Embrace the cozy flavors of autumn and winter with our highly anticipated Hodgepodge Butternut Squash Bowl! This wholesome and incredibly delicious meal has become a staple in our household, enjoyed at least once a week during the cooler months. It masterfully combines tender, maple-roasted butternut squash with a blend of ancient grains, crisp greens, and a truly unforgettable homemade tarragon dressing. Whether you’re seeking a comforting weeknight dinner or a nutritious lunch, this bowl delivers on flavor, texture, and satiety, making it a perfect addition to any healthy meal plan.
For those in the Fridley, Minnesota area, you can experience the authentic taste of this bowl firsthand at our food truck, Hodgepodge, proudly located at Forgotten Star Brewing Co. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a seasonal celebration of fresh, vibrant ingredients crafted to nourish and delight.
From Summer Delights to Winter Warmers: The Hodgepodge Culinary Philosophy
Our beloved food truck, Hodgepodge, recently celebrated its first full season of serving up fresh, exciting dishes. This significant milestone brought with it our very first seasonal menu change, a transition we approached with immense enthusiasm! As the seasons shifted, so did our culinary inspiration. We bid farewell to the light and airy ingredients of summer, like sweet corn and juicy blueberries, and warmly welcomed the robust and comforting flavors of fall and winter. This exciting evolution saw us incorporating seasonal stars such as hearty squash, earthy potatoes, and delightfully candied nuts into our offerings, always with an eye towards fresh, local, and wholesome ingredients.
At Hodgepodge, we are deeply committed to always featuring a wholesome and satisfying bowl on our menu. This dedication stems from our desire to cater not only to our loyal Fit Foodie Finds followers who seek nutritious options but also to anyone craving a truly nutrient-dense and fulfilling meal from a food truck. Our summer bowl, a delectable Hodgepodge Protein Bowl, was a testament to seasonal eating, boasting savory sausage, fresh kale, and a refreshing blueberry summer salad – a true crowd-pleaser that exemplified our commitment to fresh, vibrant flavors.
Now, as the crisp air settles in and the leaves begin to turn, we invite you to experience the magic of our new Butternut Squash Bowl. You can swing by the truck for a convenient, freshly prepared meal that fits perfectly into your busy schedule, or, for the culinary adventurers among you, recreate this delightful recipe in the comfort of your own home. We’ve crafted this recipe to be approachable yet incredibly rewarding, bringing restaurant-quality flavors directly to your kitchen with simple steps and readily available ingredients. It’s the ideal dish to warm you from the inside out.
Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Butternut Squash Bowl
Beyond its incredible taste and stunning visual appeal, our Butternut Squash Bowl offers a multitude of reasons to make it a regular feature in your meal rotation. It’s a harmonious blend of flavors and textures, designed to satisfy both your palate and your body, embodying everything we believe a perfect meal should be:
- Nutrient-Packed Powerhouse: This bowl is loaded with essential vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber, primarily from the butternut squash, fresh greens, and whole grains. It’s a fantastic way to nourish your body with wholesome goodness.
- A Symphony of Flavors: Experience a dynamic flavor profile where the sweet maple, savory caramelized squash, tangy dressing, and crunchy candied nuts create a delightful dance on your taste buds. Each bite offers a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and fresh notes.
- Seasonal Perfection: Butternut squash is at its peak during the crisp days of fall and the chilly nights of winter. This recipe embraces seasonal eating, ensuring you enjoy ingredients at their freshest and most flavorful.
- Remarkably Versatile: One of the best qualities of this bowl is its adaptability. It’s easily customizable to fit various dietary preferences, whether you’re looking for a vegetarian base, adding extra protein, or swapping out ingredients based on what’s in season or what you have on hand.
- Effortless Meal-Prep: Many components of this bowl can be prepared in advance, making it an ideal candidate for healthy meal prepping. This means quick and easy assembly for nutritious lunches or dinners throughout a busy week, saving you time without compromising on quality or taste.
