Indulge in the delectable flavors of autumn with Chef John's Baked Acorn Squash, a culinary masterpiece that combines the natural sweetness of acorn squash with a symphony of savory spices. This delightful dish is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a visual spectacle, boasting vibrant colors and an alluring aroma that will tantalize your senses.
The recipe features a whole acorn squash, halved and roasted to perfection, creating a tender and flavorful base for a medley of delectable fillings. Choose from a variety of stuffing options, including a classic breadcrumb mixture, a savory sausage and apple stuffing, or a vegetarian delight of roasted vegetables and quinoa. Each filling promises a unique taste experience, catering to diverse palates and dietary preferences.
For those seeking a rich and satisfying meal, the breadcrumb stuffing is an excellent choice. A combination of seasoned breadcrumbs, herbs, and grated Parmesan cheese creates a savory and crispy topping that complements the sweet squash. Alternatively, the sausage and apple stuffing offers a hearty and flavorful twist, with ground sausage, crisp apples, and aromatic spices blending together for a tantalizing filling.
Vegetarians will delight in the roasted vegetable and quinoa stuffing, a vibrant and wholesome option. A medley of roasted vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms, is combined with fluffy quinoa and seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices. This filling is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a guilt-free indulgence.
No matter your choice of stuffing, Chef John's Baked Acorn Squash is sure to impress. Its combination of flavors, textures, and colors makes it a stunning centerpiece for any table. Whether you're hosting a special occasion dinner or simply seeking a comforting and flavorful meal, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings.
CHEF JOHN'S BAKED ACORN SQUASH
I like how this tastes, but scoring the squash with a knife before baking really makes for a great presentation. It also allows the simple but delicious glaze to penetrate nice and deep.
Provided by Chef John
Categories Side Dish Vegetables Squash Acorn Squash Side Dish Recipes
Time 1h5m
Yield 4
Number Of Ingredients 8
Steps:
- Preheat an oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
- Score the squash by making 1/4-inch deep slashes into the flesh of the squash. Place in baking dish. Brush with orange juice and sprinkle with salt.
- Bake in the preheated oven until lightly browned, about 30 min.
- Meanwhile, simmer butter, maple syrup, brown sugar, black pepper, and cayenne pepper in a small skillet over medium heat until smooth and the sugar has dissolved, about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove the squash from the oven. Pour out any liquid that may have collected in the squash. Brush the glaze over each squash half. Return to the oven until tender, about 20 more minutes. Spoon any glaze that has collected at the bottom of the squash over the edges of the squash. Season with additional salt, if desired.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 194.2 calories, Carbohydrate 37.1 g, Cholesterol 15.3 mg, Fat 6.1 g, Fiber 3.8 g, Protein 2.2 g, SaturatedFat 3.7 g, Sodium 10.3 mg, Sugar 15.4 g
CHEF JOHN'S BAKED ACORN SQUASH
I like how this tastes, but scoring the squash with a knife before baking really makes for a great presentation. It also allows the simple but delicious glaze to penetrate nice and deep.
Provided by Chef John
Categories Acorn Squash Side Dishes
Time 1h5m
Yield 4
Number Of Ingredients 8
Steps:
- Preheat an oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
- Score the squash by making 1/4-inch deep slashes into the flesh of the squash. Place in baking dish. Brush with orange juice and sprinkle with salt.
- Bake in the preheated oven until lightly browned, about 30 min.
- Meanwhile, simmer butter, maple syrup, brown sugar, black pepper, and cayenne pepper in a small skillet over medium heat until smooth and the sugar has dissolved, about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove the squash from the oven. Pour out any liquid that may have collected in the squash. Brush the glaze over each squash half. Return to the oven until tender, about 20 more minutes. Spoon any glaze that has collected at the bottom of the squash over the edges of the squash. Season with additional salt, if desired.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 194.2 calories, Carbohydrate 37.1 g, Cholesterol 15.3 mg, Fat 6.1 g, Fiber 3.8 g, Protein 2.2 g, SaturatedFat 3.7 g, Sodium 10.3 mg, Sugar 15.4 g
CHEF JOHN'S BAKED ACORN SQUASH
I like how this tastes, but scoring the squash with a knife before baking really makes for a great presentation. It also allows the simple but delicious glaze to penetrate nice and deep.
Provided by Chef John
Categories Acorn Squash Side Dishes
Time 1h5m
Yield 4
Number Of Ingredients 8
Steps:
- Preheat an oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
- Score the squash by making 1/4-inch deep slashes into the flesh of the squash. Place in baking dish. Brush with orange juice and sprinkle with salt.
- Bake in the preheated oven until lightly browned, about 30 min.
- Meanwhile, simmer butter, maple syrup, brown sugar, black pepper, and cayenne pepper in a small skillet over medium heat until smooth and the sugar has dissolved, about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove the squash from the oven. Pour out any liquid that may have collected in the squash. Brush the glaze over each squash half. Return to the oven until tender, about 20 more minutes. Spoon any glaze that has collected at the bottom of the squash over the edges of the squash. Season with additional salt, if desired.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 194.2 calories, Carbohydrate 37.1 g, Cholesterol 15.3 mg, Fat 6.1 g, Fiber 3.8 g, Protein 2.2 g, SaturatedFat 3.7 g, Sodium 10.3 mg, Sugar 15.4 g
Tips:
- Choose the right acorn squash: Look for small to medium-sized squash that are heavy for their size and have a deep green color.
- Prepare the squash properly: Cut the squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds and pulp. Drizzle the squash with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Roast the squash at a high temperature: This will help to caramelize the squash and give it a slightly crispy exterior.
- Add flavorful ingredients: Stuff the squash with your favorite fillings, such as sausage, bacon, vegetables, or cheese. You can also add herbs and spices to the squash for extra flavor.
- Serve the squash immediately: Acorn squash is best served hot and fresh out of the oven.
Conclusion:
Chef John's baked acorn squash is a delicious and versatile dish that is perfect for a fall meal. With its sweet and nutty flavor, acorn squash is a great addition to any table. The squash can be stuffed with a variety of fillings, making it a customizable dish that can be enjoyed by everyone. Whether you are looking for a simple side dish or a hearty main course, Chef John's baked acorn squash is sure to please.
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