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Wondering how to cook acorn squash? Preparing this fall favourite couldn't be any easier. That's because the oven takes care of most of the cooking so you can focus on making the rest of your meal - or relaxing with a book and a nice warm drink.
Its unique acorn shape and natural sweetness make this winter squash ideal for entertaining. Not to mention it is loaded with vitamin C, fibre and iron which will boost your immune system during flu season. So feel free to add it to your Thanksgiving or Christmas lineup.
What is acorn squash?
Also known as pepper squash or Des Moines squash, acorn squash is a winter squash with a tough green exterior and a distinctive orange-yellow flesh inside. It is indigenous to North and Central America and is very easy to grow.
How to cut and peel acorn squash
Start by cutting the squash in half, remove the stem and place the cut side down on a board. Cut the squash in half lengthwise again, through where the stem was.
Scrape out the seeds with a spoon and set aside to toast for a tasty snack. Leave the skin on if you’re planning to serve the squash in halves or peel off carefully with a knife before cubing the flesh for other recipes.
How to cook acorn squash: a step-by-step guide
Ready to get your hands dirty? Here's how to cook acorn squash in three easy steps:
- Wash and dry the acorn squash. Slice it in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
- Coat the cavity with olive oil or butter and season generously with salt and pepper or any other spices of your liking (nutmeg and cinnamon work well).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place squash facedown so it can steam. Roast at 425F for 20-25 minutes or until fork tender.
Alternatively, you could cut acorn squash into long slices, toss with oil, season and roast. This yields tender slices that would be great tossed into a salad.
Acorn squash recipes you'll love
Click here to access these five tempting recipes prepared with acorn squash - from savoury side dishes to tempting desserts:
Oven-roasted acorn squash
This easy recipe for oven roast squash makes a perfect side dish for cosy autumn dinners and provides a great base for soups and even warm salads.
Roasted acorn squash soup
Easy to make and perfect for the autumn, this hearty soup is the perfect way to use up leftover vegetables and is delicious with a couple of slices of crusty bread.
Quinoa stuffed acorn squash
This herby stuffed acorn squash recipe is a treat for a vegan or vegetarian meal and is given extra bite by a good helping of pine nuts.
Acorn squash quinoa risotto
What better dish is there for the autumn than risotto? This recipe offers a twist, with a quinoa base combined with squash, orange and salty parmesan cheese.
Bourbon acorn squash pie
Who needs pumpkin pie when there are acorn squash around? With the addition of maple syrup, fresh grated ginger and a couple of tablespoons of bourbon, this pie certainly packs a punch.
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