Roasted Acorn Squash
Looking for the ultimate comfort food that's both healthy and delicious? Look no further than this unbelievably easy Roasted Acorn Squash recipe! It's the perfect addition to any autumn meal, but especially shines during your Thanksgiving feast. This recipe is family-friendly, simple enough for even beginner cooks, and adds a touch of warmth and sweetness to your dinner table. Plus, it's a fantastic way to incorporate seasonal vegetables into your diet. Get ready to impress your guests with this beautiful and flavorful side!
Equipment
- oven
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Knife
- spoon,
Ingredients
- 2 medium acorn squash halved and seeded
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup optional, for extra sweetness
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 0.5 teaspoon nutmeg ½ teaspoon
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is key for achieving a perfectly caramelized squash.
- Prepare the Squash: Carefully cut the acorn squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. A spoon or ice cream scoop works best for this.
- Season the Squash: Drizzle the cut sides of the squash with olive oil, maple syrup (if using), cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Make sure each squash half is evenly coated.
- Roast the Squash: Place the squash cut-side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast for 45-60 minutes, or until the squash is fork-tender and the edges are slightly caramelized.
- Check for Doneness: The squash is done when a fork easily pierces the flesh. If it's not quite tender enough, continue roasting for another 10-15 minutes.
- Serve and Enjoy: Let the squash cool slightly before serving. Enjoy as a delicious side dish!
Notes
Tip: For even more flavor, try adding a sprinkle of brown sugar during the last 15 minutes of roasting.
Substitutions: Maple Syrup with honey or brown sugar; spices like ginger or cloves; olive oil can be substituted with melted coconut oil or butter.
Pro Tips: Don't overcrowd the pan, use a sharp knife, add cayenne pepper for a kick, vegan option by using vegan-friendly maple syrup or agave, naturally gluten-free.