Vegetable, Winter Squash | Vegan Vegetarian Gluten Free Low Calorie High Fiber

Acorn Squash

Cucurbita pepo Allergen-Free
Acorn Squash

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Cucurbitaceae
  • Primary Cuisine North American
  • Seasonality Fall, Winter
  • Source Cucurbita pepo plant

The Forktionary Angle

"Unlocking the sweet and savory potential of this humble winter staple."

Definition

A small, dark green winter squash with distinctive ridges and a sweet, nutty, slightly fibrous orange-yellow flesh.

Sensory Profile

TasteSweet, Nutty, Earthy, Mild
TextureTender, Slightly fibrous, Creamy (when cooked)
AromaMildly sweet, Earthy
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Common Usage

Roasted, baked, or stuffed for a hearty side or main dish.

Nutritional Fact

Excellent source of Vitamin C, A, and dietary fiber.

Storage Tip

Store whole in a cool, dark place for 1-2 months.

Nutrition Facts

Per 1/2 squash (approx 200g)
Calories40 kcal
Total Fat0.1 g
Saturated Fat0 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Protein1.4 g
Total Carbohydrate10 g
Dietary Fiber1.5 g
Total Sugars4 g
Calcium21 mg
Iron0.6 mg
Potassium367 mg

Chef’s Secret

Roasting acorn squash cut-side up with a knob of butter and maple syrup in the cavity creates a self-basting, naturally sweet and tender side dish.

Substitutions

Best Match

Butternut Squash

1:1

Similar sweet, nutty flavor and creamy texture, slightly easier to peel and cut.

Delicata Squash

1:1

Has an edible skin and very similar sweet, delicate flavor and texture profile.

Kabocha Squash

1:1

Sweet, dense, and slightly drier texture. Good for roasting and soups.

Sweet Potato

1:1

Offers similar sweetness and starchy texture, suitable for many roasted or pureed applications.

Buying Guide

Choose firm, heavy squash for their size, with dull, dark green skin and no soft spots. A small orange patch is normal where it rested.

Flavor Pairings

Brown sugar maple syrup butter cinnamon sage rosemary pecans sausages chicken lentils.

Recipes Using Acorn Squash

Course Low Sodium Low In Something Preparation

Acorn Squash A La Kree

A family heirloom recipe passed down through generations! This Acorn Squash A La Kree is unbelievably sweet and comforting. The melted margarine and brown sugar create a luscious sauce that perfectly complements the tender squash. A quick and easy side dish or light meal, perfect for fall and winter dinners.

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Oven Weeknight Low In Something Southern United States

Acorn Squash And Apples

Indulge in the cozy flavors of fall with this irresistible Acorn Squash & Apple Pie Filling Bake! Sweet and tender acorn squash halves are brimming with a warm, cinnamon-spiced apple pie filling – a delightful twist on a classic dessert. Easy to make and perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or a festive holiday side dish.

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Course Preparation Time To Make Course

Acorn Squash And Sweet Potato Soup Vegetarian

Indulge in this comforting and flavorful vegetarian acorn squash and sweet potato soup! This recipe, adapted from "1000 Vegetarian Recipes from Around the World," boasts a rich, creamy texture and naturally sweet taste. Easily customizable to be vegan by using soy milk instead of cream. Perfect for a cozy autumn evening or any time you crave a delicious and wholesome meal.

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Kosher Squash Vegetables Bisques Cream Soups

Acorn Squash Bisque

Indulge in this luxuriously creamy Acorn Squash Bisque! This comforting autumnal soup is surprisingly easy to make and bursts with the sweet flavor of roasted acorn squash. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a sophisticated fall gathering. Get the recipe now!

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Squash Number Of Servings For 1 Or 2 60 Minutes Or Less

Acorn Squash For 2

Cozy up with this romantic Acorn Squash recipe for two! Choose your favorite topping from three mouthwatering options: maple bacon, browned butter sage, or spicy ginger marmalade. Inspired by a recent butternut squash success with ginger marmalade and chili flakes, this recipe offers a delicious and customizable fall meal. Which topping will you choose?

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Dietary Course Main Ingredient Occasion

Acorn Squash In Foil On The Grill

Elevate your grilling game with this mouthwatering recipe for Grilled Acorn Squash in Foil! Imagine the irresistible aroma of perfectly roasted acorn squash, bursting with flavor, wafting from your grill. This hands-off recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend gatherings. Simply prep the squash, toss it on the grill, and let the smoky goodness work its magic. Get ready for tender, sweet, and savory bites that are guaranteed to impress. Perfect for fall entertaining or a cozy weeknight meal.

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Low Protein 15 Minutes Or Less Preparation For 1 Or 2

Acorn Squash Microwave Baked

Enjoy this incredibly easy and flavorful microwave baked acorn squash recipe! Ready in just 15 minutes, this unique side dish is baked in its own peel for maximum sweetness and convenience. A perfect healthy and delicious addition to any meal!

