Description
This simple Roasted Acorn Squash recipe highlights the natural sweetness of acorn squash, enhanced with maple syrup, aromatic fresh herbs, and a touch of olive oil. Roasting brings out a tender texture and caramelized edges, making it an ideal side dish for fall and winter meals.
Ingredients
Scale
Squash
- 3 acorn squash, halved vertically and seeded
Seasoning
- Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling
- Maple syrup, for drizzling
- Chopped fresh sage and/or rosemary
- Sea salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Prepare Squash: Place the acorn squash halves cut side up on the lined baking sheet. Drizzle each half generously with olive oil and maple syrup. Sprinkle sea salt and freshly ground black pepper evenly over the squash. Use your hands to gently rub and coat the surfaces to distribute the flavors thoroughly.
- Add Herbs: Sprinkle chopped fresh sage and/or rosemary into the center cavity of each squash half to infuse the roasting squash with aromatic herbal notes.
- Roast: Roast the squash in the preheated oven for 25 to 40 minutes. The exact roasting time depends on the size of the squash — cook until the flesh is tender when pierced with a fork and golden brown around the edges.
- Season and Serve: Remove the roasted squash from the oven and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve warm as a delicious and healthy side dish.
Notes
- Roasting time varies with squash size; smaller halves may need closer to 25 minutes, while larger ones could take up to 40 minutes.
- Feel free to swap herbs with thyme or parsley based on your preference.
- For a vegan option, ensure maple syrup is pure and not processed with animal products.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
- Pair roasted acorn squash with grains like quinoa or wild rice, or serve alongside roasted meats or tofu.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-40 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: roasted acorn squash, fall side dish, maple syrup squash, herb roasted squash, easy vegetable recipe
