Before you get started, here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 small acorn squashes (about 1 lb / 450 g each), halved and seeds removed
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) honey
- ½ cup (100 g) creamy goat cheese
- ¼ cup (60 ml) cranberry sauce or compote
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh thyme or parsley, for garnish
Ingredient Tips and Substitutions
- Acorn Squash: You can substitute delicata or butternut squash if acorn isn’t available—just adjust the roasting time accordingly.
- Goat Cheese: If you’re not a fan of goat cheese, try ricotta, feta, or vegan cashew cheese.
- Cranberry Sauce: Use homemade or store-bought. Want more tang? Mix in a splash of orange juice or zest.
- Honey: Maple syrup makes a great vegan-friendly alternative.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). A hot oven helps the squash caramelize beautifully.
2. Prepare the Squash
Halve your acorn squashes and scoop out the seeds. Brush the cut sides generously with olive oil and honey. Don’t forget to season with salt and freshly ground black pepper—this balances the sweetness and brings out the squash’s earthy flavor.
🔪 Pro Tip: Microwave each squash for 2–3 minutes before cutting to make slicing easier and safer.
3. Roast the Squash
Place the squash halves cut-side up on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Roast for 25–30 minutes, or until the squash is fork-tender and the edges are starting to caramelize.
🕒 The roasting time may vary slightly depending on the size of your squash. Look for a golden-brown hue and tender flesh.
4. Add the Toppings
Remove the squash from the oven and let it cool slightly—just enough so the goat cheese doesn’t melt completely. Spoon a generous dollop of goat cheese into the center of each squash half. Then drizzle with cranberry sauce, allowing the vivid red sauce to cascade naturally.
5. Garnish and Serve
Finish with a sprinkle of fresh thyme or chopped parsley for a burst of color and herbaceous contrast. Serve warm and enjoy the mix of creamy, sweet, tangy, and savory in each bite.
Serving Suggestions
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