As I simmer in the kitchen, these delightful autumn days bring a craving for cozy, comforting dishes. A roasted acorn squash, sweet and nutty in flavor, makes the perfect canvas. You can serve this dish as a side to complement countless meals. While it shines all on its own, I often pair it with:
- Grilled Chicken: The savory notes of the chicken harmonize beautifully with the sweet squash.
- Quinoa Salad: The nutty quinoa balances well with the squash’s earthiness.
- Leafy Green Salad: A fresh, zesty salad cuts through the richness of the roasted squash.
- Pork Chops: The sweetness of the squash enhances the savory, juicy goodness of well-cooked pork.
What Is Roasted Acorn Squash?
Roasted acorn squash is simply acorn squash, cut in half or into wedges, seasoned to taste, and baked until tender. The roasting process caramelizes the natural sugars in the squash, resulting in a sweet and savory dish that can be served as a side or even a main depending on your preferences.
What I love about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily modify it with different spices, cheeses, or toppings depending on what you have at home or what you fancy on that particular day.
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Why This Recipe Works?
1. Simplicity: This recipe is straightforward. You don’t need a culinary degree to whip it up. Just basic kitchen skills and a few ingredients.
2. Versatile Flavors: The combination of garlic powder, herbs, and olive oil creates a delightful flavor profile that complements the natural sweetness of the squash.
3. Healthy and Nutritious: Acorn squash is packed with vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants. Including it in your diet adds a wealth of health benefits.
4. Impressive Presentation: A roasted acorn squash looks stunning on the plate. Its vibrant color catches the eye and makes for an inviting dish at any gathering.
Ingredients You’ll Need To Make This Roasted Acorn Squash Recipe
For this recipe, gather the following:
- 2 small to medium acorn squashes
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano leaves
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme leaves
- ½ teaspoon dried sweet basil
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 cup finely shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
You’ll notice the recipe calls for simple, accessible ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. This is the beauty of home cooking.
How To Make These?
Let’s break down the cooking process step-by-step:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial in ensuring the squash roasts evenly and turns out perfectly tender.
Step 2: Prepare the Squash
Slice the acorn squashes in half from top to bottom. Be careful with this step; a sharp knife works best. Once halved, remove the seeds with a spoon.
Step 3: Season the Squash
In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, kosher salt, oregano, thyme, and basil. Drizzle the olive oil over the cut sides of the squashes. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly on top. Make sure to coat the inside well, as it’s the flavor-maker of this dish.
Step 4: Roast
Place the squash halves cut side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This helps to achieve a nice caramelization. Roast in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the flesh is soft and tender.
Step 5: Add Cheese
Once tender, flip the squash over and sprinkle the shredded Parmesan cheese generously on top. Return it to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese becomes golden and bubbly.
Step 6: Final Touches
After removing the squash from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of lemon zest. This will brighten up the dish and add a hint of freshness.
Tips
Here are some tips to make your roasting experience smoother:
- Choose a Firm Squash: Look for acorn squashes that feel heavy for their size. The skin should be firm and free from blemishes.
- Use Fresh Herbs: If possible, use fresh herbs for an enhanced flavor profile. They can transform a dish with their vibrancy.
- Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add a pinch of cayenne for heat or cinnamon for warmth—adjusting flavors is part of the fun.
- Check for Doneness: Before adding the cheese, ensure the squash is tender by poking it with a fork. If it’s still hard, give it a little more roasting time.
- Serving Suggestion: Pair your roasted acorn squash with a drizzle of balsamic glaze or honey for an extra layer of flavor.
Nutrition Information
Eating well doesn’t mean sacrificing taste. Here’s the nutritional breakdown for a serving of roasted acorn squash (without cheese):
- Calories: 115
- Total Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 9g
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 3g
How to Store The Leftovers?
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers (though I doubt it!), storage is simple:
- Refrigerate: Place the cooled squash in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
- Freeze: For longer storage, you can freeze leftover squash. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer bag. This way, it will last for 2-3 months.
