As soon as glossy green round squashes start to pop up farmers markets and grocery stores, it’s time for all the acorn squash recipes! Roast it, stuff it, puree it into soup: there are so many tasty ways to use this little squash and enjoy its bright and beautiful tender flesh. Here are some of the best ways we’ve found to eat it, and a few recipes from some favorite recipe developers and food bloggers.
And now…our top acorn squash recipes!
How to roast acorn squash
Acorn squash is easy to make: the only hard part is cutting it! To roast acorn squash, you’ll need to halve the squash using a very sharp knife and then scoop out the seeds. Then cut the acorn squash into quarters — you also can cut it into half moons (like in the salad below). Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Then place the squash onto a parchment paper-lined baking tray. Got an Instant Pot? Here’s a version where you can cook both the acorn squash and the rice in the pressure cooker. See Instant Pot Acorn Squash It takes about 40 minutes to roast the squash; test and make sure it’s fork tender. The edges will turn slightly brown in the oven and the squash should smell slightly nutty as well.
Acorn squash nutrition
So, what’s in squash that makes it so great? According to the Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, squash is full of beta carotene, protein, Vitamin C & B6, potassium, and fiber. While there are no studies to cite on specific health benefits of winter squash, a diet rich in vegetables and fruits can reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke, prevent some types of cancer, and have a positive effect on blood sugar to keep your appetite in check. Basically: acorn squash is full of vitamins and nutrients. So why not make it part of your fall recipe repertoire? Note: Several of these Butternut Squash Recipes can also be made with acorn squash!
More squash recipes
Like butternut? Got a spaghetti squash instead? Found a delicata and not sure how to use it? Here are some resources for other types of squash:
Try 15 Delicata Squash Recipes for the Season Go for 21 Tasty Butternut Squash Recipes Grab all our favorite 8 Great Spaghetti Squash Recipes In summer, make 15 Tasty Yellow Squash Recipes
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2 acorn squash 1 tablespoon olive oil 1/2 to 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt Fresh ground black pepper
For serving
3 tablespoons salted butter (or vegan butter) 1 tablespoon maple syrup ¼ cup chopped pecans Sea salt, to garnish
