Savory Microwave Acorn Squash Rings with Herb Butter
These Savory Microwave Acorn Squash Rings are a delightful and nutritious side dish that showcases the natural sweetness of acorn squash in a quick and easy preparation. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, the rings are brushed with melted herb-infused butter, adding a rich flavor that complements the squash beautifully. With no added sugars, this dish is not only delicious but also health-conscious. Ideal for those following a vegan diet, simply swap traditional butter for your favorite plant-based margarine. Enjoy these rings as a side to your protein of choice, or serve them as a warm appetizer.
4
Servings
60
Calories
4
Ingredients
Ingredients
acorn squash
2 (small, whole)
butter or margarine
4 teaspoons (melted; use vegan margarine if desired)
salt
to taste (none)
pepper
to taste (freshly ground)
Instructions
1
Start by microwaving the whole acorn squash on high (100%) for 2 minutes to soften the skin slightly for easier cutting.
2
Carefully pierce the squash several times with a fork to allow steam to escape during cooking. Continue microwaving on high (100%) for 15 to 18 minutes, turning the squash a quarter turn every 4 minutes, until the squash is soft and fork-tender.
3
Once cooked, remove the squash from the microwave and let it cool slightly. Cut the squash into 1 inch thick rings, ensuring to remove the fibrous strands and seeds from the center of each ring.
4
Arrange the squash rings in a circular pattern on a large microwave-safe plate.
5
In a small microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter or margarine in the microwave for about 20 seconds on high (100%). Brush the melted butter over the tops of the squash rings generously, ensuring even coverage.
6
Cover the plate with waxed paper to help retain moisture, and microwave for an additional 2 to 4 minutes on high (100%), or until the squash is heated through and steaming hot.
Nutrition Information
4g
Fat
7g
Carbs
1g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Microwave Acorn Squash Rings?
It is a nutritious side dish featuring acorn squash rings brushed with herb-infused butter and cooked in the microwave for a quick preparation.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes 4 servings.
How many calories are in one serving?
There are 60 calories per serving.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, simply swap traditional butter for your favorite plant-based margarine.
How much butter or margarine is needed?
The recipe calls for 4 teaspoons of melted butter or margarine.
Why should I microwave the whole squash for 2 minutes first?
Microwaving the whole squash for 2 minutes softens the skin slightly, making it easier to cut.
Do I need to pierce the squash before cooking?
Yes, you should carefully pierce the squash several times with a fork to allow steam to escape.
How long does the whole squash need to microwave for?
The whole squash should be microwaved on high for 15 to 18 minutes.
How often should I turn the squash while it is microwaving?
You should turn the squash a quarter turn every 4 minutes.
How do I know when the squash is finished cooking?
The squash is done when it is soft and fork-tender.
How thick should the squash rings be cut?
The squash should be cut into 1 inch thick rings.
Should I remove the seeds from the acorn squash?
Yes, ensure you remove the fibrous strands and seeds from the center of each ring after cutting.
How should the rings be arranged for the final cooking step?
Arrange the squash rings in a circular pattern on a large microwave-safe plate.
How long do I melt the butter in the microwave?
Melt the butter or margarine in a small microwave-safe bowl for about 20 seconds on high.
What is used to cover the squash rings during the final microwave stage?
Cover the plate with waxed paper to help retain moisture.
How long do the rings need to microwave after being brushed with butter?
Microwave them for an additional 2 to 4 minutes on high until heated through.
What are the nutritional facts for fat content?
Each serving contains 4 grams of fat.
How many carbohydrates are in this dish?
There are 7 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
Is there protein in this recipe?
Yes, there is 1 gram of protein per serving.
What seasonings are used in this recipe?
The recipe uses salt and freshly ground pepper to taste.
Is there any added sugar in this recipe?
No, this dish has no added sugars.
What type of squash is required?
The recipe specifically uses two small, whole acorn squashes.
What is the total number of ingredients?
There are 4 main ingredients: acorn squash, butter or margarine, salt, and pepper.
Can this be served as an appetizer?
Yes, these squash rings can be served as a warm appetizer or a side dish.
Is this recipe suitable for busy weeknights?
Yes, it is designed for quick and easy preparation.
What power level should the microwave be set to?
All microwave steps use the high (100%) power setting.
Does the recipe require peeling the squash?
No, the squash is cooked in its skin and then cut into rings.
Is this recipe categorized under a specific meal type?
It is categorized as a vegetable side dish.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, the recipe allows for the use of butter or margarine.
What texture should the final squash have?
The final squash should be steaming hot and fork-tender.