This Is the Paleo, Vegan Thanksgiving Dish We Can Get Behind

By Dominique Michelle Astorino

Updated on 11/22/2017 at 2:41 PM

Lexi's Clean Kitchen
Lexi's Clean Kitchen

You can officially get excited for comfort food season, without any fear of going off course with your diet. That's right — delectable, comforting, and traditional holiday foods are at your fingertips, and they happen to be healthy.

This caramelized butternut squash recipe is case in point: Paleo, vegan, full of fibrous carbohydrates, and SO yummy. Coconut sugar takes the place of the processed white stuff, while coconut oil edges out the dairy in butter. Get ready to grab many a forkful of this buttery, sweet deliciousness this Thanksgiving.

Caramelized Butternut Squash

Cook TimePrep time 10 minutes, cook time 50 minutes
Yield2 to 4

From Lexi's Clean Kitchen

INGREDIENTS

    • 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 pounds)
    • 2 tablespoons coconut oil, plus more for the pan
    • 1 tablespoon coconut sugar
    • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, plus more for garnish
    • 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
    • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
    • Coarse sea salt, for garnish

    INSTRUCTIONS

    1. Preheat the oven to 375°F and grease a rimmed baking sheet.

    2. Peel the squash and slice it in half lengthwise. Remove the seeds and cut into 1-inch cubes (you should have about 6 cups).

    3. In a large bowl, combine the melted oil, coconut sugar, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Pour the melted oil mixture over the squash and toss to coat.

    4. Place the squash on the greased baking sheet and bake for 40 to 50 minutes, tossing every 15 minutes or so to avoid burning, until caramelized and fork-tender.

    5. Garnish with additional cinnamon and coarse sea salt. Serve immediately.