Roasted Squash with Nib Vinaigrette
- One 4-pound butternut squash, peeled, cut in half lengthwise, and seeded
- 1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons cacao nibs, coarsely chopped
- 1 shallot, finely minced
- 3 ounces thinly sliced pancetta
- Position the racks in the lower and upper third of the oven and preheat the oven to 450F.
- Line two baking sheets with Silpats or parchment paper.
- Trim the ends of the squash and cut off the neck portions from the bulbs.
- Place the 4 pieces of squash cut side down on a board, and cut into 1/4-inch slices.
- Toss with 2 tablespoons of the olive oil and sprinkle lightly with salt and pepper.
- Lay the slices on the prepared baking sheets and roast for about 20 minutes, until golden brown and soft.
- Rotate the baking sheets halfway through cooking.
- Meanwhile, prepare the vinaigrette and cook the pancetta.
- Combine the remaining 1/2 cup olive oil, the vinegar, nibs, and shallot in a small bowl.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet, cook the pancetta over medium heat until crisp, 10 to 15 minutes, turning to brown evenly.
- Drain on paper towels.
- When it is cool, chop or crumble into small pieces.
- Place the squash in a large bowl, add about 1/4 cup of the vinaigrette, and toss gently to coat.
- Arrange the slices on individual plates or a large platter.
- Drizzle with remaining vinaigrette and top with the pancetta.
- Serve warm.
butternut squash, extra virgin olive oil, salt, balsamic vinegar, cacao nibs, shallot, pancetta
Taken from www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/roasted-squash-with-nib-vinaigrette-237304 (may not work)