Description
This Honey-Glazed Acorn Squash with Creamy Goat Cheese and Cranberry Drizzle is a stunning side dish that tastes as beautiful as it looks. The natural sweetness of roasted acorn squash pairs perfectly with tangy goat cheese and a tart cranberry drizzle, creating a balanced blend of flavors and textures that’s ideal for holiday tables or elegant weeknight meals.
Ingredients
Scale
For the roasted squash
- 2 small acorn squashes (about 1 lb / 450 g each), halved and seeds removed
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) honey
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the creamy goat cheese and cranberry drizzle
- ½ cup (100 g) creamy goat cheese
- ¼ cup (60 ml) cranberry sauce or compote
- Fresh thyme or parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Set to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare squash: Brush cut sides with olive oil and honey, then season with salt and pepper.
- Roast: Arrange squash halves cut-side up and roast for 25–30 minutes, or until tender and caramelized around the edges.
- Assemble: Remove from oven and let cool slightly. Spoon or crumble goat cheese over the warm squash.
- Drizzle and garnish: Top with cranberry sauce or compote, then finish with a sprinkle of fresh thyme or parsley. Serve warm.
Notes
- Roasting tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan even spacing helps the squash caramelize properly.
- Honey substitute: Maple syrup works beautifully for a vegan-friendly option.
- Goat cheese texture: For a softer drizzle, blend goat cheese with a splash of cream or milk until smooth.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish, Holiday Recipe
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American, Seasonal
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 squash half
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: acorn squash recipe, honey roasted squash, goat cheese side dish, holiday vegetable recipe, fall dinner ideas, cranberry goat cheese squash