Spiced Acorn Squash with Cranberries Recipe

As the days grow cooler and seasonal decorations fill our homes with warmth, there’s nothing quite like gathering around a table adorned with festive dishes. Spiced Acorn Squash with Cranberries is one of those vibrant, heartwarming recipes that not only looks stunning but also brings the flavors of fall right to your plate. This dish is perfect for those family gatherings, where laughter fills the air and creativity knows no bounds.

Recipe Summary

Ingredients

• 1 acorn squash, halved, seeded, and sliced
• 1 cup fresh cranberries
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: Star anise for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, toss the acorn squash slices with the olive oil, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Arrange the squash slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
5. After 20 minutes, add the fresh cranberries to the baking sheet, scattering them around the squash slices.
6. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender and the cranberries are burst and caramelized.
7. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with star anise if desired for an extra festive touch.

Helpful Tips

• Variations: Add a sprinkle of brown sugar for extra sweetness or a dash of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick of heat.
• Storage Instructions: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
• Ingredient Substitutions: Substitute honey or agave syrup for the maple syrup. Dried cranberries can be used if fresh cranberries are unavailable.

Pairings

This Spiced Acorn Squash with Cranberries pairs beautifully with a roasted turkey or a glazed ham for a complete holiday meal. For a vegetarian option, serve alongside a hearty quinoa salad or a creamy butternut squash soup. Complement the dish with a glass of spiced apple cider or a warm cup of chai tea for a cozy, festive touch.

This holiday season, let the flavors of Spiced Acorn Squash with Cranberries bring joy and warmth to your family gatherings. Don’t forget to share your delightful creations using #ZynahzRecipes or tag us on Instagram. We love seeing how you bring our recipes to life! Be sure to leave your feedback on our website Zynahz, subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates, and follow us on social media for more culinary inspiration.