- Satisfying & Wholesome: With its hearty grains, rich vegetables, and satisfying crunch, this bowl is designed to keep you feeling full and content, making it a truly fulfilling meal that doesn’t leave you wanting.
Hodgepodge Butternut Squash Bowl: Star Ingredients Spotlight
For the complete list of ingredients with precise measurements and detailed step-by-step recipe instructions, please scroll down to the full recipe card below.
Maple Roasted Butternut Squash: The Sweet Heart of the Bowl
We believe in elevating simple ingredients, and our maple roasted butternut squash is a prime example. We take humble butternut squash, cube it uniformly, and then generously toss it with a touch of high-quality olive oil, a hearty sprinkle of sea salt, and a delightful drizzle of pure maple syrup. As the squash roasts in a hot oven, the natural sugars within the squash, combined with the maple syrup, caramelize to perfection. This process results in beautifully tender pieces of squash with slightly crisp, golden-brown edges and an intensified sweet-savory flavor that is utterly irresistible. Butternut squash itself is a nutritional powerhouse, boasting an abundance of Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and fiber, making it a healthy and delicious foundation for our bowl. Its inherent sweetness and creamy texture make it a winter vegetable champion.
Irresistible Candied Nuts: A Symphony of Sweet Crunch
No truly great bowl is complete without an element of contrasting texture and a burst of flavor, and our quick candied nuts are an absolute game-changer. Our signature nut mixture for this bowl features a delightful and healthy combination of raw pepitas (pumpkin seeds) and roughly chopped walnuts. These are lightly toasted on the stovetop with a delicate coating of maple syrup and a pinch of salt until they achieve a perfect golden hue and a subtle, enticing sweetness. As they cool, the maple syrup hardens, transforming them into irresistibly sweet, crunchy clusters. These candied nuts provide a fantastic textural contrast to the soft squash and tender grains, adding a burst of natural sweetness, healthy fats, and a satisfying chewiness to every mouthful. Walnuts are particularly noted for their beneficial omega-3 fatty acids, while pepitas offer a good source of magnesium and zinc.
Hearty Grain Blend: The Fulfilling Foundation
Every satisfying and well-rounded bowl requires a robust and wholesome grain base, and ours is no exception! We’ve carefully selected a flavorful and nutrient-dense mixture of farro and wild rice to create the perfect foundation. Farro, an ancient grain, contributes a wonderfully chewy texture and a slightly nutty flavor that is both unique and comforting. Wild rice, on the other hand, brings its distinct earthy notes and a pleasingly firm bite. Together, these grains create a substantial and texturally interesting foundation for the bowl, ensuring each forkful is as satisfying as it is delicious. This blend isn’t just about taste and texture; it also provides a significant amount of complex carbohydrates for sustained energy, along with a good source of dietary fiber to keep you feeling full and energized throughout your day.
Zesty Tarragon Dressing: The Unifying Elixir
To perfectly complement and balance the sweetness of the maple-infused elements in this bowl, we’ve crafted a vibrant, tangy, and incredibly fresh tarragon dressing. This “green” dressing is a concoction of fresh tarragon leaves, a touch more maple syrup for subtle sweetness, creamy Greek yogurt for body, sharp stone ground mustard, zesty red wine vinegar, bright fresh lemon juice, and a pungent clove of garlic. It’s all blended to a silky-smooth consistency. Its herbaceous, slightly licorice-like notes from the tarragon, combined with the zing of garlic and lemon, cut through the richness of the squash and nuts, adding a bright, zesty, and unifying finish to every bite. This dressing truly ties all the diverse layers of flavor together into one harmonious and delicious experience.
