Garlic Herb Roasted Acorn Squash Wedges

$- 1 medium acorn squash - 3 tablespoons olive oil - 4 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon dried thyme - 1 teaspoon dried rosemary - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - Salt and pepper to taste - 2 tablespoons maple syrup (optional) - Fresh parsley for garnish This recipe is simple yet full of flavor. The acorn squash is the star. I love how its sweet taste pairs with herbs and garlic. The olive oil helps everything roast nicely. When you mix the spices, the garlic and herbs create a fragrant blend. For the maple syrup, it adds a touch of sweetness. You can skip it if you prefer a savory dish. Fresh parsley at the end gives a pop of color. It also adds a fresh taste. Gather these ingredients before you start. You will enjoy how they come together to make Garlic Herb Roasted Acorn Squash Wedges. - Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). - Slice the acorn squash in half lengthwise. - Scoop out the seeds and pulp with a spoon. - Cut each half into wedges. Make sure the wedges are even for good cooking. - In a large bowl, combine 3 tablespoons of olive oil and 4 minced garlic cloves. - Add 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary, and 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika. - Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you want sweetness, add 2 tablespoons of maple syrup. - Mix all the ingredients well to make a flavorful oil blend. - Toss the acorn squash wedges in the bowl until each piece is coated with the mixture. - Arrange the wedges on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Keep them in a single layer. - Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. - Flip the wedges halfway through cooking for even browning. - They are done when tender and caramelized at the edges. Enjoy the warm, tasty aroma that fills your kitchen as they roast! To make the best garlic herb roasted acorn squash, start with the seasoning. Taste your mix before tossing in the squash. Add more salt or pepper if needed. If you like a sweet touch, try adding maple syrup. It makes the dish richer. The balance of savory and sweet will impress everyone at your table. Oven types can change cooking times. If you use a convection oven, your squash may cook faster. Keep an eye on it! I check doneness by poking a wedge with a fork. If it goes in easily, your squash is ready. If not, let it roast a bit longer. How you serve your squash matters. Arrange the roasted wedges on a bright platter. Drizzle with any leftover olive oil for shine. Fresh parsley on top adds color and freshness. For a fun twist, serve with a yogurt dip or sprinkle some feta cheese. These small touches can elevate your dish and wow your guests! {{image_2}} You can change the flavor of your acorn squash wedges easily. Try adding herbs like sage or oregano for a different taste. These herbs pair well with the sweet squash and create a lovely aroma. You can also use spice blends for a kick. Chili powder adds heat, while cumin gives a warm, earthy note. Mix these spices into the olive oil with garlic for a unique flavor. Want to make this recipe vegan? It’s simple! The ingredients are already vegan-friendly. Just skip the optional maple syrup if you prefer less sweetness. If you need a gluten-free option, this dish is great as is. All the ingredients are gluten-free, so you can enjoy this recipe without worry. These garlic herb roasted acorn squash wedges taste amazing with various sides. They pair nicely with a fresh salad or roasted veggies. You could also serve them with a grain like quinoa or rice for a hearty meal. For dipping, consider a yogurt sauce or a drizzle of tahini. A sprinkle of feta cheese adds creaminess and a nice contrast to the sweet squash. Enjoy experimenting with these pairings! To keep your garlic herb roasted acorn squash fresh, proper storage is key. - Refrigerating Leftovers: Place any leftover wedges in an airtight container. They will stay good for up to 3 days in the fridge. Make sure they cool down before sealing. This helps avoid sogginess. - Freezing Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the wedges. Lay them out on a baking sheet first. Freeze them for about an hour until solid. After that, transfer them to a freezer bag or container. They will last up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight. To enjoy your garlic herb roasted acorn squash again, reheating is simple. - Optimal Texture and Flavor: The best way to reheat is in the oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the wedges on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes. This keeps the squash crispy. - Microwave vs. Oven: You can use the microwave if you're short on time. Place the wedges on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds until warm. However, the oven gives better texture, so use it when you can. How to know if acorn squash is ripe? You can tell if acorn squash is ripe by looking for a deep green color. The skin should be hard and free of blemishes. A ripe squash feels heavy for its size. You can also tap it; a hollow sound means it's ready to use. Can I use other types of squash for this recipe? Yes, you can use butternut or pumpkin squash. Each type gives a unique taste. The cooking time may change slightly based on the squash you choose. Just make sure the squash is firm and fresh. Are roasted acorn squash wedges healthy? Yes, roasted acorn squash wedges are very healthy. They are low in calories and high in fiber. This dish is a great source of vitamins A and C. Plus, the healthy fats from olive oil support heart health. What are the nutritional benefits of acorn squash? Acorn squash is rich in nutrients. It contains antioxidants that help protect your body. The fiber in acorn squash aids digestion. It also has potassium, which helps maintain healthy blood pressure levels. How can I make this recipe spicier? To add spice, you can use cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes. Mix them with the olive oil and spices before tossing the squash. Start with a small amount, then taste and adjust as you like. Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prep the squash ahead of time. Cut and season the wedges, then store them in the fridge. Just roast them right before you want to serve. This keeps them fresh and tasty. Roasted acorn squash is simple yet flavorful. We covered ingredients, preparation, and cooking steps. Remember to adjust seasoning to your taste. You can experiment with herbs for unique flavors. Store any leftovers properly, and reheat them for best results. This dish not only tastes great but also offers health benefits. Enjoy cooking and sharing this delightful meal with others!$

Garlic Herb Roasted Acorn Squash Wedges

Discover the deliciousness of Garlic Herb Roasted Acorn Squash Wedges! This easy recipe transforms simple ingredients into a flavorful side dish that's perfect for any occasion. With a delightful blend of garlic, herbs, and a hint of sweetness, these wedges are sure to impress. Dive into the full recipe for step-by-step instructions and tips. Don't miss out—click through to elevate your next meal! #AcornSquash #HealthyRecipes #FallFlavors #RoastedVegetables

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Ingredients

1 medium acorn squash

3 tablespoons olive oil

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon dried rosemary

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

2 tablespoons maple syrup (optional for sweetness)

Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

Carefully slice the acorn squash in half lengthwise, scoop out the seeds and pulp, then cut each half into wedges.

In a large bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, dried thyme, dried rosemary, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. If you prefer a touch of sweetness, add the maple syrup to the mixture.

Toss the acorn squash wedges in the bowl until each piece is evenly coated with the garlic herb mixture.

Place the coated wedges on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure they are in a single layer for even roasting.

Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping the wedges halfway through, until they are tender and caramelized at the edges.

Once cooked, remove the wedges from the oven and let them cool slightly.

Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 mins | 40 mins | 4 servings

- Presentation Tips: Arrange the roasted wedges on a platter, drizzle with any remaining olive oil, and sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a vibrant look. Consider serving with a yogurt dip or a sprinkle of feta cheese for extra flavor.