Butternut squash is an orange-fleshed winter squash, celebrated for its versatility and sweet, nutty flavor. Though commonly thought of as a vegetable, butternut squash is technically a fruit. It has many culinary uses and makes a great addition to many sweet and savory recipes. Butternut squash is not only tasty but also packs a punch of vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants.

Butternut squash & harissa hummus

Ingredients:

• ½ butternut squash (about 400g), peeled and cut into 2cm pieces
• 3 garlic cloves, unpeeled
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 tbsp tahini paste
• 1 tbsp harissa , plus a little extra for drizzling
• 400g can chickpeas, drained and rinsed

Method:

1. Heat oven to 200C/180C fan/gas 6. Put the butternut squash and garlic cloves in a roasting tin, season well and add 100ml water. Cover the tin with foil and bake for 45 mins, until the squash is really tender. Leave to cool.
2. Tip the squash into a food processor with any juices from the tin. Add the garlic cloves, squeezed out of their skins. Add the remaining ingredients, season with salt and blend to a paste.
3. Tip the squash into a food processor with any juices from the tin. Add the garlic cloves, squeezed out of their skins. Add the remaining ingredients, season with salt and blend to a paste.