I love autumn, and nothing says “fall” to me quite like the taste of seasonal squashes. I get so excited when I see them appear at the farmer’s market. Today, I’m sharing one of my favorite ways to enjoy this fall favorite: roasted acorn squash rings! This recipe is not only simple and delicious, but it’s also a nutritious side dish perfect for busy families like mine. Ready in about 30 minutes, these roasted acorn squash rings are sure to become a new staple at your dinner table.
Table of contents
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love These Roasted Acorn Squash Rings
This recipe stands out for a few reasons.
- It’s super quick to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
- The flavorful seasoning blend complements the natural sweetness of the squash.
- The ring shape is kid-friendly and fun to eat.
- Cleanup is a breeze with just one baking sheet.
Selecting the Perfect Acorn Squash
Choosing the right acorn squash is key to a delicious dish. Look for squash that are firm to the touch; this indicates that they are ripe and ready to eat. The skin should have a deep, even color, typically a dark green with patches of orange where it has been resting on the ground. Avoid squash with soft spots, blemishes, or cracks in the skin, as these can be signs of damage or spoilage.
Safety First: How to Cut Acorn Squash
Acorn squash can be tough to cut, so safety is important. Start by using a sharp, sturdy knife. Place the squash on a stable cutting board and make sure your hands are dry to prevent slipping. Cut a thin slice off the bottom of the squash to create a flat, stable base. Then, carefully slice the squash in half from top to bottom. Use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and stringy fibers from the center.
Roasted Acorn Squash Rings Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious roasted acorn squash rings:
- 2 acorn squash (small to medium sized)
- ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
How to Make Roasted Acorn Squash Rings
Follow these simple steps to create the perfect roasted acorn squash rings:
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Slice the top and bottom of the squash, then place it on a flat end and slice it in half. Scoop out the seeds with a spoon, then slice each half into slices about 1-inch thick.
- Add the squash to a large mixing bowl along with the oil, garlic, salt, basil, thyme, and oregano. Use your hand to toss the ingredients together, until well mixed.
- Place the squash slices on a parchment-lined baking tray. If there’s extra herb mixture in the bowl, just press that onto the top side of the slices. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until soft and lightly golden on top.
- Transfer the roasted acorn squash to a serving platter and enjoy!
Tips for Perfectly Roasted Acorn Squash Rings
For perfectly caramelized squash, make sure the slices are evenly spaced on the baking sheet. This allows for proper air circulation, ensuring they roast instead of steam. To adapt the recipe for a lower-sodium diet, reduce the amount of salt or use a salt substitute. For a vegan version, simply ensure your olive oil is plant-based. If you want to make the acorn squash sweeter, consider adding a drizzle of maple syrup or honey before roasting.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is overcrowding the baking sheet, which can lead to mushy squash. Make sure the slices are spaced out. Another mistake is not roasting the squash long enough; it should be soft and easily pierced with a fork. Uneven seasoning can also be an issue, so be sure to toss the squash thoroughly with the oil and spices.
Recipe Variations
Here are a few different flavor combinations to try with your roasted acorn squash rings:
| Flavor Profile | Seasonings |
|---|---|
| Savory | Rosemary, Sage, Garlic |
| Spicy | Chili Flakes, Paprika, Cumin |
| Sweet | Cinnamon, Brown Sugar, Nutmeg |
Roasting Options: Oven, Air Fryer, and Grill
Oven: Follow the recipe instructions for baking at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes. For another quick side, try our quick and easy roasted asparagus.
Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the seasoned squash rings in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until tender and lightly golden.
Grill: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Place the seasoned squash rings on a grill grate or in a grill basket. Grill for about 10-15 minutes, flipping occasionally, until tender and slightly charred.
Serving Suggestions
Roasted acorn squash rings are delicious as a simple side dish, but they can also be used in other creative ways. Add them to salads for a burst of flavor and color, or try them alongside a quick and easy apple walnut salad. Use them as a base for grain bowls, topping them with quinoa, chickpeas, and a tahini dressing. They also make a healthy and satisfying snack on their own!
Nutritional Benefits of Acorn Squash
Acorn squash isn’t just delicious; it’s packed with nutrients too. It’s a great source of fiber, which aids in digestion and helps keep you feeling full. It’s also rich in vitamins A and C, which support your immune system and promote healthy skin. As someone who cares deeply about nourishing my family, I love that acorn squash is a simple way to add more goodness to our plates.
Don’t Throw Those Seeds Away!
Before you toss the seeds, consider roasting them for a crunchy and nutritious snack. Simply rinse the seeds, toss them with a little oil and salt, and bake them at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Storage Tips
Leftover roasted acorn squash rings can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven, air fryer, or microwave until heated through. They’re just as delicious the next day!
Quick & Easy Roasted Acorn Squash Rings Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Slice the top and bottom of the squash, then place it on a flat end and slice it in half. Scoop out the seeds with a spoon, then slice each half into slices about 1-inch thick.
- Add the squash to a large mixing bowl along with the oil, garlic, salt, basil, thyme, and oregano. Use your hand to toss the ingredients together, until well mixed.
- Place the squash slices on a parchment-lined baking tray. If there’s extra herb mixture in the bowl, just press that onto the top side of the slices. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until soft and lightly golden on top.
- Transfer the roasted acorn squash to a serving platter and enjoy!
Notes
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best seasonings for roasted acorn squash?
The best seasonings depend on your personal preferences. Savory herbs like rosemary and thyme, spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, or a simple blend of garlic powder and salt all work wonderfully.
How do you know when acorn squash is ripe/ready to cook?
A ripe acorn squash will feel heavy for its size and have a firm, hard rind. The skin should be dull, not shiny, and have a deep color.
Can you roast acorn squash with other vegetables? What are some good pairings?
Yes, you can roast acorn squash with other vegetables. Good pairings include Brussels sprouts, carrots, onions, and bell peppers. For more ideas on how to combine seasonal produce, check out our amazing easy roasted root vegetables.
Can I use honey instead of maple syrup?
Yes, honey can be used instead of maple syrup for a touch of sweetness.
How do you make acorn squash sweeter?
To make acorn squash sweeter, try drizzling it with maple syrup or honey before roasting, or sprinkle it with brown sugar and cinnamon. Roasting at a higher temperature can also help to caramelize the sugars.
Is acorn squash keto-friendly?
Acorn squash is not particularly keto-friendly due to its carbohydrate content. A cup of cooked acorn squash contains about 30 grams of carbohydrates, so it should be consumed in moderation on a keto diet.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: Approximately 200
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Protein: 3g
Conclusion
I hope you enjoy this simple and delicious recipe for roasted acorn squash rings as much as I do. It’s a wonderful way to bring the flavors of autumn to your table, and it’s so easy to make, even on busy weeknights. Now, I’d love to hear from you! Have you tried this recipe? What are your favorite ways to season acorn squash? Share your thoughts and questions in the comments below, and don’t forget to share your creations with me on social media. Happy cooking!
