Аcorn squаsh , with its bumpy ribbed skin and sweet, nutty flavor, is a winter veggie lots of people love . It’s packed with vitаmins A and C , potаssium , and antiоxidants , so it’s tasty but also good for you . You can roast it , mash it , or stuff it to make all kinds of dishes that feel cozy on cold days .
In this recipe for Mаple Pecan Feta Roasted Аcorn Squash , we pushes the squash’s sweet notes by drizzling it with maple syrup and topping it with crunchy pecans and crumbly feta . The maple caramelizes a bit , the pecans give a nice crunch , and the feta adds a tangy bite that balances everything .
Cooking is often about mixing sweet , savory , and nutty tastes in a way that just works . This dish show how those flavors play together to make a meal that feels both comfy and special . Try roasting acorn squash with maple syrup , pecans and feta to taste a cozy , rich dish that also brings some health benefits .
What You'll Need
To make this Maple Pecan Feta Roasted Acorn Squash , you need a few simple items that pair well with the squash’s natural taste . Gather:
- Acorn squash - pick a firm one with deep green skin and clear ribs .
- Maple syrup - pure mаple syrup tastes best .
- Pecans - fresh and chopped for the right crunch .
- Feta cheese - use crumbled feta for that tangy flavor .
- Olive oil - a good olive oil helps bring the flavors together .
- Salt and pepper - for basic seasoning .
- Fresh herbs - thyme or rosemary for extra aroma .
- Optional: balsamic glaze - drizzling a bit on top adds zing .
Health Benefits of Acorn Squash
Acorn squash isn’t just yummy , it’s also full of important nutrients . This winter veggie gives you vitаmins A , C , and E , plus potаssium that helps your heart and blood pressure . Vitamin A keeps your eyesight strong and supports your immune system . Vitamin C helps your skin and fights off colds .
It also has antioxidants that help your body fight bad stuff called free radicals . Eating acorn squash can keep you healthy and add color and taste to your meals .
Benefits of Nuts (Pecans)
Pecans are not just tasty , they’re good for you too . They have healthy fats that can lower bad cholesterol and help your heart . You also get protein and minerals like zinc and magnesium from pecans , which support lots of body functions .
Benefits of Feta Cheese
Feta cheese gives a salty tang and adds calcium for strong bones and teeth . It also has probiotics , good bacteria that help your gut and digestion . Adding feta boosts flavor and nutrition .
Flavor Profile of the Dish
This Maple Pecan Feta Roasted Acorn Squash has layers of taste that work great together .
Sweetness from Maple Syrup
Maple syrup is the main sweet note here . As it roasts , it caramelizes and brings out the squash’s own sweetness . The warm , rich flavor of the syrup makes the dish feel homey .
Saltiness from Feta
The salty tang of feta balances the sweet syrup and squash . That sweet– salty mix makes each bite more interesting .
Crunchiness from Pecans
Pecans add a nice crunch against the soft squash and creamy feta . That contrast of textures makes every forkful fun to eat .
How to Make Maple Pecan Feta Roasted Acorn Squash
Preparation of Acorn Squash
First , pick a ripe acorn squash that’s firm and has deep green skin with clear ribs . Slice it in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds with a spoon .
Preparing the Glaze
In a small bowl , mix pure maple syrup , olive oil , and a pinch of salt and pepper . This glaze will help the squash caramelize and taste even better .
Roasting Procedure
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) . Place the squash halves cut-side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper . Drizzle the glaze over them so they’re evenly coated . Roast for about 25– 30 minutes , or until the squash is tender and the edges are golden .
Adding Pecans and Feta
Ten minutes before the squash is done , sprinkle the chopped pecans on top so they toast a little . When it’s out of the oven , crumble the feta over the warm squash .
Finishing Touches
Garnish with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra smell and flavor . If you like , add a drizzle of balsamic glaze to finish it off .
Serving Suggestions
You can serve this Maple Pecan Feta Roasted Acorn Squash as a main or as a side dish . It’s great with a green salad or grains like quinoa or farro for a full meal .
For holiday dinners or weeknight meals alike , this dish brings color and smell that people notice . Serve it right in the squash halves , or slice it into wedges for a fancier look .
Storage and Leftovers
To store , let the squash cool , then put it in an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to three days . Reheat in the oven at low temp so it stays soft and doesn’t dry out .
If you have leftovers , try adding them to salads , blending into soup , or serving with your favorite protein as a side .
FAQs
What is the best way to cut acorn squash?
Place the squash on a steady cutting board and slice off the ends for a stable base . Stand it up and cut from the stem down to the bottom in half . Scoop out seeds with a spoon and you’re set .
How can I make this recipe vegan?
Swap feta for a plant-based feta or skip cheese . You can also add nutritional yeast for a cheesy vibe , and check that your nuts and glaze are vegan .
Can I use different types of squash?
Yes , try butternut , kabocha , or delicata squash . Each type has its own taste and texture but will still work great .
How long does roasted acorn squash last in the fridge?
In an airtight container , it lasts up to three days . Make sure it cools before you seal the container .
What can I substitute for feta cheese?
If you don’t want feta , use goat cheese or cottage cheese instead . Vegan options made from nuts or tofu work well too .
Conclusion
Maple Pecan Feta Roasted Acorn Squash is more than just food ; it’s a cozy treat for fall and winter . With sweet , nutty , and savory layers , it will be a hit at any table . Try this recipe and tweak it your own way . We’d love to hear how it turns out !
Maple Pecan Feta Roasted Acorn Squash
Equipment
- 1 baking sheet
- 1 parchment paper optional
- 1 mixing bowl
- 1 spoon or spatula
- 1 sharp knife
- 1 cutting board
Ingredients
- 2 medium acorn squashes About 1.5 lbs each.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup pecans Roughly chopped.
- ½ cup feta cheese Crumble on top.
- fresh thyme leaves Optional, for garnish.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy clean-up if desired.
- Cut each acorn squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Place the squash halves cut side up on the prepared baking sheet.
- In a small mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, 2 tablespoons of maple syrup, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Brush the olive oil mixture generously over the cut sides of the acorn squash.
- Roast the squash in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until the flesh is tender and lightly browned. Check for doneness by piercing it with a fork.
- In the last 5 minutes of roasting, sprinkle the chopped pecans over the squash and drizzle with the remaining 2 tablespoons of maple syrup. Return to the oven to finish roasting.
- Once the squash is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly. Top each half with crumbled feta cheese and fresh thyme leaves if desired.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
