Are you looking for a tasty and healthy taco option? Look no further than Butternut Squash Tacos! With just 436 calories per serving (2 tacos), this meal packs a nutritious punch. But what exactly makes these tacos so healthy?

Butternut squash is a great source of fiber, potassium, and vitamin C. It's also low in fat and calories, making it an ideal ingredient for those watching their waistlines. By swapping out ground beef for roasted butternut squash, you'll have a delicious and nutritious meal that satisfies your cravings without all the guilt.

In this article, we'll explore how to make Butternut Squash Tacos at home, including nutrition information, health benefits, and serving suggestions. Let's get started!

The Nutritional Value of Butternut Squash Tacos

One serving of Butternut Squash Tacos equals two tacos, which contains approximately 436 calories. In addition to being lower in calories than traditional beef tacos, they’re also high in fiber, potassium, and Vitamin C. Butternut squash is a complex carbohydrate that is low glycemic, which means it won’t spike your blood sugar levels like refined carbs. It also contains antioxidants such as beta-carotene and vitamin E. By using whole grain tortillas and adding fresh toppings such as avocado and cilantro, you can make this dish even more nutritious and satisfying.

Ingredients Needed for Making Butternut Squash Tacos

To make Butternut Squash Tacos, you'll need the following ingredients:

• 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• 8 corn or whole grain tortillas
• 1/2 cup sliced red onion
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 avocado, diced
• Juice from 1 lime
• Salt and pepper to taste

Most of these ingredients can be found at your local grocery store or farmer's market. Always choose fresh, organic produce whenever possible to ensure maximum flavor and nutrition.

Steps for Making Butternut Squash Tacos

To make Butternut Squash Tacos, follow these simple steps:

1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F.
2. In a large bowl, combine butternut squash, olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and salt and pepper to taste. Toss until the squash is evenly coated.
3. Spread the squash out on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and lightly browned.
4. While the squash is roasting, warm the tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side.
5. Fill each tortilla with roasted butternut squash, red onion, cilantro, and diced avocado. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the top and serve immediately.

These tacos are great for easy weeknight dinners or meal prep for a busy week ahead.

The Taste of Butternut Squash Tacos

If you're a fan of tacos, you'll definitely enjoy the taste of Butternut Squash Tacos. The roasted squash adds a sweet and slightly nutty flavor to the dish, which is balanced out by the savory spices and fresh toppings. By choosing whole grain tortillas and fresh toppings such as avocado and cilantro, you'll also add a fresh and bright contrast to the dish. Plus, the lime juice adds a tangy kick that ties everything together. Overall, Butternut Squash Tacos are a delicious and satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion.

Health Benefits of Butternut Squash Tacos

In addition to being low in calories and high in fiber, Butternut Squash Tacos offer a variety of health benefits. For example:

• Butternut squash is high in potassium, which can help lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of stroke and heart disease.
• The antioxidants and other nutrients in butternut squash may help reduce inflammation and prevent certain types of cancer.
• The complex carbohydrates found in butternut squash can help stabilize blood sugar levels, making it an ideal ingredient for those with diabetes.
• Choosing whole grain tortillas and fresh toppings adds even more fiber and healthy fats to the dish, which can help keep you feeling full and satisfied for longer.

By incorporating Butternut Squash Tacos into your regular meal rotation, you'll be adding a nutritious and delicious option to your diet.

Possible Variations of Butternut Squash Tacos

One of the best things about Butternut Squash Tacos is how versatile they are. Here are a few possible variations to try:

• Swap out the red onion for diced bell peppers or sliced jalapenos for a little extra heat.
• Try using sweet potato or acorn squash instead of butternut squash for a different flavor profile.
• Add some protein by tossing in some black beans or grilled chicken.
• Top with crumbled cotija or feta cheese for a little extra flavor.

Don't be afraid to experiment with your favorite flavors and ingredients. The possibilities are endless!

Serving Suggestions for Butternut Squash Tacos

While Butternut Squash Tacos are delicious on their own, they also pair well with a variety of sides and drinks. Here are a few serving suggestions to try:

• Side Dishes: Mexican street corn, black bean and mango salad, or roasted sweet potato wedges.
• Drinks: Classic margarita, hibiscus tea, or fresh limeade.
• Desserts: Churros, homemade flan, or tres leches cake.

By pairing your Butternut Squash Tacos with complementary flavors and textures, you'll elevate the dish even further.

Side Dishes That Complement Butternut Squash Tacos

While Butternut Squash Tacos are delicious on their own, they also pair well with a variety of sides. Here are a few options to try:

• Mexican street corn: This flavorful side dish features grilled corn on the cob that's slathered with mayo, cotija cheese, and spices. It's the perfect complement to the sweet and savory flavors of the tacos.
• Black bean and mango salad: This fresh and colorful salad is made with black beans, diced mango, red onion, and cilantro. It's light and refreshing, which makes it a great contrast to the hearty tacos.
• Roasted sweet potato wedges: These crispy and flavorful wedges are the perfect side dish for a fall dinner. Made with roasted sweet potato, cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder, they add a little extra warmth and spice to the meal.

By choosing sides that complement the flavors and textures of the tacos, you'll create a cohesive and satisfying meal.

Occasions When Butternut Squash Tacos are Perfect

Butternut Squash Tacos are an ideal meal for a wide variety of occasions. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Weeknight dinner: When you're short on time but want a healthy and satisfying meal, Butternut Squash Tacos are a great option. They're easy to make and can be customized to suit your tastes.
• Game day party: Whether you're hosting a big football game or just having a few friends over, Butternut Squash Tacos are a crowd-pleaser. They're easy to eat and can be made ahead of time so you can spend more time enjoying the game.
• Office potluck: If you're looking for a healthy and tasty dish to share at your next potluck, Butternut Squash Tacos are a great choice. They're easy to transport and can be served at room temperature, so you don't have to worry about reheating them.

No matter the occasion, Butternut Squash Tacos are sure to impress.

Making Butternut Squash Tacos for a Crowd

If you're planning to make Butternut Squash Tacos for a large group, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Roast the squash in batches so it cooks evenly and quickly.
• Set up a taco bar so everyone can customize their own tacos with their favorite toppings.
• Make sure to have plenty of tortillas on hand so guests can have seconds (or thirds!)
• Consider making a double batch of the recipe to ensure there's enough to go around.

With a little planning and preparation, you can easily make Butternut Squash Tacos for a group of any size.