Similar to those recipes, this roasted acorn squash recipe is vegan, gluten-free and low-carb friendly, which is ideal if you are serving people with multiple dietary restrictions.
Ingredients
We’re using lots of classic fall flavors in this recipe for roasted acorn squash. The maple and cinnamon mixture complements the nutty, buttery flavors of the squash, and a pinch of salt and pepper adds a savory element that perfectly highlights the sweetness of this recipe. All you need are a few simple ingredients:
Acorn squash: Green, white, and even golden acorn squash would work just fine for this paleo acorn squash recipe, or you can even use the smaller variation called “carnival squash” for roasted carnival squash slices. Try to choose a squash between 1 and 1 ½ pounds, which will yield about 4-5 slices. When selecting your squash at the store, look for one with skin that’s green and orange in color with a smooth, slightly dull appearance. Give the flesh of the squash a squeeze to ensure it’s firm, and choose one that feels heavy for its size. For the olive oil-maple syrup mixture, gather olive oil, pure maple syrup, ground cinnamon, kosher salt, ground black pepper, and (optional) chopped pecans or pumpkin seeds and chopped fresh herbs such as sage leaves, thyme, or parsley.
How Do You Cut Acorn Squash into Slices
Cutting a squash may seem like a daunting task because of the vegetable’s size, but this easy step-by-step guide will help you prepare your squash slices for roasting in no time. Here’s how to cut up acorn squash:
Oil: While I used olive oil in this healthy acorn squash recipe, you could also use coconut oil or avocado oil. For an extra rich flavor, try using melted butter instead.Maple Syrup: I chose maple syrup for the sweet component of this recipe so that everyone, including my vegan friends, can enjoy this vegan roasted acorn squash! However, if you’re not vegan and don’t have any maple syrup on hand, feel free to use honey instead. Seasoning: If you’re itching to use those warm autumn spices, like ground cloves, allspice, or nutmeg, add them to the maple syrup mixture before brushing it on the slices for an extra cozy flavor. Topping ideas: To add an extra nutty crunch and take this caramelized acorn squash to the next level, try topping the slices with nuts or seeds like pumpkin seeds, walnuts, or pecans. I recommend roasting your nuts or seeds in the oven or in a pan to really bring out their flavor. Simply add your desired toppings to the roast sliced acorn squash once it comes out of the oven. Fresh herbs: It’s amazing how a just sprinkle of fresh herbs can perfectly complement the nutty flavor of this slow-roasted acorn squash recipe. If desired, garnish your oven-roasted acorn squash slices with fresh thyme, sage, or parsley after the baked squash slices come out of the oven. Brown sugar: Brown sugar is often paired with similar golden acorn squash recipes to add a touch of sweetness. We like to stray away from refined sugars here on the blog; unfortunately, brown sugar falls into that category. While you’re free to dust your squash slices with brown sugar if desired, I recommend using coconut sugar instead. They have a very similar flavor profile, and coconut sugar still provides that warm sweetness! Dust a tablespoon of coconut sugar over the slices while they’re warm.
How to Bake Acorn Squash Slices
Once you prepare acorn squash by cutting it into slices, all you have to do is brush on the maple syrup-olive oil mixture and roast your acorn squash slices in the oven. Plus, your kitchen will smell heavenly while these are baking! Here’s how to roast acorn squash slices:
How to Store Leftovers
Store leftover sliced roasted squash in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Serve it as a healthy side dish: If you’re already planning your holiday meal spread, be sure to include this easy recipe as a festive acorn squash side dish. This recipe pairs well with other classic holiday dinner sides like my Vegetarian Cornbread Stuffing, my Wild Rice Stuffing, or my Wild Mushroom Stuffing. Another perfect side dish that completes any holiday table is this Mashed Potato Casserole! It pairs well with: The sweet, caramelized flavors of this baked acorn squash with maple syrup are a great complement to savory, rich meat dishes. Try pairing this easy roasted acorn squash with noodle dishes like Spaghetti Bolognese or Beef Stroganoff, or try serving acorn squash with classic dishes like Ground Turkey Meatloaf or Chicken Fricassee.
You can technically freeze baked acorn squash, but I find that it loses its texture after it is thawed. Therefore I would not recommend freezing it.
Other Squash Recipes You Might Like
Stuffed Acorn Squash Roasted Butternut Squash HalvesSquash Noodles Recipe
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Omit the maple syrup: Since the syrup mixture gives this recipe a kick of sweetness, simply omit the syrup for a sugar-free acorn squash recipe. Doing so also lets the squash’s natural sweetness shine through and gives you a more savory baked acorn squash flavor. Switch up the spices: Instead of using ground cinnamon, which is usually paired with sweet flavors, try seasoning acorn squash with ¼ teaspoon of each chili powder (or paprika) and garlic powder. Add some cheese: The nuttiness of parmesan cheese perfectly complements the caramelized flavors of roasted squash and gives it a more savory flavor profile. Add some chopped fresh herbs and sprinkle on 2-3 tablespoons of parmesan cheese for herb roasted parmesan acorn squash.
