allow any leftover Butternut Squash & Cherry Tomato Crumble to cool to room temperature. Transfer it to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator.
2. Labeling:
   • If possible, label the container with the date to help you keep track of freshness.
3. Shelf Life:
   • Stored properly, the leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days.

Reheating:

1. Oven:
   • For best results, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the crumble in an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil. Reheat for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
2. Microwave:
   • If you’re short on time, you can use a microwave. Place a portion of the crumble on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a microwave-safe cover or microwave-safe plastic wrap. Reheat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warmed to your liking.
3. Stovetop:
   • To reheat on the stovetop, place the crumble in a non-stick skillet or saucepan over low to medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through.