Ten Minute Pecan Squash
A quick and flavorful squash side dish featuring sweet pecans and a hint of tang from instant breakfast drink, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the frozen cooked squash, butter, Tang, salt, and pepper in a saucepan.
- Cook according to the package directions.
- Stir in the chopped pecans before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon to the squash mixture. If you don't have Tang, try substituting with a bit of orange juice concentrate or another instant breakfast drink. Chopped walnuts can also be used in place of pecans for a different nutty taste. Serve this dish alongside a simple green salad or pair it with a slice of Deep Dish Butter Cake for a delightful contrast.
Serving Suggestions
This Ten Minute Pecan Squash makes a great side dish for roasted chicken or grilled fish. It also pairs beautifully with a slice of Warm Brie With Apples And Almonds for a delicious contrast of flavors. For a vegetarian meal, serve it alongside quinoa or a hearty grain salad. Garnish with additional chopped pecans for a nice presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the squash in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave it in a microwave-safe dish, covered, for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ten Minute Pecan Squash contains roughly 95 calories, with 1g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (58% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1752mg per serving (76% of the Daily Value).
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 fresh squash instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh squash instead of frozen. Simply cook and mash the squash until tender before combining it with the other ingredients. This might take a little longer than ten minutes, but the fresh taste is worth it.
Is this recipe suitable for a vegan diet?
To make this recipe vegan, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative, such as vegan margarine or coconut oil. Ensure that the instant breakfast drink is vegan-friendly as well, and you’ll have a delicious vegan side dish.
Can I make this ahead of time?
While the dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the squash mixture ahead of time. Simply combine the ingredients and refrigerate. When ready to serve, reheat and stir in the pecans. This will save you time on busy nights.
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).