Description of this recipe

This Smoky Sausage & Squash Traybake is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines the savory goodness of caramelized onion sausages with the sweetness of butternut squash and red onions, all coated in a smoky and slightly spicy harissa-infused marinade. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend gathering. The simplicity of preparation belies the complexity of flavors, making it a true crowd-pleaser.

Why you will love this recipe

You’ll absolutely adore this Smoky Sausage & Squash Traybake for its ease of preparation, minimal cleanup, and incredible taste. The combination of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors is addictive, and the vibrant colors make it a visually appealing dish. It’s a versatile recipe that can be easily adapted to your preferences and dietary needs. Plus, the fact that it’s all cooked on one tray means less time spent washing dishes and more time enjoying your delicious meal.

Introduction

In the realm of effortless yet deeply satisfying meals, the Smoky Sausage & Squash Traybake reigns supreme. This recipe is a celebration of autumnal flavors, bringing together the earthy sweetness of butternut squash, the pungent sweetness of red onion, and the savory richness of caramelized onion sausages. What truly elevates this dish is the smoky, slightly spicy marinade, a blend of fennel seeds, smoked paprika, cumin, honey, tomato purée, and harissa that transforms ordinary ingredients into something extraordinary.

The beauty of a traybake lies in its simplicity. It’s a hands-off cooking method that allows the oven to do most of the work, while you can relax or attend to other tasks. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a flavorful and nutritious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s also ideal for casual gatherings, as it can be easily doubled or tripled to feed a crowd.

The secret to a successful traybake is to ensure that all the ingredients are evenly coated in the marinade and that they are spread out in a single layer on the roasting tin. This allows for optimal browning and caramelization, resulting in a dish that is both visually appealing and bursting with flavor.

So, if you’re looking for a delicious, easy, and versatile meal that will impress your family and friends, look no further than this Smoky Sausage & Squash Traybake. It’s a guaranteed winner!

Ingredients:

• 1 tsp fennel seeds
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp tomato purée
• 1 tbsp harissa (adjust to taste depending on spice preference)
• 8 caramelised onion sausages (ensure good quality sausages for the best flavour)
• 2 red onions, cut into thick wedges
• 1 large butternut squash, peeled and cut into 2cm-thick slices (approximately 1-inch thick)
• small handful of parsley, finely chopped
• steamed new potatoes and greens, to serve (optional)

Preparation:

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 200C/180C fan/gas mark 6 (400°F/350°F convection). This initial preheating is crucial for ensuring the vegetables and sausages cook evenly and develop a beautiful caramelized crust. A hot oven is the key to a successful traybake.

Step 2: Prepare the flavorful marinade. In a large bowl, combine the fennel seeds, smoked paprika, ground cumin, olive oil, honey, tomato purée, and harissa. Whisk together vigorously until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This is where the magic happens; the blend of spices and sweet elements create the signature smoky, sweet, and slightly spicy flavor profile. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding a pinch of chili flakes for an extra kick!

Step 3: Toss the ingredients. Add the sausages, red onions, and butternut squash slices to the bowl with the marinade. Use your hands (or a large spoon) to gently toss everything together, ensuring that each piece is evenly coated in the marinade. This step is vital for distributing the flavors and ensuring that every bite is delicious. Don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty – it’s the best way to ensure a thorough coating. The key is to be gentle so the sausage casings don’t break.

Step 4: Arrange on a baking tray. Tip the contents of the bowl into a large roasting tin. Spread the ingredients out into a single, even layer. This is crucial for even cooking and browning. Overcrowding the pan will steam the vegetables instead of roasting them, resulting in a less flavorful and less visually appealing dish. Make sure the sausages aren’t overlapping.

Step 5: Roast to perfection. Place the roasting tin in the preheated oven and roast for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure that everything is evenly browned and cooked through. Keep an eye on the sausages; if they start to brown too quickly, you can loosely cover the tray with foil for the last 10-15 minutes of cooking. The squash should be tender and slightly caramelized, and the sausages should be cooked through and golden brown. You can test the doneness of the squash by piercing it with a fork; it should be easily pierced.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve. Remove the traybake from the oven and scatter over the finely chopped parsley. Serve immediately with steamed new potatoes and greens, if desired. The parsley adds a fresh, herbaceous note that balances the richness of the sausages and squash. The optional sides of new potatoes and greens provide a comforting and nutritious complement to the main dish.

COOKING Rating:

Easy

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve hot straight from the oven.
• Pairs well with steamed green beans, broccoli, or asparagus.
• Add a dollop of plain Greek yogurt or sour cream for a creamy touch.
• Serve with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious pan juices.
• A light salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the traybake.

Tips:

• To save time, you can peel and chop the butternut squash ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to use.
• If you prefer a spicier dish, add more harissa to the marinade.
• For a vegetarian option, substitute the sausages with vegetarian sausages or halloumi cheese.
• Don’t overcrowd the baking tray! If necessary, use two trays to ensure even cooking.
• To prevent the squash from sticking to the tray, line the tray with parchment paper.

Prep Time:

20 minutes

Cook Time:

30-40 minutes

Total Time:

50-60 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving, estimated):

(Based on 4 servings and assumes average ingredient values. Nutritional information is an estimate only.)

Calories: Approximately 450-550 kcal
Protein: 20-25g
Sodium: 700-900mg (depending on the salt content of the sausages and harissa)

Conclusion

The Smoky Sausage & Squash Traybake is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to create a warm, comforting, and flavorful meal that will delight your senses. It’s a testament to the fact that simple ingredients, when combined with a touch of creativity and a dash of spice, can transform into something truly special. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a group of friends, this traybake is sure to be a hit. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a delicious and effortless culinary experience.

Questions and Answers about this recipe:

Q1: Can I use a different type of squash for this recipe?

A: Absolutely! While butternut squash is a classic choice for its sweetness and creamy texture, you can easily substitute it with other varieties like acorn squash, kabocha squash, or even sweet potatoes. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the type of squash you use, so be sure to check for tenderness with a fork. Aim for a slightly tender texture when pierced.

Q2: I don’t have harissa. Can I use something else?

A: Yes, if you don’t have harissa on hand, you can substitute it with a combination of ingredients to achieve a similar flavor profile. A good alternative would be a mixture of chili paste (like gochujang or sambal oelek), smoked paprika, and a touch of tomato paste. Adjust the amount of chili paste to your desired level of spiciness. Another alternative would be chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped.

Q3: Can I prepare this traybake ahead of time?

A: You can definitely prepare the marinade and toss the sausages, squash, and onions in it ahead of time. Store the mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This allows the flavors to meld together even more. However, it’s best to roast the traybake just before serving to ensure the best texture and flavor. Do not add fresh parsley until right before serving.

Q4: Can I freeze leftovers of this traybake?

A: While you can freeze leftovers, the texture of the squash may change slightly upon thawing. It might become a bit softer. To minimize this, allow the traybake to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container and freezing. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven or microwave. Consume within 2-3 months for optimal quality.

Q5: What are some variations I can try with this recipe?

A: The possibilities are endless! Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Add other vegetables: Consider adding bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, or carrots to the traybake for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Use different sausages: Experiment with different types of sausages, such as Italian sausage, chorizo, or chicken sausage.
• Add cheese: Sprinkle some crumbled feta cheese or grated parmesan cheese over the traybake during the last few minutes of cooking.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the marinade for a spicier kick.
• Add herbs: Experiment with different herbs, such as rosemary, thyme, or sage, in addition to or in place of the parsley.