Roasted Squash with Red Onion, Oregano and Mint

The famed chef Mario Batali is no stranger to meat, but he has embraced the "Meatless Mondays" movement in all of his 14 restaurants. "The fact is, most people in the U.S. eat way more meat than is good for them or the planet," says Batali. "Asking everyone to go vegetarian or vegan isn't a realistic or attainable goal. But we can focus on a more plant-based diet. That’s why I'm such a big believer in the Meatless Monday movement."

Ingredients:

Two 2 1/2-pound butternut squash, preferably organic
Sea salt and freshly ground pepper
1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
1/4 cup red wine vinegar
1 small red onion, very thinly sliced
1 tablespoon dried oregano
1 garlic clove, very thinly sliced
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper
1/4 cup mint leaves

(As always, use organic content as much as possible for the healthiest recipe.)

Directions:

1.Preheat the oven to 450°. Slice the squash crosswise 1 inch thick; scrape out any seeds. Lightly oil 2 baking sheets and arrange the squash slices on them. Season with salt and pepper and drizzle with 1/4 cup of the olive oil. Bake for about 25 minutes, or until just tender.

2.Combine the remaining 1/4 cup of olive oil with the vinegar, onion, oregano, garlic and crushed red pepper. Season with salt and pepper. Pour over the warm squash and let stand for 20 minutes.

3.Arrange the squash on plates, sprinkle with the mint leaves and serve.

Make Ahead: The recipe can be prepared through Step 2 and kept at room temperature for up to 4 hours.