Description
Maple pecan goat cheese roasted acorn squash brings sweet and savory harmony to seasonal cooking. Creamy goat cheese, crunchy pecans, and rich maple glaze elevate this simple squash dish into a memorable autumn centerpiece you’ll crave at every gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 2 medium acorn squash, halved and seeds removed
- 4 ounces (113 grams) goat cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup (30 grams) pecans, chopped
Seasoning and Flavor Enhancers:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- Salt to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the oven environment by heating to 400F (200C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper for optimal roasting conditions.
- Slice the acorn squash in half, then massage the cut surfaces with olive oil, ensuring comprehensive coverage and seasoning thoroughly with salt, pepper, and optional cinnamon for enhanced flavor profile.
- Position the squash halves face-down on the prepared baking sheet, allowing them to roast for 40-50 minutes until the interior becomes fork-tender and develops a rich, caramelized texture.
- During roasting, independently prepare the accompaniments by finely chopping pecans and gently softening goat cheese in a separate mixing bowl.
- After removing roasted squash from the oven, carefully rotate the halves to expose the interior cavity and allow slight cooling for easier handling.
- Distribute softened goat cheese evenly into the center of each squash half, creating a creamy foundation for the subsequent toppings.
- Generously scatter chopped pecans across the goat cheese, then elegantly drizzle maple syrup to create a glistening, sweet-savory coating.
- Optional secondary roasting for 5-10 minutes will help melt the goat cheese and intensify the flavor integration.
- Finish by garnishing with freshly ground black pepper, which adds a subtle warmth and complexity to the dish before serving while still warm.
Notes
- Select firm, vibrant acorn squash with deep green color and no soft spots for best roasting results.
- Pat squash dry before rubbing with oil to ensure optimal caramelization and crispy exterior.
- Adjust roasting time based on squash size, checking tenderness with fork after 35 minutes.
- Warm goat cheese slightly to enhance its creamy texture and make spreading easier.
- Toast pecans beforehand to intensify their nutty flavor and add extra crunch.
- Experiment with different cheese varieties like feta or blue cheese for unique flavor profiles.
- Drizzle maple syrup sparingly to prevent overwhelming sweetness and maintain balanced taste.
- Consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for additional aromatic complexity.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45-60 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 335 kcal
- Sugar: 12 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 27 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 16 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg