Mini Roasted Acorn Squash Slices with Maple Pecans
April 21, 2022
Serves 4 – 6
There are many “make-ahead” elements to this dish. The maple pecans can be made up to two days in advance and stored in an airtight container at room temperature. The squash can be sliced up to one day in advance. Store it in an airtight container or zip-top bag in the refrigerator. Brush the squash slices with the oil mixture just before baking. Once cooked, the roasted squash can sit at room temperature, covered, for up to 2 hours. Make sure your family or guests know that the outside peels of the squash slices are not meant to be eaten. Simply cut away the yellow flesh as you eat it, then discard the peels.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons maple syrup, divided
- 1 medium acorn squash
- 1/2 cup finely chopped pecans
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Directions: Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminium foil and lightly spray with non-stick cooking spray. In a small bowl, stir together the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of the maple syrup. Halve, seed, and slice the squash into 1” thick slices. Arrange the slices in a single layer on the baking sheet. Brush the slices with half of the olive oil and maple syrup mixture. Place the squash in the oven and roast for 5 to 7 minutes.
Remove the tray from the oven and, using tongs, flip over each slice. Brush with the remaining olive oil and maple syrup. Return the baking sheets to the oven and continue roasting until the squash slices are fork-tender, about 15-20 additional minutes. While the squash is roasting add the pecan pieces to a large, cold skillet. Place the pan over medium-high heat and toast the pecans until they are just fragrant and starting to brown. Add the last 2 tablespoons of maple syrup to the pan and constantly stir until the pecans are no longer steaming. Scrape the pecans onto a piece of parchment paper and allow to cool. When the pecans are cool enough to handle, break into small pieces. When the squash has finished roasting remove from the oven and garnish with the pecan pieces.
