2 acorn squash, halved crosswise and seeded
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons melted butter
2/3 cup chopped pecans
2 tablespoons maple syrup, plus more to drizzle
1/2 teaspoon fresh chopped thyme leaves
4 ounces log goat cheese
Heat oven to 375 degrees F. Sprinkle inside of squash halves with salt and brush with melted butter. Turn upside down on baking sheet and bake 30 minutes.
Stir together pecans, maple syrup and thyme. Turn squash upright on baking sheet. Reserving about 3 tablespoons pecan mixture, fill hollow of each squash with remaining pecan mixture. Slice goat cheese crosswise into four equal rounds. Place a round of cheese in hollow of each squash and sprinkle with reserved pecan mixture.
Bake 10 minutes more. Drizzle with more syrup as desired and serve.
Recipe Source: Georgia Pecan Commission
lizziew
Roast the seeds from the acorn squash for a crunchy snack or garnish.
Brushing the squash with a mixture of butter and maple syrup can add more flavor.
For extra sweet flavor, sprinkle brown sugar on the squash before baking.
Adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the pecan mixture can add to the fall flavors.
Make sure the squash halves are of similar size and thickness so they cook evenly.
Let the squash cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the filling to set.
Try adding dried cranberries or chopped apples to the pecan mixture.
If you prefer a crunchier topping, briefly toast the pecans in a skillet before adding them to the mixture.
Try drizzling balsamic glaze over the finished dish for a tangy contrast to the sweetness.
Yes, butternut or kabocha squash can be used as substitutes, though cooking times may vary.
Walnuts or almonds are good alternatives to pecans.
Honey or agave syrup can be used as substitutes for maple syrup.
Yes, you can omit thyme or replace it with rosemary or sage for a slightly different flavor.
Dried thyme can be used; use 1/8 teaspoon as it's more concentrated.
Goat cheese adds a sepcific flavor, but you can substitute it with feta or cream cheese.
Yes, use vegan butter and omit the goat cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative.
It can be served as a side dish or a vegetarian main course.
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven or microwave.
It's best enjoyed fresh, as freezing may alter the texture of the squash and cheese.
Pumpkins aren't just for pies or Halloween decorations. These large, orange gourds - while naturally sweet - also work well in savory dishes. They pair well with poultry and pork (and especially bacon) and their creamy-when-cooked texture blends easily into soups.
Delicious recipes for red velvet cakes, cupcakes, and cheesecakes.
The name, vodka, comes from the Russian phrase zhiznennaia voda, or "water of life". It can be made from everything from potatoes to beets. It's considered to be fairly flavorless which makes it a great liquor for mixed drinks.
reviews & comments
October 27, 2009
This was absolutely delicious and actually really easy. We ended up substituting dried thyme and cashews to no ill effect. Excellent!