What Are Some Recommended Side Dishes for Roasted Acorn Squash Recipe?
Enhancing your meal is easy. Here are some side dish suggestions that pair well with roasted acorn squash:
- Quinoa Pilaf: A light and fluffy quinoa pilaf infused with herbs can create a lovely contrast against the rich squash.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Who doesn’t love creamy mashed potatoes? The garlic complements the roasted flavors beautifully.
- Sautéed Greens: Think spinach or kale lightly sautéed with garlic. This adds a fresh, vibrant flavor next to the sweetness of the squash.
- Cranberry Sauce: A tangy cranberry sauce balances the sweetness of the acorn squash. Especially perfect for a holiday dinner!
If the Items Are Not Available in Your Pantry, What Are Some Substitute Options for the Ingredients?
Sometimes flexibility is key in cooking. If you’re missing some ingredients, consider these substitutes:
- Acorn Squash: Butternut squash or pumpkin can serve well in place of acorn squash due to their similar sweet, nutty flavor.
- Olive Oil: Avocado oil or melted coconut oil can act as an excellent alternative, bringing different flavor characteristics.
- Parmesan Cheese: Try Pecorino Romano or Nutritional yeast (for a vegan option) if you’re out of Parmesan.
- Herbs: If you don’t have dried herbs, fresh ones work perfectly. Just use three times the amount as dried herbs lose flavor more quickly.
Conclusion
Roasted acorn squash is a fantastic dish that blends simplicity, flavor, and nutrition. This dish stands out whether shared with family or served at gatherings. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it invites creativity in adjusting flavors and textures. I encourage you to try this recipe, experiment with your favorite pairings, and enjoy the comforting sweetness of roasted acorn squash as the perfect accompaniment to your meals. Happy cooking!
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Roasted Acorn Squash Recipe – Freshly Ingredients
Description
Roasted acorn squash is simply acorn squash, cut in half or into wedges, seasoned to taste, and baked until tender. The roasting process caramelizes the natural sugars in the squash, resulting in a sweet and savory dish that can be served as a side or even a main depending on your preferences.
Ingredients
For this recipe, gather the following:
Instructions
-
Let’s break down the cooking process step-by-step:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
-
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial in ensuring the squash roasts evenly and turns out perfectly tender.
Step 2: Prepare the Squash
-
Slice the acorn squashes in half from top to bottom. Be careful with this step; a sharp knife works best. Once halved, remove the seeds with a spoon.
Step 3: Season the Squash
-
In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, kosher salt, oregano, thyme, and basil. Drizzle the olive oil over the cut sides of the squashes. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly on top. Make sure to coat the inside well, as it’s the flavor-maker of this dish.
Step 4: Roast
-
Place the squash halves cut side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This helps to achieve a nice caramelization. Roast in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the flesh is soft and tender.
Step 5: Add Cheese
-
Once tender, flip the squash over and sprinkle the shredded Parmesan cheese generously on top. Return it to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese becomes golden and bubbly.
Step 6: Final Touches
-
After removing the squash from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of lemon zest. This will brighten up the dish and add a hint of freshness.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 115kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 4g7%
- Saturated Fat 1g5%
- Total Carbohydrate 27g9%
- Dietary Fiber 9g36%
- Sugars 3g
- Protein 3g6%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Here are some tips to make your roasting experience smoother:
Serving Suggestion: Pair your roasted acorn squash with a drizzle of balsamic glaze or honey for an extra layer of flavor.
Choose a Firm Squash: Look for acorn squashes that feel heavy for their size. The skin should be firm and free from blemishes.
Use Fresh Herbs: If possible, use fresh herbs for an enhanced flavor profile. They can transform a dish with their vibrancy.
Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add a pinch of cayenne for heat or cinnamon for warmth—adjusting flavors is part of the fun.
Check for Doneness: Before adding the cheese, ensure the squash is tender by poking it with a fork. If it’s still hard, give it a little more roasting time.
