Maple Pecan Roasted Acorn Squash

Description

Maple Pecan Roasted Acorn Squash

When autumn arrives, there’s no better way to embrace the season than with Maple Pecan Roasted Acorn Squash. This dish brings out the natural sweetness of acorn squash, combined with the rich flavors of maple syrup and crunchy pecans. It’s a cozy, flavorful side that perfectly captures the essence of fall.

2 acorn squashes, halved and seeded
4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
1/4 cup pure maple syrup
1/2 cup chopped pecans
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
Pinch of salt

Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place squash halves cut side up on a baking sheet.
3. Mix melted butter, maple syrup, cinnamon, and salt. Brush mixture over the squash.
4. Sprinkle pecans evenly.
5. Roast for 40-45 minutes until tender.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Kcal: 200 per serving

Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these detailed instructions for perfect Maple Pecan Roasted Acorn Squash every time.

1. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the Squash: Carefully halve the acorn squashes lengthwise and scoop out the seeds and stringy pulp using a sturdy spoon.
3. Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the melted unsalted butter, pure maple syrup, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until fully combined.
4. Season the Squash: Place the squash halves cut-side-up on the prepared baking sheet. Generously brush the entire cavity and cut edges with the maple butter glaze, reserving a small amount.
5. Add Toppings: Sprinkle the chopped pecans evenly into the cavity of each squash half, pressing them down gently. Drizzle with the remaining glaze.
6. Roast: Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven. Roast for 40-45 minutes, or until the squash is fork-tender and the pecans are golden and fragrant.
7. Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Optionally, add a final drizzle of maple syrup.

Serving Suggestions

This versatile dish pairs beautifully with a variety of mains. Serve it alongside a classic roast chicken or turkey for a holiday-worthy meal. For a vegetarian feast, pair it with a hearty lentil loaf or stuffed portobello mushrooms. It also makes an impressive standalone lunch when topped with a dollop of Greek yogurt or crumbled feta cheese.

How-to Summary

Halve and seed acorn squash. Whisk a glaze of melted butter, maple syrup, cinnamon, and salt. Brush glaze onto squash, top with pecans, and roast at 400°F for 40-45 minutes until tender.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of squash? Yes, butternut or delicata squash are excellent substitutes. Adjust roasting time as needed for the squash’s density.

How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled squash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes or in the microwave until warmed through.

Can I make this recipe vegan? Absolutely. Replace the butter with an equal amount of coconut oil or a high-quality vegan butter alternative.

My pecans are burning before the squash is done. What can I do? To prevent this, add the pecans halfway through the roasting time, or loosely tent the squash with aluminum foil for the final 15 minutes.

Is there a way to make this less sweet? Reduce the maple syrup to 2 tablespoons and add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard or a pinch of smoked paprika to the glaze for a savory balance.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not Roasting Cut-Side-Up: Placing the squash cut-side-down steams it instead of roasting it, preventing proper caramelization.
• Using Imitation Maple Syrup: Always use pure maple syrup for the best flavor; pancake syrup will make the dish overly sweet and artificial tasting.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Ensure space between squash halves for hot air to circulate, ensuring even cooking and browning.
• Underseasoning: Don’t skip the pinch of salt—it’s crucial for enhancing all the other flavors in the dish.

Conclusion

Maple Pecan Roasted Acorn Squash is more than just a side dish; it’s the essence of autumn on a plate. Simple to prepare yet deeply flavorful, it brings a touch of cozy elegance to any meal. By following this enhanced guide, you can avoid common pitfalls and master this seasonal favorite, creating a memorable dish that highlights the best of fall’s harvest.