Customizing Your Bowl: Effortless Ingredient Swaps for Every Palate
One of the most delightful aspects of this Butternut Squash Bowl recipe is its incredible adaptability. Feel empowered to personalize it based on your preferences, dietary needs, or simply what ingredients you happen to have readily available in your kitchen. Here are some fantastic ideas for effortless ingredient swaps:
- Tarragon → Basil or Other Herbs: If the unique anise or subtle licorice-like flavor of tarragon isn’t quite to your liking, fresh basil makes an excellent and widely loved substitute in the dressing. It will lend a sweeter, more herbaceous and familiar note that is equally delightful. For a milder, fresher taste, consider blending in a mix of fresh parsley and chives. Dill could also offer an interesting alternative.
- Butternut Squash → Sweet Potato or Other Root Vegetables: Should butternut squash be out of season, difficult to find at your local grocer, or if you simply prefer another root vegetable, roasted sweet potatoes are a fantastic and equally delicious swap. They offer a similar natural sweetness and wonderfully tender texture once roasted, and they pair beautifully with all the other elements in this bowl. Other great alternatives to consider include delicata squash, acorn squash, or even roasted carrots for a slightly different flavor profile.
- Goat Cheese → Feta, Blue Cheese, or Vegan Alternative: While crumbled goat cheese adds a lovely tangy creaminess that truly elevates the bowl, other cheeses can offer exciting variations. Crumbled feta cheese can provide a saltier, sharper counterpoint, while a touch of blue cheese could introduce a pungent depth. For those following a dairy-free diet, nutritional yeast can impart a cheesy umami flavor, or you can find excellent plant-based crumbled cheese alternatives designed to mimic goat or feta cheese.
- Walnuts & Pepitas → Pecans, Almonds, or Cashews: Feel free to experiment with a variety of different nuts and seeds for your candied topping. Candied pecans would be incredibly delicious, offering a rich, buttery flavor, while almonds or cashews could introduce their own unique textures and subtle flavors to the sweet crunch. Ensure they are raw before candying.
- Arugula → Spinach, Kale, or Mixed Greens: If arugula’s distinct peppery bite is too strong for your preference, fresh baby spinach offers a milder alternative. Lightly massaged kale (to soften it) would add more robust greens and extra nutrients, or a gentle spring mix can be used as a delicate green base, offering a milder, more universal appeal.
- Farro & Wild Rice → Quinoa, Brown Rice, or Barley: While our grain blend is a favorite, feel free to substitute with other hearty cooked grains. Quinoa offers a complete protein, brown rice is a classic choice, and barley provides another chewy, satisfying option.
Boost Your Butternut Squash Bowl with Extra Protein
While this Butternut Squash Bowl is a wonderfully satisfying vegetarian meal on its own, it’s also incredibly easy to elevate its protein content for an even more fulfilling experience. Adding extra protein can make it an even more substantial main course or a perfect post-workout meal. Here are some of our top recommendations for a protein boost:
- Shredded Chicken: For a lean and versatile protein boost, effortlessly incorporate some tender shredded chicken. Its mild flavor blends seamlessly with the other ingredients, making it a fantastic addition that doesn’t overpower the existing flavors. It’s also great for using up leftover roast chicken.
- Air-Fryer Tofu: For a delicious and satisfying plant-based protein punch, crispy air-fried tofu cubes are a fantastic choice. Marinate them beforehand in a savory sauce for an extra layer of flavor that complements the bowl beautifully, adding a wonderful textural contrast.
- Delicious Carnitas: Craving something more robust and full of flavor? Savory carnitas (slow-cooked pork) add a rich, deep, and slightly smoky depth that pairs surprisingly well with the sweet and tangy notes of the butternut squash bowl. This makes for a truly hearty and indulgent version.
- Chickpeas or Lentils: For another excellent vegetarian or vegan protein source, consider adding roasted chickpeas for a delightful crispy texture and nutty flavor, or cooked lentils for an earthy, fiber-rich component that adds bulk and nutrients. Both are incredibly versatile and absorb flavors well.
