Roasted Acorn Squash With Parmesan Cheese

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Roasted Acorn Squash With Parmesan Cheese

Acorn squash, with its distinctive ribbed shape and sweet, nutty flavor, is a favorite among winter squash varieties. Roasting acorn squash brings out its natural sweetness, making it a delightful dish on its own or as a side. Adding Parmesan cheese enhances its savory notes, creating a perfect balance of flavors. This Roasted Acorn Squash With Parmesan Cheese recipe is not only easy to prepare but also packed with nutrients, making it a healthy and delicious option for any meal.

Origins and Interesting Facts

Acorn squash, native to North and Central America, was a staple in the diets of indigenous peoples long before the arrival of European settlers. Its popularity grew over the years due to its versatility and ease of storage during the winter months. Acorn squash is not just tasty; it’s also rich in vitamins A and C, potassium, and fiber, making it a nutritious choice for health-conscious individuals.

Ingredients

For this oven-roasted acorn squash with parmesan cheese recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

  • 1 medium acorn squash
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is ideal for roasting acorn squash, allowing it to caramelize beautifully while keeping its interior tender.

Step 2: Prepare the Squash

  1. Wash the acorn squash thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris.
  2. Cut the squash in half lengthwise using a sharp knife. Be cautious, as the skin can be tough.
  3. Scoop out the seeds and stringy pulp using a spoon. You can save the seeds for roasting later if desired.
  4. Slice the squash into 1/2-inch thick slices for even roasting. You can also cut it into cubes for roasted acorn squash cubes if you prefer bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Season the Squash

  1. In a large mixing bowl, toss the squash slices or cubes with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Ensure each piece is evenly coated with the seasoning.

Step 4: Roast the Squash

  1. Arrange the seasoned squash pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  2. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even browning. The squash is done when it is tender and golden brown.

Step 5: Add the Parmesan Cheese

  1. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the roasted squash during the last 5 minutes of baking. This will allow the cheese to melt and form a crispy, savory crust.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Remove the squash from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
  2. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for an added burst of color and flavor, if desired.

Tips and Variations

Tips for Perfectly Roasted Acorn Squash

  • Uniform Slices: To ensure even cooking, slice the squash uniformly. This will prevent some pieces from becoming overcooked while others remain undercooked.
  • Use Fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese will melt better and provide a richer flavor compared to pre-packaged varieties.
  • Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your taste. Adding a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon can complement the squash’s natural sweetness.

Variations

  • Roasted Acorn Squash Slices With Brown Sugar: For a sweeter twist, sprinkle brown sugar on the squash slices before roasting. This creates a caramelized, candy-like coating.
  • Stuffed Acorn Squash Recipes: Hollow out the squash halves a bit more and fill them with a mixture of cooked quinoa, nuts, and dried fruits for a hearty and nutritious meal.
  • Roasted Acorn Squash With Herbs: Add herbs like rosemary or thyme to the seasoning mix for an aromatic touch.

Nutritional Information

Here is the approximate nutritional information per serving of roasted acorn squash with Parmesan cheese (based on four servings):

  • Calories: 150
  • Protein: 4g
  • Carbohydrates: 16g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 2g
  • Fat: 9g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 4mg
  • Sodium: 250mg
  • Vitamin A: 30% of the Daily Value
  • Vitamin C: 20% of the Daily Value

Roasted Acorn Squash With Parmesan Cheese is a simple yet delightful dish that brings out the best of this versatile vegetable. Whether you’re looking for a comforting side dish or a nutritious main course, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. Its perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, combined with the rich nuttiness of Parmesan, makes it a crowd-pleaser.

Don’t forget to explore other acorn squash recipes on easycrispyrecipes.com for more delicious ideas. If you enjoyed this recipe, please leave a comment below, share it on social media, and subscribe to our newsletter for more culinary inspiration. Happy cooking.

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