Savory Asparagus and Acorn Squash Medallions
Discover a delightful combination of fresh asparagus and roasted acorn squash in this visually appealing and delicious dish. The Savory Asparagus and Acorn Squash Medallions bring together the earthy flavors of acorn squash and the vibrant crunch of asparagus, perfectly complemented by a rich, buttery walnut sauce. Ideal for gatherings or as a sophisticated side dish, this recipe serves four and promises to impress with its healthy ingredients and stunning presentation.
N/A
Servings
150
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Asparagus spears
16 (Trimmed)
Acorn squash
2 small (Cut into rings)
Clarified butter
1/4 cup (Melted)
Sugar
2 tablespoons (Granulated)
Walnuts
1/2 cup (Chopped)
Fresh lemon juice
1/4 cup (Squeezed)
Cider vinegar
2 tablespoons (Liquid)
Apple cider
6 tablespoons (Liquid)
Instructions
1
Begin by trimming the thick ends off the asparagus spears. Cut the acorn squash in half crosswise, remove the seeds, and slice each half into approximately 1/4-inch rings.
2
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Carefully add the acorn squash rings and cook until they are just tender. Once done, immediately drain and set aside. Repeat the process for the asparagus, cooking only until they are bright green and tender, then drain.
3
In a medium skillet, melt the clarified butter over medium heat. Add the sugar and chopped walnuts. Stir continuously until the sugar transforms into a light golden brown, creating a nutty caramel.
4
Carefully pour in the fresh lemon juice, cider vinegar, and apple cider to deglaze the pan, scraping up any bits from the bottom. Stir constantly and let the sauce simmer until it has reduced by half and thickened slightly.
5
To assemble, take four plates and layer three acorn squash rings on each. Gently place four asparagus spears through the center of the squash rings to create a beautiful display. Drizzle the walnut sauce over the top, ensuring each plate is generously adorned.
6
Serve immediately for the best flavor and presentation.
Nutrition Information
10.5g
Fat
12g
Carbs
3g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Savory Asparagus and Acorn Squash Medallions?
It is a visually appealing side dish that combines earthy roasted acorn squash and vibrant asparagus with a rich, buttery walnut sauce.
How many people does this recipe serve?
This recipe is designed to serve four people.
What is the calorie count per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 150 calories.
Is this dish suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes, this recipe is labeled as gluten-free.
Can this recipe be made vegan?
Yes, a vegan option is possible, likely by substituting the clarified butter with a plant-based alternative.
How should I prepare the acorn squash for this recipe?
Cut the acorn squash in half crosswise, remove the seeds, and slice each half into rings approximately 1/4-inch thick.
What preparation is needed for the asparagus?
The thick ends of the asparagus spears should be trimmed off before cooking.
How do I cook the acorn squash rings?
Boil them in salted water until they are just tender, then drain them immediately.
How long should the asparagus be boiled?
Cook them only until they are bright green and tender, then drain immediately.
What ingredients are in the walnut sauce?
The sauce consists of clarified butter, sugar, chopped walnuts, lemon juice, cider vinegar, and apple cider.
How is the walnut sauce prepared?
Melt clarified butter with sugar and walnuts until the sugar is golden brown, then deglaze with lemon juice, vinegar, and cider, simmering until thickened.
What is used to deglaze the pan for the sauce?
A combination of fresh lemon juice, cider vinegar, and apple cider is used to deglaze the skillet.
How do I assemble the medallions for presentation?
Layer three acorn squash rings on a plate and thread four asparagus spears through the center of the rings.
Should this dish be served hot or cold?
For the best flavor and presentation, the recipe recommends serving the dish immediately after assembly.
What is the fat content per serving?
Each serving contains 10.5g of fat.
How much protein is in this dish?
There are 3g of protein in each serving.
What is the carbohydrate count per serving?
Each serving contains 12g of carbohydrates.
How many asparagus spears are required for the full recipe?
The recipe calls for 16 asparagus spears.
How many acorn squashes do I need to buy?
You will need 2 small acorn squashes.
What type of butter is recommended for the sauce?
The recipe specifically calls for clarified butter.
How much sugar is used in the sauce?
The recipe uses 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar.
How much walnut should I prepare?
You will need 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts.
What kind of vinegar is used in this recipe?
The recipe requires 2 tablespoons of cider vinegar.
Is fresh or bottled lemon juice preferred?
The ingredients list specifies 1/4 cup of fresh lemon juice.
How much apple cider is needed?
The sauce requires 6 tablespoons of apple cider.
Is this dish appropriate for holiday meals?
Yes, it is tagged as a holiday recipe and suitable for party food.
Does the squash need to be roasted or boiled?
While the description mentions 'roasted', the specific instructions say to cook the rings in boiling salted water.
How many squash rings are used per plate?
Each of the four plates should have three rings of acorn squash.
How many asparagus spears are served per person?
Each serving includes four asparagus spears threaded through the squash rings.
What is the final step before serving?
The final step is to drizzle the thickened walnut sauce over the assembled squash and asparagus.