Citrus-Glazed Acorn Squash Rings
Transform your table with these delightful Citrus-Glazed Acorn Squash Rings, a dish that marries the earthy sweetness of acorn squash with a zesty orange glaze. This recipe, inspired by a beloved classic from a 2002 issue of Taste of Home, yields tender, caramelized rings that are perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy family dinner. Effortlessly colorful and bursting with flavor, these glazed squash rings are sure to become a family favorite year after year.
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
3
Ingredients
Ingredients
Acorn Squash
2 (Medium, cut into 1/2 inch slices with seeds discarded.)
Corn Syrup
1/4 cup (None.)
Orange Juice
1 teaspoon (Freshly squeezed.)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
Cut the acorn squash into 1/2-inch slices and remove the seeds.
3
In a large roasting pan, arrange the squash rings in a single layer. Pour in hot water to a depth of 1/4 inch.
4
Cover the pan with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes, allowing the squash to steam and soften.
5
Carefully transfer each cooked squash ring to an ungreased 15-inch x 10-inch x 1-inch baking pan, ensuring they are spaced evenly.
6
In a small bowl, combine the corn syrup and orange juice, mixing well.
7
Use a brush to generously apply the glaze over each squash ring.
8
Return the pan to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 30-40 minutes, basting the squash with the glaze every 10 minutes, until the rings are tender and caramelized.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Citrus-Glazed Acorn Squash Rings?
They are tender, caramelized squash slices glazed with a mixture of corn syrup and orange juice, perfect for holidays or family dinners.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
What is the main ingredient of this dish?
The main ingredient is medium acorn squash, cut into 1/2-inch slices.
What ingredients are needed for the glaze?
The glaze is made from 1/4 cup of corn syrup and 1 teaspoon of orange juice.
What temperature should the oven be preheated to?
The oven should be preheated to 350°F (175°C).
How should I prepare the acorn squash?
Cut the squash into 1/2-inch slices and ensure all seeds are removed and discarded.
Why is hot water used in the first baking step?
Hot water is added to the roasting pan to steam and soften the squash during the initial 20-minute covered bake.
How deep should the water be in the roasting pan?
Pour in hot water to a depth of 1/4 inch.
Should the squash be covered while baking?
It should be covered with aluminum foil for the first 20 minutes of baking, then uncovered for the remainder of the time.
What size pan is recommended for the second stage of baking?
A 15-inch x 10-inch x 1-inch ungreased baking pan is recommended.
How do I apply the glaze to the squash?
Use a brush to generously apply the corn syrup and orange juice mixture over each squash ring.
How long is the second baking period?
The second baking period lasts between 30 to 40 minutes.
How often should I baste the squash rings?
You should baste the squash with the glaze every 10 minutes while it is in the oven uncovered.
What is the final texture of the squash?
The squash should be tender and caramelized when finished.
What inspired this recipe?
This recipe was inspired by a classic dish from a 2002 issue of Taste of Home.
Is this recipe suitable for holiday gatherings?
Yes, its colorful appearance and sweet-zesty flavor make it ideal for festive meals.
Can I use fresh orange juice?
Yes, the recipe suggests using 1 teaspoon of freshly squeezed orange juice.
How many ingredients are required in total?
There are only 3 primary ingredients: acorn squash, corn syrup, and orange juice.
Is the squash peeled before slicing?
No, the recipe calls for slicing the squash with the skin on; it helps the rings hold their shape.
What category does this recipe fall under?
It is categorized as a Vegetable side dish.
Is this a low-fat recipe?
Since it uses no oil or butter, only squash, syrup, and juice, it is naturally very low in fat.
Can I substitute corn syrup with maple syrup?
While the recipe specifies corn syrup, maple syrup can be used for a different flavor profile, though the consistency may vary.
What color is the final dish?
The dish is colorful with the deep orange/green of the squash and a golden-brown caramelized glaze.
How thick should the squash slices be?
The squash should be cut into 1/2-inch thick slices.
What tools are needed for the glaze?
A small bowl for mixing and a basting brush for application are needed.
Is the roasting pan greased?
The recipe specifies using an ungreased baking pan for the second stage.
Does this dish have a sweet or savory profile?
It has a predominantly sweet profile due to the acorn squash's natural sugars and the corn syrup glaze.
How do I know the squash is done?
The squash is done when it is fork-tender and the glaze has thickened and caramelized on the surface.
What are some tags associated with this recipe?
Common tags include holiday recipe, easy recipes, roasted squash, and glazed vegetables.
Can I make this recipe in a smaller oven?
Yes, as long as you have space for a 15x10 inch pan or can split the batch into two smaller pans.