This acorn squash recipe is a sweet and savory holiday side dish featuring roasted acorn squash. Toss with herbs and spices, then roast until tender. Finish the dish with pomegranate seeds, feta cheese, and toasted pumpkin seeds. Season with extra virgin olive oil and maple syrup.
Cade says that is the best side dish I’ve ever made. And that is saying something, because we have some great ones here on the blog (I’m thinking of you, homemade focaccia and gruyere sweet potato stacks!)! This acorn squash recipe is both Thanksgiving and Christmas worthy! You’re going to LOVE it!
Recommended Equipment
Before You Begin…
You’ll want to start by toasting the pepitas (pumpkin seeds)! This adds such a delicious nutty flavor and crunchy texture.
Ingredients for Holiday Acorn Squash
Okay, this ingredients list is going to look a bit daunting at first glance, but don’t run away! Many of the ingredients are seasonings that you’ll already have. Here is what you will need:
For the Pepitas
- Pumpkin Seeds: also known as pepitas
- Olive Oil: helps toast the pumpkin seeds
- Seasonings: Salt, Pepper, Smoked Paprika, and Chili Powder
For the Squash
- Acorn Squash: If you’re not a fan of acorn squash, you can use butternut or honeynut.
- Pure Maple Syrup: You want the real deal here, no imitation pancake syrup!
- Orange: We will use the juice and zest for a pop of fresh citrus flavor.
- Butter: helps the acorn roast and get golden and caramelized
- Seasonings: Ground Cinnamon, Fresh Ginger, Smoked Paprika, and Cardamom Powder
- Pomegranate: You can extract the seeds yourself from a pomegranate (see section below) or just buy pomegranate seeds.
- Brown Sugar: adds sweetness and rich flavor
- Extra-Virgin Olive Oil: used to toast and crisp the sage leaves
- Sage Leaves: adds flavor and crunch
- Thyme: used as garnish for the squash and adds fresh herby flavor
- Kosher Salt: adds flavor
- Feta: You can use goat cheese instead or omit the cheese if you want.
The measurements for all the ingredients can be found in the recipe card at the end of this post.
What are Pomegranate Arils?
Pomegranate arils are the clear red seed pod in the pomegranate. They are tart and give you a nice pop of juice and flavor