- Hard-Boiled Eggs: Simple, quick, and remarkably nutritious, sliced or chopped hard-boiled eggs can be a great way to add an accessible protein source to individual servings, perfect for a quick lunch.
- Grilled Shrimp or Salmon: For a pescetarian option, grilled shrimp or flaked baked salmon can add a light yet flavorful protein boost, bringing healthy omega-3s and a delicate seafood flavor to the bowl.
Also Famous At Hodgepodge
Sweet Corn Smash Burger
Don’t worry, while our menu evolved to feature delightful cold-weather bowls like this one, our famous sweet corn smash burger remains a beloved staple at Hodgepodge. You can still visit us and grab this undeniably delicious and unique burger – a perfect savory counterpoint to our seasonal bowls and a fan-favorite for a reason. Experience the unique blend of sweet corn and juicy burger goodness today!
Storage and Meal Prep Tips for Ultimate Convenience
This Butternut Squash Bowl is not only delicious freshly made but also holds up beautifully for meal prep, making your healthy eating goals much easier to achieve! To ensure optimal freshness, maintain distinct textures, and preserve the vibrant flavors, we highly recommend storing any leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. For the best possible experience, always keep the tarragon dressing in a separate, sealed container and drizzle it over the bowl just before serving. This crucial step prevents the greens from getting soggy and maintains the crispness and integrity of all the individual components.
For those who love to get ahead with their healthy meals, this recipe is perfectly suited for advanced meal preparation. You can prepare several elements of the bowl ahead of time, significantly cutting down on assembly time during busy weekdays:
- Roast the Butternut Squash: Cook the squash completely according to the recipe instructions. Once cooled, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It reheats beautifully or can be enjoyed at room temperature.
- Prepare the Candied Nuts: Make your maple candied nuts and allow them to cool completely. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Keeping them separate ensures they retain their delightful crunch.
- Cook the Grains: Have your farro and wild rice ready to go. Cook them in advance and store separately in airtight containers in the fridge. Many grocery stores also offer excellent pre-cooked, frozen, or shelf-stable packaged grains, which are a fantastic time-saving hack.
- Make the Dressing: Blend the tarragon dressing (or your chosen alternative) and store it in a clean, sealed jar in the refrigerator. Shake well before each use.
- Chop Vegetables: Mince the white onion and chop any other vegetables you plan to add. Store these in separate containers.
When you’re ready to eat, simply combine your prepped ingredients, add fresh arugula, dress, and enjoy! This methodical approach ensures you have an incredibly quick, healthy, and satisfying lunch or dinner option at your fingertips, even on your busiest days. It’s a game-changer for maintaining a balanced and delicious diet.
Hodgepodge Butternut Squash Bowl
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Ingredients
Butternut Squash
- 6-8 cups cubed butternut squash, ~2-3 lbs. squash
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
Maple Candied Nuts
- 1 cup chopped walnuts, raw
- 1 cup pepitas, raw
- 3 tablespoons maple syrup
- ½ teaspoon coarse salt
Tarragon Dressing
- ½ cup fresh tarragon
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon stone ground mustard
- 3 teaspoons red wine vinegar
- 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
Other Bowl Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked farro*
- 2 cups cooked wild rice*
- 5 oz. arugula
- 4 oz. goat cheese or crumbled sharp white cheddar cheese
- ½ cup unsweetened dried cranberries
- ½ white onion, minced
Instructions
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Step 1: Roast the Butternut Squash. Preheat your oven to 425ºF (220ºC). Lightly grease a large baking sheet with olive oil or line with parchment paper. Spread the cubed butternut squash evenly over the baking sheet. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of maple syrup, then season with 1 teaspoon of sea salt. Toss everything together until the squash is well coated. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the squash is beautifully fork-tender and caramelized, making sure to toss it periodically (every 10-15 minutes) for even cooking.
