Go Back
Roasted Acorn Squash Recipe

Roasted Acorn Squash Recipe - Freshly Ingredients

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.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American
Calories: 115
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

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

Method
 

  1. Let’s break down the cooking process step-by-step:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
  1. 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
  1. 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
  1. 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
  1. 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
  1. 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
  1. 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.

Notes

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.