Acorn squash is a small squash that looks like an acorn- how cute! Acorn squash are most commonly found in dark green variety (you can also find orange and white) with an orange flesh that is nutrient dense. The best time to buy acorn squash is at winter markets as it is in season in North America from fall through winter. Acorn squash, which is typically considered a winter squash, is actually part of the summer squash family and is related to zucchini. Acorn squash pairs well flavors such as apples, sausage, bacon, garlic, sage and nutmeg.
Nutrient information:
Acorn squash contains vitamin A, niacin, folate, thiamine, vitamin B-6 and vitamin C. To keep the high amounts of vitamin C, steaming or baking the squash is more efficient instead of boiling. Each serving of acorn squash contains high amounts of potassium and magnesium along with small amounts of iron, calcium and phosphorus. Winter squash is one of the best sources of the antioxidants, which can lower risk of cancer, neurological disorders, cardiovascular disease and diabetes. In order to get the most nutrients out of your acorn squash, it is recommended to eat the vegetable 3-4 days after purchase and cut right before cooking.
Stuffed Acorn Squash
Ingredients:
- 3 small acorn squash, cut in half lengthwise and seeds scooped out
- 1 lb. of ground sausage
- 1 large onion, sliced thin
- 4 tablespoons of butter or olive oil (split)
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 apple, chopped
- 2 cups of spinach, chopped
- Herbs to taste: rosemary and thyme
- Salt and pepper
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees and line baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Bake the squashes face down (seeds removed) for 20-30 minutes.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of oil over low heat and add all onions, stirring every 5 minutes for 25 minutes.
- In a different pan, heat 2 tablespoons of oil on low; add garlic and sausage, cook for 8 minutes or until browned. Add apples and herbs and cook until softened. Add spinach, salt and pepper. Mix in the caramelized onions.
- Stuff the cooked acorn squashes and put in the oven on broil for 5 minutes.
Sources:
HealthyeatingSF gate.com