Autumn Harvest Acorn Squash with Apple-Pecan Filling
Delight in the flavors of the fall season with this nourishing Autumn Harvest Acorn Squash with Apple-Pecan Filling. This easy-to-make dish is perfect as a hearty side or a main vegetarian entree. Infused with warm spices, sweet apples, and the crunchy texture of pecans, this recipe brings together the comforting tastes of autumn without the overload of sugar. It's an adaptable recipe that's easy to double or halve, making it a great choice for both small and large gatherings. Whether for a cozy family dinner or a festive holiday feast, this acorn squash dish is sure to impress and satisfy everyone at the table.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Acorn squash
2 (halved and seeded)
Apples
3 cups (peeled and cubed (use Gala or your choice))
Pecans
1/2 cup (chopped)
Raisins
2 tablespoons (none)
Brown sugar
1/4 cup (packed)
Ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon (none)
Butter
2 tablespoons (melted)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2
In a large baking dish, pour in about 1/4-inch of hot water. Arrange the halved acorn squashes cut-side down in the dish.
3
Bake the squash in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, allowing them to soften slightly.
4
While the squash bakes, in a mixing bowl, combine the peeled and cubed apples, chopped pecans, raisins, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and melted butter. Mix well until the apples are evenly coated.
5
After 30 minutes, carefully remove the baking dish from the oven and discard the hot water.
6
Turn the squash halves over so they are cut-side up, and generously fill each hollow with the apple mixture, pressing it gently to pack it in.
7
Return the stuffed squash to the oven and bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until both the apples and squash are tender and lightly caramelized.
8
Once done, remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your vibrant and delicious Autumn Harvest dish!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Autumn Harvest Acorn Squash with Apple-Pecan Filling?
It is a nourishing fall-themed dish featuring roasted acorn squash halves stuffed with a mixture of apples, pecans, raisins, and warm spices.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this dish is a perfect vegetarian entree or a hearty side dish.
What temperature should I set my oven to?
You should preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
How many acorn squashes are needed for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 2 acorn squashes, halved and seeded.
What type of apples should I use?
Gala apples are recommended, but you can use any variety of your choice.
Do I need to peel the apples?
Yes, the apples should be peeled and cubed for the filling.
How much apple filling is required?
You will need 3 cups of peeled and cubed apples.
What gives the filling its crunch?
The 1/2 cup of chopped pecans provides a crunchy texture to the dish.
Are there raisins in this recipe?
Yes, the recipe includes 2 tablespoons of raisins for added sweetness.
What spices are used for seasoning?
The filling is seasoned with 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon.
How much brown sugar is in the recipe?
The recipe uses 1/4 cup of packed brown sugar.
How much butter is needed for the apple mixture?
You will need 2 tablespoons of melted butter.
Why do I bake the squash with water in the dish?
Pouring 1/4-inch of hot water into the baking dish helps the squash soften during the initial baking phase.
How long is the initial bake time for the squash?
The squash should be baked cut-side down for 30 minutes initially.
When do I flip the squash?
After the first 30 minutes of baking, remove the water and turn the squash halves cut-side up.
How long do I bake the squash once it is stuffed?
Bake the stuffed squash for an additional 30 minutes.
How do I know when the dish is ready to serve?
The dish is done when both the apples and the squash are tender and lightly caramelized.
Is this recipe easy to scale for a large group?
Yes, this recipe is easily doubled or halved depending on your needs.
Can I serve this as a side dish?
Absolutely, it works great as both a side dish and a main vegetarian entree.
Is this a good recipe for the holidays?
Yes, it is an excellent choice for a festive holiday feast or a cozy family dinner.
Does this recipe contain a lot of sugar?
No, it is designed to provide autumn flavors without an overload of sugar.
What ingredients are needed for the filling?
The filling consists of apples, pecans, raisins, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and melted butter.
Should I let the squash cool before serving?
Yes, it is recommended to let the dish cool slightly before enjoying it.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 7 primary ingredients used in this recipe.
Can I use a different type of nut?
While the recipe specifies pecans, it is adaptable and you could substitute other nuts like walnuts.
How do I arrange the squash for the first bake?
Place the squash halves cut-side down in the baking dish with hot water.
What is the preparation for the acorn squash?
The acorn squash should be halved and the seeds should be removed.
What is the preparation for the pecans?
The pecans should be chopped before being added to the apple mixture.
Can I make this for a small gathering?
Yes, the recipe is versatile and perfect for small gatherings or larger parties.
Is this recipe considered a healthy option?
Yes, it is described as a nourishing and healthy side dish using wholesome autumn ingredients.