Roasted Acorn Squash with Maple Pecans – A Sweet & Savory Fall Delight 🍁🍠
Embrace autumn with this cozy and elegant *Roasted Acorn Squash with Maple Pecans*. The caramelized squash pairs beautifully with crunchy maple-glazed pecans, making it the perfect side for fall dinners or festive holiday tables. Naturally sweet, warmly spiced, and absolutely irresistible. 🍂🥄
Why You’ll Love This Recipe 💚
- ✅ Seasonal Favorite: Celebrates the best of fall produce.
- ✅ Beautiful Presentation: Looks stunning on any table.
- ✅ Vegan-Friendly: Made with plant-based ingredients.
🍂 Ingredients
- 1 medium acorn squash, halved and seeded
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1½ tbsp maple syrup
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ⅓ cup raw pecans
- 1 tsp coconut oil (or butter)
- 1 tbsp maple syrup (for pecans)
- Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat and prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Season squash: Slice acorn squash into 1-inch crescents. In a bowl, toss with olive oil, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
- Roast: Spread slices in a single layer and roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until tender and golden.
- Maple pecans: In a small skillet, melt coconut oil over medium heat. Add pecans and toast for 2–3 minutes. Stir in maple syrup and cook until sticky and caramelized (1–2 minutes). Let cool.
- Serve: Arrange roasted squash on a platter, top with maple pecans, and garnish with thyme if desired.
💡 Pro Tips & Variations
- ✨ Use Delicata: Substitute delicata squash for a softer, edible skin.
- ✨ Add Goat Cheese: Crumbled goat cheese balances the sweetness beautifully.
- ✨ Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne for a subtle kick.
🥗 Nutritional Benefits
Acorn squash is rich in vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. Pecans add healthy fats and a satisfying crunch, while maple syrup gives natural sweetness without refined sugars.
🥡 Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
- 🧊 Make-ahead: Roast squash and prepare pecans up to 2 days ahead. Reheat before serving.
- 🥡 Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- 🔥 Reheat: Warm in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes to crisp up pecans.
❓ FAQ
- Can I use frozen squash?
Yes, thaw and pat dry before roasting for best texture. - What can I use instead of pecans?
Walnuts or almonds make great substitutes. - Is this dish vegan?
Yes—just use coconut oil instead of butter for the pecans.
Fall Flavors, Roasted to Perfection 🍁🍽️
Share this cozy squash dish at your next gathering, and bring autumn to your plate in the most delicious way. 💚
