Maple Roasted Goldilocks Acorn Squash

Sweet, tender and beautifully caramelized, roasted Goldilocks acorn squash is one of those simple fall sides that goes with just about anything. A little maple, cinnamon and thyme turns this seasonal favourite into something worth making again and again.

Serves 4

Ingredients

• 2 Goldilocks acorn squash
• 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
• 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
• ½ tsp cinnamon
• ¼ tsp sea salt
• ¼ tsp freshly cracked black pepper
• Chopped pecans, optional
• Fresh thyme, optional

Directions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

  2. Carefully cut each acorn squash in half and scoop out the seeds.

  3. Place the squash halves on a baking sheet. Brush the cut sides with olive oil or melted butter.

  4. Drizzle with maple syrup, then sprinkle with cinnamon, sea salt and freshly cracked pepper.

  5. Place cut side up and roast for 35 to 45 minutes, or until the squash is fork tender and beautifully caramelized around the edges.

  6. If using pecans, sprinkle them over the squash during the last 5 to 10 minutes of roasting so they become lightly toasted.

  7. Remove from the oven and finish with fresh thyme before serving.

Homestead Tip

Goldilocks acorn squash has a naturally sweet, nutty flavour and creamy texture that makes it perfect for roasting. And don’t toss those seeds! Clean them, season with a little olive oil and salt, and roast them for a crunchy fall snack.