Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 acorn squash, halved and seeded
- 1 apple, diced
- 2 tablespoons diced celery
- 2 tablespoons water
- 2 teaspoons minced onion
- 2 teaspoons butter, cubed
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup
- 1 pinch ground cinnamon, or to taste
What Makes This Dish So Tasty
This dish combines the natural sweetness of acorn squash with a warm, spiced apple filling. It’s a comforting and colorful meal that feels both hearty and healthy. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy seasonal produce in a creative way.
Tips From The Kitchen
- Roast the squash until it is tender but still holds its shape to avoid mushy texture.
- Use a mix of tart and sweet apples for a balanced flavor in the stuffing.
- Toast nuts or spices before adding them to the filling to bring out their aroma.
- Use a mix of tart and sweet apples for a balanced flavor in the stuffing.
- Toast nuts or spices before adding them to the filling to bring out their aroma.
Step 1
Warm your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly brush a baking sheet with some olive oil to keep the squash from sticking. Cut the acorn squash in half and place them cut-side down on the baking sheet.
Step 2
In a small baking dish, mix together the apple, celery, water, onion, and butter. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to keep everything moist while it cooks. Pop both the squash and the apple mixture into the oven and let them bake for about 45 minutes, or until everything is tender.
Step 3
Once they’re done, scoop the apple filling into the squash halves. Finish by drizzling a little maple syrup over the top and sprinkling with cinnamon for a cozy touch. Enjoy!
How To Present This Dish
Serve this dish as a main course for a vegetarian meal or as a side alongside roasted meats. It pairs well with a crisp green salad or steamed greens to add freshness and contrast.
Food Storage Guide
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven to keep the squash from becoming too soft. The stuffing can also be frozen separately for longer storage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of squash for this recipe?
Yes, but acorn squash works best because of its shape and sweetness. Other winter squashes like delicata or kabocha can also work.
How do I know when the squash is fully cooked?
The squash is done when it’s tender and easily pierced with a fork, usually after about 45 minutes at 400°F (200°C).
Can I prepare the apple stuffing ahead of time?
Yes, you can mix the apple stuffing ingredients ahead and store them in the fridge until ready to bake.
Is it necessary to cover the apple mixture with foil?
Covering helps keep the mixture moist while baking, but if you prefer a slightly caramelized texture, you can leave it uncovered.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, substitute butter with a plant-based alternative and use maple syrup as is.
What can I serve this dish with?
It pairs well with roasted meats, grains like quinoa or rice, or a fresh green salad.
Can I add nuts or dried fruit to the stuffing?
Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or dried cranberries would add nice texture and flavor.
How should leftovers be stored?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat before serving.
