Sweet and Savory Acorn Squash Rings with Cranberry-Apple Medley
Delight in the harmonious blend of sweet and tangy flavors with these beautifully roasted acorn squash rings, complemented by a vibrant mixture of cranberries and apples. Perfect for autumn gatherings or a festive side dish, this recipe captures the essence of fall with every bite. The combination of buttery squash, tart cranberries, and sweet apples creates a culinary masterpiece that is both visually appealing and incredibly delicious.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
acorn squash
1 (cut into 1/4-inch rings, seeds removed)
butter
1/4 cup (melted)
cranberries
1/2 cup (fresh)
brown sugar
1/4 cup (packed)
apple
1/2 cup (finely chopped)
cornstarch
1 teaspoon (dissolved in water)
water
2 teaspoons (cold)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2
Using a sharp knife, carefully cut the acorn squash into 1/4-inch rings, leaving the peel intact. Remove and discard the seeds with a spoon.
3
Arrange the squash rings in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly brush them with a portion of the melted butter, ensuring both sides are coated.
4
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the remaining melted butter, cranberries, and brown sugar. Microwave on high for 30-45 seconds until the butter is melted and the sugar begins to dissolve.
5
Stir the cranberry mixture well and microwave for an additional 2-3 minutes on high until the cranberries soften and their skins pop, stirring once halfway through.
6
Fold in the finely chopped apple into the cranberry mixture.
7
Spoon the cranberry-apple mixture evenly onto each squash ring.
8
Cover the baking sheet with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the squash is tender.
9
Meanwhile, drain any accumulated juices into a small saucepan. Dissolve the cornstarch in cold water and whisk into the saucepan with the juices.
10
Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring continuously for 30-45 seconds or until it thickens into a sauce.
11
Remove the squash rings from the oven and drizzle the thickened sauce over each ring before serving.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main ingredient of this recipe?
The main ingredient is one acorn squash, cut into rings.
How should I cut the acorn squash?
Using a sharp knife, carefully cut the squash into 1/4-inch rings while leaving the peel intact.
Should I remove the seeds from the acorn squash?
Yes, remove and discard the seeds using a spoon after cutting the squash into rings.
What is the recommended oven temperature?
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
How do I prepare the baking sheet?
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
How much butter is needed for this recipe?
The recipe requires 1/4 cup of melted butter.
How do I prepare the cranberry mixture?
Combine melted butter, cranberries, and brown sugar in a microwave-safe bowl and heat until the sugar dissolves.
How long should I microwave the cranberries?
Microwave for 30-45 seconds initially, then an additional 2-3 minutes until the skins pop.
When do I add the apple?
Fold the finely chopped apple into the cranberry mixture after it has been microwaved.
What kind of sugar is used in this dish?
The recipe calls for 1/4 cup of packed brown sugar.
How much cranberry is used?
Use 1/2 cup of fresh cranberries.
How long does the squash need to bake?
Bake the squash rings for 20-25 minutes in the preheated oven.
Should the squash be covered while baking?
Yes, cover the baking sheet with aluminum foil before putting it in the oven.
How do I know when the squash is finished cooking?
The squash is done when it is tender.
How do I make the glaze or sauce?
Drain the juices from the pan into a saucepan and thicken them with a cornstarch slurry.
What is the cornstarch to water ratio for the sauce?
Use 1 teaspoon of cornstarch dissolved in 2 teaspoons of cold water.
How long do I cook the sauce on the stove?
Heat the mixture for 30-45 seconds, stirring continuously until it thickens.
When should I apply the thickened sauce?
Drizzle the thickened sauce over each squash ring immediately before serving.
Is this recipe considered vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly.
Can I use this as a holiday side dish?
Yes, it is specifically described as a perfect festive side dish for autumn and holiday gatherings.
How many total ingredients are required?
There are 7 primary ingredients: acorn squash, butter, cranberries, brown sugar, apple, cornstarch, and water.
What type of apple should I use?
The recipe suggests using a finely chopped apple; a sweet-tart variety typically works best for fall recipes.
Do I need to peel the squash?
No, the peel is left intact for this recipe.
What is the texture of the dish?
It features buttery, tender squash paired with a soft, tangy fruit medley.
Can I use frozen cranberries?
The recipe specifies fresh cranberries, though frozen may work with adjusted cooking times.
How thick should the squash rings be?
The rings should be approximately 1/4-inch thick.
What is the overall flavor profile?
It is a harmonious blend of sweet and savory with tangy notes from the cranberries.
How do I apply the butter to the squash?
Lightly brush both sides of the squash rings with a portion of the melted butter.
How many servings does this provide?
The recipe is based on one whole acorn squash, typically serving 2 to 4 people as a side dish.
What makes the cranberry skins pop?
Microwaving the mixture on high heat for 2-3 minutes causes the cranberries to soften and their skins to pop.