5 3 Published Oct 22, 2024 Acorn squash is often served as a sweet dish, usually steamed in the oven with butter, cinnamon and some sort of sugar. I love it like this for acorn squash yogurt bowls, but my favorite way to enjoy acorn squash is by slicing it and roasting it up with savory seasonings. With roasting, the texture of the squash feels a bit more dense (less stringy), the squash is more flavorful and the skin gets nice and soft.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Perfectly Crispy & Tender – Roasting acorn squash brings out its natural sweetness while making the edges golden and crispy. The texture is incredible—soft and flavorful on the inside, with just the right amount of crunch on the outside! Healthy and Nourishing – Acorn squash is packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Easy and Versatile – With just a few ingredients, this roasted acorn squash is super simple to make. Plus, you can switch up the flavors by adding different herbs or spices. Perfect Side Dish – Whether you’re serving it at a holiday gathering or just as a weeknight side, this roasted acorn squash is sure to impress. It’s great on its own or tossed into salads, grain bowls, or even served alongside your favorite protein.
Roasted Acorn Squash Ingredients
acorn squash – look for a medium-sized acorn squash with no soft spots. It’s a great fall vegetable, naturally sweet and tender when roasted. olive or avocado oil – helps the squash get golden and crispy in the oven. Either oil works great! sea salt & pepper –basic seasonings to enhance the natural flavors of the squash. garlic granules (or garlic powder) – adds a savory, garlicky flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the squash. fresh thyme – brings a fresh, herby touch to the dish. You can also use other herbs like rosemary or sage for a different flavor. crushed red pepper (optional) –iIf you like a bit of heat, sprinkle some crushed red pepper over the roasted squash for a little kick!
How to Make Roasted Acorn Squash
How to Serve
As a Side – This roasted acorn squash makes a perfect side for just about any meal, especially during fall and winter. It pairs beautifully with roasted chicken, turkey, or even grilled fish. For a cozy dinner, serve it alongside healthy turkey chili. Tossed in a Salad – Add the roasted squash to a hearty salad with mixed greens, quinoa, and your favorite fall toppings like dried cranberries, walnuts, or goat cheese. A drizzle of balsamic vinaigrette pulls everything together. In a Grain Bowl – For a wholesome, filling meal, toss the squash into a grain bowl with farro, quinoa, or brown rice. Top with protein like chicken or tofu, and finish with a tangy dressing like my tahini dressing. As a Snack – These roasted squash slices are great as a healthy snack on their own. I love to sprinkle a little flaked sea salt and crushed red pepper for extra flavor and enjoy them warm or cold. In a Holiday Spread – Roasted acorn squash is perfect for holiday meals! Serve it as part of your Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner, along with dishes like healthy mashed potatoes or roasted Brussels sprouts.
Roasted Veggies You’ll Love:
Roasted Root Vegetables Roasted Sweet Potatoes Roasted Asparagus Roasted Cabbage Roasted Green Beans
More Squash Recipes to Try:
How to Cook Spaghetti Squash Acorn Squash Yogurt Bowls Kale Salad with Roasted Butternut Squash Ground Beef and Squash Skillet
Spicy roasted – Season squash with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon chili powder, 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes. After baking, add a squeeze of lime juice for an extra kick! Maple roasted – Season squash with 1 tablespoon of maple syrup, 1 tablespoon of olive oil and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Other sweet options – Coat squash with coconut oil and then sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of coconut sugar or brown sugar. Yum!