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Step 2: Prepare the Maple Candied Nuts. While the squash roasts, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped walnuts and pepitas to the hot pan. Pour in 3 tablespoons of maple syrup and sprinkle with ½ teaspoon of coarse salt. Toss continuously to ensure the nuts are fully coated. Toast the nuts for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until they begin to brown and the maple syrup reduces and coats them evenly. Be careful not to burn them, as maple syrup can burn quickly.
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Step 3: Cool the Candied Nuts. Immediately remove the nuts from the heat and transfer them onto a sheet of parchment paper laid on a flat surface. Spread them out into a single layer. Allow them to cool completely. As they cool, the maple syrup will harden, transforming them into delicious, sweet nut clusters. These provide an essential crunch and sweetness to the bowl!
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Step 4: Blend the Tarragon Dressing. In a food processor or high-speed blender, combine all the ingredients for the tarragon dressing: fresh tarragon, 1 tablespoon maple syrup, Greek yogurt, stone ground mustard, red wine vinegar, fresh lemon juice, garlic clove, and ¼ teaspoon sea salt. Blend until the dressing is completely smooth and emulsified. Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary, adding more salt, maple syrup, or lemon juice to your preference.
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Step 5: Prepare the Grains. In a medium bowl, gently toss the cooked farro and cooked wild rice together until they are well combined. If using pre-packaged or frozen grains, ensure they are heated according to package directions. If cooking from scratch, follow package instructions to ensure perfect doneness.
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Step 6: Assemble the Bowls. To assemble, evenly distribute the prepared grain mixture into 4-6 individual serving bowls. Top each grain base with generous portions of the roasted butternut squash, fresh arugula, crumbled goat cheese (or your preferred cheese), unsweetened dried cranberries, and minced white onion. Finally, break apart the cooled maple candied nuts and scatter them generously over each bowl for that essential crunch.
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Step 7: Dress and Serve. Drizzle each assembled bowl generously with the fresh tarragon dressing just before serving. Enjoy this nutritious, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying Butternut Squash Bowl immediately, reveling in the harmonious blend of textures and tastes!
Tips & Notes for Success
- Alternative Dressing Option: Maple Balsamic. If tarragon isn’t your preferred herb, or if you’re looking for a different flavor profile, try a simple yet delicious Maple Balsamic dressing. To make, combine 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar, 3 tablespoons olive oil, 1 tablespoon stone ground mustard, 3 teaspoons apple cider vinegar, and ¼ teaspoon sea salt. Whisk vigorously until thoroughly emulsified. This dressing offers a sweet and tangy contrast that’s equally delicious.
- Time-Saving Tip: Utilizing Pre-Cooked Grains. To significantly cut down on your meal preparation time, we often use premade wild rice and pre-cooked farro. Many well-stocked grocery stores offer excellent frozen or shelf-stable packaged grains that are perfect for an easy dinner solution. However, if you prefer, feel free to cook your own grains from scratch at home; just be aware that this will add to the total preparation time.
- Optimizing for Meal Prepping. This recipe is fantastic for meal prep! For optimal freshness and to prevent sogginess, we highly recommend storing all individual components of this bowl in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. This method keeps everything fresh and vibrant. When you’re ready to eat, simply assemble the components and add the dressing just before serving.
- Season to Taste: Always taste your butternut squash after roasting and your dressing before serving. You can always add a little more maple syrup for extra sweetness, a pinch more salt to enhance the overall flavors, or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness, tailoring it perfectly to your palate.
- Roasting Squash Consistency: For even cooking and caramelization, ensure your butternut squash is cut into roughly similar-sized cubes. Overcrowding the baking sheet can lead to steaming instead of roasting, so use two baking sheets if necessary.
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Nutrition Information (per serving)
Carbohydrates: 71 g,
Protein: 17 g,
Fat: 28 g,
Fiber: 9 g,
Sugar: 23 g
Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be used as an approximation. Values may vary based on specific ingredients, brands, and preparation methods used.
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