What To Know
- Roast a batch on the weekend and enjoy it throughout the week as a side dish or ingredient in salads and soups.
- Roast squash cut-side down on a baking sheet for 30-40 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
- Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply looking for a convenient and delicious side dish, make ahead acorn squash is the perfect solution.
Nothing screams fall like the aromas of roasted squash and spices filling the air. Make ahead acorn squash is the perfect side dish for your busy weeknights or holiday gatherings. With its sweet, nutty flavor and versatile nature, acorn squash can be easily prepared ahead of time and reheated when you’re ready to serve.
Benefits of Make-Ahead Acorn Squash
- Saves time: Prepping and roasting acorn squash can be time-consuming. Make-ahead acorn squash eliminates the last-minute rush by allowing you to prepare it days in advance.
- Stress-free entertaining: When hosting a special occasion, make-ahead acorn squash takes one less task off your plate, allowing you to focus on other aspects of the event.
- Meal planning made easy: Make-ahead acorn squash fits seamlessly into your weekly meal plan. Roast a batch on the weekend and enjoy it throughout the week as a side dish or ingredient in salads and soups.
How to Make Make-Ahead Acorn Squash
Ingredients
- 2 acorn squash
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, or sage)
Instructions
1. Preheat oven: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare squash: Cut squash in half lengthwise and remove seeds. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Roast: Roast squash cut-side down on a baking sheet for 30-40 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
4. Cool: Remove from oven and let cool slightly before handling.
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store roasted acorn squash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Roasted acorn squash can be frozen for up to 2 months. Defrost in the refrigerator overnight or on the counter for several hours before reheating.
Reheating
- Microwave: Place squash cut-side down on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place squash cut-side up on a baking sheet and reheat for 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through.
- Air fryer: Preheat air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place squash cut-side down in the air fryer basket and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through.
Serving Suggestions
- As a side dish: Serve roasted acorn squash as a side dish to roasted chicken, grilled salmon, or pork chops.
- In salads: Add roasted acorn squash to salads for a sweet and savory crunch.
- In soups: Puree roasted acorn squash and add it to soups for a creamy texture and rich flavor.
- As a topping: Top pizzas, pasta dishes, and tacos with roasted acorn squash for a unique and flavorful twist.
Variations
- Spiced acorn squash: Add a blend of spices, such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice, to the squash before roasting for extra flavor.
- Garlic and herb acorn squash: Mix minced garlic and chopped fresh herbs into the olive oil before drizzling over the squash.
- Honey roasted acorn squash: Brush the squash with honey before roasting for a sweet and caramelized exterior.
Final Thoughts: Make-Ahead Acorn Squash for Every Occasion
Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply looking for a convenient and delicious side dish, make ahead acorn squash is the perfect solution. Its versatile nature and ease of preparation make it a must-have in your recipe repertoire. So, next time you need a stress-free and flavorful side dish, reach for the acorn squash and enjoy the convenience of make-ahead goodness.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
Q: How do I choose the best acorn squash for roasting?
A: Look for squash that is heavy for its size and has a smooth, unblemished skin. Avoid squash with soft spots or bruises.
Q: Can I roast acorn squash with other vegetables?
A: Yes, you can roast acorn squash with other vegetables such as carrots, potatoes, and Brussels sprouts. Simply toss the vegetables in olive oil, salt, and pepper and roast until tender.
Q: Is it okay to reheat acorn squash multiple times?
A: Yes, you can reheat acorn squash multiple times, but it’s best to do so within 3 days of roasting. Reheating the squash too many times can dry it out.
