Caramelized Butternut Squash Gems - cooking recipe

Ingredients

2 1/2 lbs butternut squash (estimated weight)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 tablespoon brown sugar, packed (can use Splenda brown sugar if desired) (optional)
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper

Preparation

Preheat the oven to 450\u00b0F.
Peel squash, cut in half lengthwise and remove the seeds. Cut the squash into 1\" to 1 1/2\" cubes (large and uniform is best), and place in a bowl. Drizzle olive oil over the chunks and toss them around with your hands to evenly distribute the oil.
Mix brown sugar, (if using) salt and pepper together and sprinkle it over the squash pieces. Toss around again to evenly distribute the seasoning. Spray a baking sheet with cooking spray and spread squash in a single layer.
Roast for 40-45 minutes, until the squash is tender and the glaze begins to caramelize, turning a few times to ensure even browning. Serve.