How To Cook Acorn Squash

Learn how to cook acorn squash for the most deliciously tender and easy winter side dish! With microwave instructions for when you’re pressed on time but still want a filling, healthy side.

Why This Recipe Is So Good!

• It only takes 5 minutes to prep the squash.
• It’s so easy to cook acorn squash, and you can roast it in the oven or cook it in the microwave.
• Add maple syrup and butter to the squash for an amazingly tasty side dish.
• The recipe can easily be customized to any dietary consideration, like vegan or paleo.
• It’s a healthy and nutritious side dish.

How To Cook It

In the oven:

1. Use a sharp knife to cut the squash in half. If it stays attached at the stem; use your hands to separate it into two pieces. Use a spoon to scoop out the seeds; discard or reserve to roast later.
2. Cut off a very small sliver on the round bottom of each half to help them sit cut side up. Brush the cut sides with a little olive or avocado oil, then sprinkle with salt and pepper, as desired. Place on a baking sheet, cut side up, and bake at 400º F for 40-50 minutes, depending on size.
3. If using maple syrup and butter, place 1 tablespoon of each in the squash cavity after about half of roasting time. About 10 minutes later, baste dry squash surface with melted butter and maple syrup, then return to oven to finish roasting. For more information, check out my Roasted Acorn Squash with Maple Butter recipe.
4. A fork should very easily pierce the flesh when the squash is done.

How to Cook Acorn Squash in the Microwave:

1. Prepare acorn squash as directed but do not brush with oil. Sprinkle the cut sides with salt and pepper and place, cut sides down, on a microwave-safe plate. Microwave for 8 minutes on full power.
2. Test for doneness by piercing with a fork. If fork pierces easily, squash is done. If there is resistance, return to microwave for 2 more minutes on full power.
3. The squash can be eaten at this point, or you can carefully (Squash will be very hot!) turn the squash over and place it on a baking sheet. Brush with a little olive or avocado oil and broil for about 6 inches from the heating element, monitoring closely, for about 3-5 minutes or until golden brown in spots.

What’s The Best Way To Cook Acorn Squash?

I personally don’t think you can beat the flavor and texture of acorn squash when you roast it in the oven. I highly recommend that you roast it with maple syrup and butter for a really delicious treat. The maple brings out the natural sweetness and the butter enhances the flavor.

Can You Eat The Skin?

The skin of the roasted acorn squash is absolutely edible. Roasting makes in tender and it’s really tasty. It also contains a wealth of healthy vitamins in it along with fiber and antioxidants.

Is This Recipe Healthy?

Acorn squash is highly nutritious and especially rich in vitamins A, C, B, potassium, iron and magnesium. Half a squash roasted with a little oil is around 100 calories and it is naturally low in fat.

Serving Suggestions

Squash is in season during the fall, so it’s a great side dish to serve as part of your Thanksgiving meal. It’s also simple enough to cook that it can easily accompany a weeknight meal. Try it with:

• Lemon Garlic Salmon
• Turkey Breast with Gravy
• Steak with Bearnaise Sauce
• Bacon Wrapped Chicken

Chef’s Tips

• When prepping the squash, cut a small slice off of the bottom of each half so that they are stable when you place them on the baking tray.
• The squash is ready when a fork can easily pierce the flesh.
• I highly recommend roasting the squash with maple and butter for a really delicious side dish!

For More Easy Side Dish Recipes:

• Crockpot Vegan Mashed Potatoes
• Whole30 Sweet Potato Casserole
• Whole30 Green Beans
• Balsamic Brussels Sprouts

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