Roasted Squash and Chickpea Confit

Enjoy a warming plate of roasted butternut squash and crispy chickpeas finished with a drizzle of maple syrup for a sweet and savory delight.

⏱️ Cooking Time: 30 minutes | 🍽️ Servings: 1

Instructions

1. 1.
   Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the cubed butternut squash evenly on a baking sheet. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil and sprinkle with a pinch of salt. Toss them well to ensure each piece is coated. Roast in the oven for about 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender and starting to caramelize at the edges. This step enhances the natural sweetness of the squash, providing depth to the dish.
2. 2.
   While the squash is roasting, prepare the chickpeas. In a small bowl, combine the drained chickpeas with 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, and a pinch of salt. Stir until the chickpeas are evenly coated. Spread the chickpeas on a separate baking sheet or alongside the squash after the 20-minute mark, and roast for an additional 10 minutes. The goal is to achieve a slightly crispy exterior while maintaining a soft interior.
3. 3.
   In a small saucepan over medium heat, gently warm the maple syrup for a minute or two until it becomes fluid and fragrant. Do not boil as this might alter the flavor. Set aside; this will be drizzled on the finished dish, adding a sweet contrast to the savory elements.
4. 4.
   Once the squash and chickpeas are roasted, remove them from the oven and let cool slightly. They should both have a golden color with the squash being soft and the chickpeas delightfully crisp. Combine them together in a bowl, tossing gently to mix evenly without breaking the squash.
5. 5.
   To serve, drizzle the warm maple syrup over the combined ingredients, tossing one final time to ensure everything is well-coated. Adjust seasoning with a dash of salt if necessary, and enjoy this flavorful, warming confit. If you'd like a little extra crunch, consider adding toasted seeds or nuts. The dish can be reheated in the oven for about 5 minutes if it cools down before serving.