Description
Savory Parmesan Herb Roasted Acorn Squash marries rustic autumn flavors with elegant seasonings. Mediterranean-inspired herbs and sharp cheese elevate this simple seasonal side dish for discerning palates.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 medium acorn squash, halved, seeded, and sliced into ½-inch wedges (about 4 cups)
- ½ cup (50 grams) Parmesan cheese, grated
- 3 tbsps olive oil
- 2 tbsps parsley, fresh chopped (or 1 tbsp dried parsley)
- 1 tbsp thyme leaves, fresh (or 1 tsp dried thyme)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preparation: Slice acorn squash into uniform wedges, maintaining consistent size for uniform roasting.
- Seasoning Creation: Blend Parmesan, parsley, thyme, garlic powder, paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper into a fragrant herb mixture.
- Oil Infusion: Coat squash wedges thoroughly with olive oil, ensuring complete and even coverage for optimal flavor absorption.
- Seasoning Application: Generously distribute herb and Parmesan mixture over squash, pressing seasoning into each wedge for maximum flavor penetration.
- Roasting Process: Position seasoned wedges on parchment-lined baking sheet with spacing, then roast in preheated 400°F oven for 25-30 minutes, rotating midway to achieve golden caramelization and tender texture.
- Doneness Verification: Test squash with fork – flesh should be soft and edges richly caramelized, indicating perfect roasting.
- Serving Presentation: Transfer roasted wedges to elegant platter, garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan, serving immediately to preserve warmth and aromatic herb qualities.
Notes
- Slice Precisely: Cut acorn squash with a sharp knife, keeping wedges uniformly sized to ensure consistent cooking and attractive presentation.
- Oil Massage Technique: Thoroughly coat squash with olive oil using hands to help seasonings adhere and create a beautifully caramelized exterior.
- Space for Crispness: Leave adequate room between squash wedges on baking sheet to allow hot air circulation, preventing steaming and promoting crispy edges.
- Dietary Flexibility: Swap Parmesan with nutritional yeast for vegan version or use dairy-free cheese alternatives to accommodate different dietary needs.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Appetizer
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 250 mg
- Fat: 13 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 10 mg