Parmesan Herb Roasted Acorn Squash

Parmesan Herb Roasted Acorn Squash: A Savory Fall Side Dish

As the crisp air of fall settles in, there’s nothing quite like the warm, comforting flavors of roasted vegetables to bring a meal together. This Parmesan Herb Roasted Acorn Squash recipe is the perfect way to showcase the natural sweetness of acorn squash, complemented by a savory blend of parmesan cheese and fragrant herbs. With its tender texture and crispy, golden edges, this dish makes an excellent side for any autumn meal, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive holiday gathering.

Ingredients

• 2 acorn squash (small to medium-sized)
• ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 cup finely grated parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). The high heat will help the squash slices roast to perfection, developing a tender interior and a lightly crisp, golden-brown exterior.

2. Prepare the Acorn Squash

Slice the top and bottom off each acorn squash to create flat ends, making them easier to handle. Place each squash on one of its flat ends and slice it in half vertically. Using a spoon, scoop out the seeds and stringy pulp from the center of each half. Once cleaned, cut each half into slices about 1 inch thick. These slices will roast evenly and provide the perfect bite-sized pieces for serving.

3. Season the Squash

In a large mixing bowl, combine the squash slices with the olive oil, finely grated parmesan cheese, garlic powder, kosher salt, dried basil, dried thyme, and dried oregano. Use your hands to toss the ingredients together, ensuring each slice of squash is thoroughly coated with the parmesan herb mixture. The olive oil helps the seasoning adhere to the squash and also aids in the roasting process, creating a deliciously crispy texture.

4. Arrange and Roast

Line a baking tray with parchment paper for easy cleanup and arrange the seasoned squash slices in a single layer on the tray. If there’s any remaining parmesan herb mixture in the bowl, press it onto the top side of the slices for an extra burst of flavor. Place the tray in the preheated oven and roast the squash for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the slices are tender and lightly golden on top. The aroma of roasting herbs and parmesan will fill your kitchen, signaling that something delicious is on the way.

5. Serve and Enjoy

Once roasted to perfection, transfer the acorn squash slices to a serving platter. This dish is best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven. The combination of the tender squash, crispy parmesan, and fragrant herbs makes for a truly irresistible side dish.

Serving Suggestions

Parmesan Herb Roasted Acorn Squash pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses. Serve it alongside roasted chicken or even a hearty vegetarian main like stuffed mushrooms or lentil loaf. It also makes a great addition to your Thanksgiving or holiday table, offering a savory contrast to other rich and sweet dishes.

Nutrition Information

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Calories: 180 kcal per serving
• Servings: Makes 4 servings

Conclusion

This Parmesan Herb Roasted Acorn Squash is a simple yet flavorful side dish that captures the essence of fall. The combination of parmesan cheese and dried herbs elevates the natural sweetness of the squash, creating a dish that’s both comforting and elegant. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply want to enjoy the flavors of the season, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Give it a try, and savor the delicious taste of roasted acorn squash with every bite!

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