Delicious Acorn Squash with Apples, Pecans, and Pumpkin Seeds: A Fall Favorite

Embrace the flavors of fall with our Delicious Acorn Squash with Apples, Pecans, and Pumpkin Seeds recipe. This delightful dish combines sweet and savory elements, making it a perfect addition to your autumn menu. The blend of warm spices and crunchy toppings makes this recipe a comforting choice for chilly evenings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a celebration of autumn’s best ingredients. The tender acorn squash pairs beautifully with crisp apples, while pecans add a satisfying crunch. Pumpkin seeds provide a nutty flavor that complements the sweetness of the apples. It’s a wholesome dish that’s both flavorful and nourishing.

Whether you’re hosting a fall gathering or simply enjoying a weeknight dinner, this recipe will stand out. Its balanced combination of flavors and textures make it a seasonal favorite that’s both delicious and visually appealing.

Context/Background

The acorn squash has long been a staple in autumn cooking, cherished for its naturally sweet and nutty flavor. Paired with apples, pecans, and pumpkin seeds, this recipe leverages traditional fall ingredients, bringing together a harmonious blend of tastes deeply rooted in the season’s culinary traditions.

This dish draws inspiration from classic harvest-time meals, where seasonal produce is celebrated and used to its fullest potential. The use of spices like cinnamon and nutmeg pays homage to traditional fall spices, enhancing the natural sweetness of the squash and apples.

Recipe Details

Serves: 4

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 45 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour

Ingredients

• 2 acorn squashes, halved and seeded
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 apples, cored and diced
• 1/2 cup pecans, roughly chopped
• 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Brush the acorn squash halves with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Place them cut side down on a baking sheet.
3. Bake for 30 minutes or until the squash is fork-tender.
4. In a medium bowl, combine the apples, pecans, pumpkin seeds, maple syrup, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
5. Remove the squash from the oven and carefully turn them over. Fill each squash half with the apple and pecan mixture.
6. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the apples are tender.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Delicious Acorn Squash with Apples, Pecans, and Pumpkin Seeds

• Choose ripe acorn squash for the best flavor and texture.
• Use a sharp knife to carefully halve and seed the squash.
• Feel free to substitute maple syrup with honey for a different sweetness profile.
• For added flavor, toast the pecans and pumpkin seeds before mixing them in.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or roasted meats. Serve it as a side dish at Thanksgiving or as a stand-alone vegan entrée.

Storage and Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Final Thoughts

Our Delicious Acorn Squash with Apples, Pecans, and Pumpkin Seeds recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to savor the flavors of fall. It’s easy to prepare, bursting with flavor, and perfect for cozy dinners. Give it a try and enjoy the taste of autumn in every bite!

Recipe Notes

• To make this dish nut-free, substitute pecans with sunflower seeds.
• Experiment with different types of apples to find your preferred level of sweetness.