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Occasion Vegetarian North American Side Dishes

Acorn Squash Roasted With Applesauce

This incredibly simple yet flavorful roasted acorn squash recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! Inspired by renowned chef Michael Smith, this recipe features tender acorn squash perfectly complemented by sweet and tart applesauce. A fantastic autumnal side dish or vegetarian main course, ready in under 70 minutes.

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Pork Sausage Vegetables Course Main Ingredient

Acorn Squash Stuffed With Sausage And Sour Cream

This recipe transforms humble acorn squash into a decadent and satisfying dish! Inherited from my mother-in-law, this recipe features savory sausage, earthy mushrooms, and creamy sour cream, all nestled inside perfectly roasted acorn squash halves. Even acorn squash skeptics will be won over by this flavorful and surprisingly easy recipe.

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Cuisine Dietary Fruit Weeknight

Acorn Squash With Apple Stuffing

Warm up your autumn with this delicious Acorn Squash with Apple Honey Stuffing recipe! A fall classic, this dish features tender acorn squash filled with a sweet and subtly spiced apple mixture. Perfect for Thanksgiving, cozy fall dinners, or any time you crave a comforting and flavorful meal.

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Main Ingredient Occasion Thanksgiving North American

Acorn Squash With Cranberry Stuffing

This autumnal recipe elevates simple acorn squash to a delicious and impressive main course. Sweet and tart cranberry stuffing, bursting with seasonal flavors like apples, pecans, and warming spices, perfectly complements the tender squash. A visually stunning and flavorful dish, perfect for Thanksgiving, fall gatherings, or a cozy weeknight dinner.

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Healthy Vegetables Taste Mood Occasion

Acorn Squash With Sausage

Forget sugary squash recipes! This hearty Acorn Squash with Sausage is a satisfying autumn main course. Imagine tender acorn squash brimming with a flavorful sausage, onion, mushroom, and bell pepper filling. Inspired by Colorado College, this recipe is warm, comforting, and perfect for chilly evenings. Get ready for a delicious and unexpected twist on a classic fall vegetable!

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Low Sodium Side Dishes Vegetables Course

Acorn Squash With Spiced Brazil Nut Filling

Indulge in the autumnal flavors of this delicious Acorn Squash with Spiced Brazil Nut Filling! This recipe, inspired by Southern Living, features a crunchy, nutty filling bursting with warm spices. Trader Joe's and Earth Fare have made finding Brazil nuts easier than ever, allowing you to create this unforgettable side dish or vegetarian main course. Prepare to be amazed by the perfect blend of sweet squash and savory spiced nuts – a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

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Squash Occasion Microwave American

Apple Stuffed Acorn Squash

Delight your taste buds with this autumnal masterpiece! Sweet and tart apples mingle with zesty orange and juicy cranberries inside tender acorn squash. A touch of maple syrup and crunchy pecans create a flavor explosion that's both comforting and sophisticated. This easy recipe is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive holiday side dish.

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30 Minutes Or Less Beginner Cook Easy Number Of Servings

Apple Stuffed Acorn Squash Microwave Style

Cozy up with this incredibly easy and delicious Apple Stuffed Acorn Squash recipe! Ready in just 25 minutes using only 7 ingredients and your microwave, it's the perfect fall and winter comfort food. Sweet, tart, and surprisingly healthy, this low-sodium dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. (Optional celery – we think it's better without!) Feel free to add extra butter and cinnamon for an even more decadent treat.

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Fall Low Cholesterol Low Protein Preparation

Autumn Baked Acorn Squash

Indulge in the cozy flavors of fall with this irresistible Autumn Baked Acorn Squash recipe! This savory-sweet masterpiece features tender acorn squash perfectly complemented by tart cranberries, crunchy pecans, and a touch of cinnamon and brown sugar. A simple yet elegant side dish or light vegetarian meal, perfect for Thanksgiving, fall gatherings, or a weeknight treat. Get ready to savor the delightful autumn flavors!

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Soups Stews Occasion Vegetables Low Calorie

Baked Winter Squash Soup

Warm up on a chilly evening with this comforting Baked Winter Squash Soup! Inspired by a recipe from Jodi Moore of Bellingham, Washington, this creamy soup is perfect for a cozy dinner party or a quiet night in. Imagine the aroma of roasted squash and warming spices filling your kitchen as you savor each delicious spoonful. This recipe features the perfect balance of sweet and savory, creating a truly unforgettable winter treat.

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Main Ingredient Equipment Low Saturated Fat Heirloom Historical

Creamed Brussels Sprouts In Acorn Squash

Delight your Thanksgiving or Christmas guests with this stunning and delicious creamed Brussels sprouts recipe nestled inside roasted acorn squash halves. The creamy sauce perfectly complements the tender sprouts and sweet squash, creating a show-stopping autumnal side dish that's as beautiful as it is tasty! Easy to follow instructions ensure a perfect result every time.

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