Pecan Squash
A sweet and nutty roasted acorn squash dish featuring pecans, brown sugar, and a hint of nutmeg, perfect for comforting fall or holiday meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pierce the acorn squash in several places to allow steam to escape.
- Place the squash in the microwave oven and microwave on High for 6 minutes.
- Cut the squash crosswise into halves and remove the seeds.
- Arrange the halves, cut side down, on a microwavable serving plate.
- Cover tightly and microwave for 7 to 9 minutes or until tender.
- Remove stems and cut a thin slice from the pointed ends to prevent tipping.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider toasting the pecans before adding them to the mix. If you don't have brown Sugar Twin, you can substitute with regular brown sugar, adjusting the quantity to taste. You can also experiment by adding a pinch of cinnamon along with the nutmeg for added warmth. Ensure the squash is fully tender by testing with a fork before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the pecan squash warm as a delightful side dish alongside turkey cutlets or as a unique vegetarian main. It pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables. For a complete meal, consider serving it with Mamaw's Soup (Healthy And Kids Love It!) for a comforting and balanced plate.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover pecan squash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the squash in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes for a crispier texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pecan Squash contains roughly 1453 calories, with 16g protein, 85g carbohydrates, and 125g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (119% of the Daily Value), iron (34% of the Daily Value), and protein (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. It also contributes 33g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of squash for this recipe?
Yes, you can use butternut or spaghetti squash as alternatives, but cooking times may vary. Adjust the microwave duration accordingly, checking for tenderness to ensure all squash varieties are cooked properly.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! You can replace the diet margarine with coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute. Additionally, use maple syrup or agave nectar instead of brown Sugar Twin for a naturally sweet flavor.
What can I do with the seeds from the acorn squash?
You can roast the seeds for a crunchy snack! Simply rinse and dry the seeds, toss them with a bit of oil and seasoning, and roast at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).