Imagine a dish that captures the very essence of fall in a single bite - sweet, warm, and utterly comforting. This Acorn Squash with Applesauce recipe is not just a side dish; it's a culinary hug that transforms a humble squash into a mouthwatering masterpiece that will make your taste buds dance with delight. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe promises to elevate your autumn dining experience with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 1 acorn squash, halved and seeded
- 1 cup applesauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C), ensuring the rack is positioned in the middle of the oven.
- Carefully slice the acorn squash in half lengthwise using a sharp chef's knife. Use a spoon to scoop out and discard the seeds and stringy pulp from the center of each squash half.
- Place the squash halves cut-side up on a rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Lightly season the inside of each squash half with a pinch of salt.
- In a small bowl, mix the applesauce with brown sugar and ground cinnamon until well combined.
- Spoon the cinnamon-applesauce mixture evenly into the cavity of each squash half, filling them generously.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 35-40 minutes, or until the squash is tender when pierced with a fork and the edges are slightly caramelized.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the filling to set and cool slightly.
- Serve warm, optionally garnishing with an extra sprinkle of cinnamon or a small pat of butter if desired.
Tips
- Choose a ripe acorn squash: Look for a squash with deep, dark green color and a hard, matte skin without soft spots.
- Cutting tip: To make halving the squash easier, microwave it for 2-3 minutes to soften the skin slightly before slicing.
- For extra richness, consider using homemade applesauce or a high-quality, spiced apple butter.
- Customize the sweetness: Adjust the brown sugar to your taste preference, or substitute with maple syrup for a different flavor profile.
- Check doneness by inserting a fork - the squash should be tender and easily pierced when fully cooked.
- For a more decadent version, top with chopped pecans or a sprinkle of nutmeg before serving.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated in the oven to maintain their texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 130kcal
Carbohydrates: 32g
Protein: 1g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
