Savory Acorn Squash with Whipped Burrata & Chili-Honey Pistachios is a delightful dish that combines savory and sweet flavors with a creamy texture. This recipe is simple enough for any home cook, making it a perfect addition to busy weeknight dinners or festive gatherings. Its vibrant presentation and delicious taste will surely impress your family and friends.
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 290
Protein: 7g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fat: 22g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 300mg
Why Make Savory Acorn Squash with Whipped Burrata & Chili-Honey Pistachios
This dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Acorn squash is a rich source of vitamins A and C, while burrata cheese adds a creamy element that’s hard to resist. The combination of chili and honey brings a lovely balance of heat and sweetness, complemented by the crunch of pistachios. This recipe is versatile too; whether you want it as a warm appetizer, a side dish, or even a vegetarian main course, it fits the bill perfectly.
How to Make Savory Acorn Squash with Whipped Burrata & Chili-Honey Pistachios Step by Step
Ingredients
2 small acorn squash, halved and seeds removed
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp sea salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp maple syrup
1 cup burrata cheese
2 tbsp heavy cream
1 tbsp honey
1/2 tsp red chili flakes
1/4 cup roasted pistachios, chopped
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
Fresh thyme or microgreens for garnish
Directions
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Brush acorn squash halves with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and drizzle with maple syrup. Roast cut-side down for 35–40 minutes until tender and caramelized. Meanwhile, whisk honey and chili flakes together in a small bowl, then toss in chopped pistachios until evenly coated. In another bowl, blend burrata with heavy cream and lemon juice until smooth. To serve, spoon whipped burrata into each roasted squash half, top with chili-honey pistachios, and garnish with thyme or microgreens. Serve warm as an appetizer or side dish.
How to Serve Savory Acorn Squash with Whipped Burrata & Chili-Honey Pistachios
This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp arugula salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette. You can also serve it alongside roasted root vegetables or a hearty grain like quinoa for a complete meal. For an added touch of flavor, a balsamic reduction drizzled on the plate complements the squash wonderfully.
How to Store Savory Acorn Squash with Whipped Burrata & Chili-Honey Pistachios
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place the squash in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through. Freezing is not recommended for this dish, as the texture of the whipped burrata may change once thawed.
Expert Tips for Cooking Savory Acorn Squash with Whipped Burrata & Chili-Honey Pistachios
- Select acorn squash that feel heavy for their size; this indicates they are fresh and full of flavor.
- Adjust the amount of chili flakes to suit your spice preference; more for heat, less for a milder flavor.
- Allow the burrata to come to room temperature before blending for a smoother consistency.
- For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like rosemary or sage to the squash before roasting.
- Make sure to check the squash for doneness by piercing it with a fork; it should be tender but not mushy.
Delicious Variations of Savory Acorn Squash with Whipped Burrata & Chili-Honey Pistachios
For a spicy twist, add jalapeños to the honey-chili mixture. To incorporate more citrus, mix orange zest into the burrata. If you’re looking for a vegetarian protein option, sprinkle some feta cheese on top instead of burrata for a tangy flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions about Savory Acorn Squash with Whipped Burrata & Chili-Honey Pistachios
Can I use other types of squash for this recipe? Yes, other squashes like butternut or spaghetti squash can be substituted, but adjust cooking times accordingly.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep? Absolutely, it can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge for easy reheating.
What can I use instead of burrata? If burrata is unavailable, creamy ricotta cheese or goat cheese can be excellent alternatives.
Would this recipe work for a holiday gathering? This dish is not only delicious but also festive and visually appealing, making it a perfect choice for holiday meals.
Conclusion
Savory Acorn Squash with Whipped Burrata & Chili-Honey Pistachios is a dish that’s both flavorful and versatile. Its creamy texture, crunchy toppings, and balancing flavors make it a wonderful choice for any occasion. Give it a try, and you won’t be disappointed!
Savory Acorn Squash with Whipped Burrata & Chili-Honey Pistachios
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 small small acorn squash, halved and seeds removed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 cup burrata cheese
- 2 tbsp heavy cream
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1/2 tsp red chili flakes
- 1/4 cup roasted pistachios, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- Fresh thyme or microgreens for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Brush acorn squash halves with olive oil, then season with salt and pepper, and drizzle with maple syrup.
- Roast cut-side down for 35–40 minutes until tender and caramelized.
Making the Toppings
- In a small bowl, whisk together honey and chili flakes, then toss in chopped pistachios until evenly coated.
- In another bowl, blend burrata with heavy cream and lemon juice until smooth.
Serving
- Spoon whipped burrata into each roasted squash half.
- Top with chili-honey pistachios and garnish with thyme or microgreens.
- Serve warm as an appetizer or side dish.
