Embrace the flavors of fall with this Maple Pecan Goat Cheese Roasted Acorn Squash!
This dish brings together the perfect balance of sweet and savory, with roasted acorn squash drizzled in maple syrup, topped with crunchy pecans and creamy goat cheese.
Whether served as a vegetarian main course or a hearty side dish, it’s the ideal addition to your autumn or holiday spread. Ready to roast and indulge in these cozy flavors?
Maple Pecan Goat Cheese Roasted Acorn Squash Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 medium acorn squashes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/2 cup pecans, roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the Squash:
- Cut each acorn squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
- Brush the cut sides with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Roast the Squash:
- Place the squash halves cut side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Roast in the oven for 30-35 minutes, until the flesh is fork-tender.
4. Prepare the Toppings:
- While the squash is roasting, roughly chop the pecans and crumble the goat cheese.
5. Add Toppings:
- Remove the squash from the oven and turn the halves cut side up.
- Drizzle with maple syrup and sprinkle with chopped pecans and crumbled goat cheese.
6. Finish Roasting:
- Return the squash to the oven and roast for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the maple syrup to caramelize and the goat cheese to warm.
7. Cool and Serve:
- Let the squash cool for a few minutes before transferring to a serving dish.
- Optionally, drizzle with extra maple syrup and sprinkle more pecans and goat cheese for added richness.
Preparation Time
- Total time: Approximately 50 minutes
How to Serve
As a Main Course:
Serve each roasted acorn squash half as a satisfying vegetarian main course. The combination of sweet maple syrup, crunchy pecans, and creamy goat cheese provides a balanced and filling meal. Pair it with a light side salad of mixed greens, apples, and a vinaigrette dressing to complement the flavors of the squash.
For a more substantial meal, you can add a protein-rich side dish, such as quinoa or wild rice, which will soak up the flavors of the squash and provide a wholesome accompaniment.
As a Side Dish:
This roasted acorn squash makes a perfect side dish for roasted meats, such as turkey, chicken, or pork. The sweetness of the maple syrup and the tanginess of the goat cheese will enhance the savory flavors of the meat, creating a well-rounded meal.
It also pairs wonderfully with holiday feasts, particularly during Thanksgiving or Christmas, adding a touch of seasonal flavor to the table. Consider serving it alongside traditional dishes like stuffing, cranberry sauce, or green beans.
This Maple Pecan Goat Cheese Roasted Acorn Squash is the perfect way to elevate your fall or holiday meals with its combination of textures and flavors.
Whether you serve it as a beautiful main course or a crowd-pleasing side, this dish brings together seasonal ingredients that are sure to leave everyone satisfied.
Enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of autumn with every bite!