Fall brings a cornucopia of flavors and comfort foods, and Honey-Glazed Acorn Squash with Creamy Goat Cheese and Cranberry Drizzle is the perfect example. This dish is incredibly simple to prepare, yet it shines with delicious seasonal flavors that make any meal special. Its versatility allows for personalization, making it a delightful centerpiece for your table whether it’s a busy weeknight or a festive gathering.
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
Total Time: 35–40 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 250
Protein: 6 g
Carbohydrates: 30 g
Fat: 12 g
Fiber: 4 g
Sugar: 10 g
Sodium: 210 mg
Why Make Honey-Glazed Acorn Squash with Creamy Goat Cheese and Cranberry Drizzle
This recipe is not only a vibrant addition to your meals but also brings together nutrition and flavor in a delightful way. Acorn squash is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, while the creamy goat cheese adds a layer of creaminess and protein that balances out the sweetness of the honey. This dish is perfect for any occasion and can be served as a side or a main dish.
How to Make Honey-Glazed Acorn Squash with Creamy Goat Cheese and Cranberry Drizzle Step by Step
Ingredients
1 medium acorn squash, halved, seeded, and sliced into 1⁄2-inch wedges
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp honey
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp salt
3 oz creamy goat cheese
1/4 cup cranberry sauce or cranberry compote
1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
2 tbsp chopped pistachios or walnuts (optional)
Fresh thyme or rosemary leaves, for garnish
Directions
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, honey, cinnamon, and salt. Toss acorn squash slices in the mixture until evenly coated. Arrange slices in a single layer on the baking sheet and roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until tender and caramelized. While the squash roasts, prepare the cranberry drizzle by mixing cranberry sauce with balsamic vinegar. If necessary, warm in a small saucepan. Arrange roasted squash on a serving platter. Dollop with creamy goat cheese and drizzle with the cranberry-balsamic mixture. Sprinkle with chopped pistachios or walnuts, and garnish with fresh thyme for a festive touch. Serve warm.
How to Serve Honey-Glazed Acorn Squash with Creamy Goat Cheese and Cranberry Drizzle
This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or a quinoa side for added texture. You can even serve it beside roasted proteins such as chicken or turkey for a complete meal. For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a citrus-based vinaigrette to your green salad.
How to Store Honey-Glazed Acorn Squash with Creamy Goat Cheese and Cranberry Drizzle
To store leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, place it back in the oven to maintain the texture, or gently microwave it until warmed through. The dish is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be frozen for up to two months — simply let it cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container.
Expert Tips for Cooking Honey-Glazed Acorn Squash with Creamy Goat Cheese and Cranberry Drizzle
- Make sure to cut the acorn squash into uniform wedges for even cooking and caramelization.
- Feel free to adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey based on your preference.
- For added flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the olive oil mixture.
- Toast the nuts before sprinkling them on top to enhance their flavor and crunch.
- Experiment with different herbs, such as sage or oregano, for a unique twist.
Delicious Variations of Honey-Glazed Acorn Squash with Creamy Goat Cheese and Cranberry Drizzle
You can easily turn this dish into a spicy version by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the olive oil mixture. For a herbed option, mix in fresh herbs like thyme or sage with the goat cheese for an aromatic touch. A citrus variation can be made by adding some orange zest to the cranberry-balsamic drizzle, providing a burst of fresh flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions about Honey-Glazed Acorn Squash with Creamy Goat Cheese and Cranberry Drizzle
How long can I store the leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to three days in an airtight container.
Can I substitute other cheeses?
Yes, feta or ricotta can be used as alternatives to goat cheese, giving different flavors and textures.
What can I serve on the side?
This dish pairs well with roasted meats, salads, or grain-based sides like quinoa or farro.
Is it suitable for vegetarians?
Absolutely! This dish is completely vegetarian and can be enjoyed by everyone.
Conclusion
Honey-Glazed Acorn Squash with Creamy Goat Cheese and Cranberry Drizzle is not just a recipe; it’s a flavor experience that everyone will enjoy. The ease of preparation and the delightful flavor combination make it suitable for any occasion. Try it today, and discover how this simple dish can elevate your meals with seasonal goodness!
Honey-Glazed Acorn Squash with Creamy Goat Cheese and Cranberry Drizzle
Ingredients
For the Squash
- 1 medium acorn squash, halved, seeded, and sliced into 1⁄2-inch wedges
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
For the Toppings
- 3 oz creamy goat cheese
- 1/4 cup cranberry sauce or cranberry compote
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 2 tbsp chopped pistachios or walnuts (optional)
- Fresh thyme or rosemary leaves, for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, honey, cinnamon, and salt.
- Toss acorn squash slices in the mixture until evenly coated.
- Arrange slices in a single layer on the baking sheet.
- Roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway, until tender and caramelized.
Cranberry Drizzle
- While the squash roasts, mix cranberry sauce with balsamic vinegar. If necessary, warm in a small saucepan.
Serving
- Arrange roasted squash on a serving platter.
- Dollop with creamy goat cheese and drizzle with the cranberry-balsamic mixture.
- Sprinkle with chopped pistachios or walnuts, and garnish with fresh thyme.
- Serve warm.
