Recipe: Winter Roasted Acorn Squash
Acorn squash isn’t just for fall décor—it’s a cold-weather MVP in my kitchen.
I was recently at ETC and spotted a basket of acorn squash, which felt like the perfect reminder not to overlook it when you see it at the store. This is one of those ingredients that’s simple, affordable, and deeply seasonal—yet when treated thoughtfully, it turns into something that feels elegant and comforting all at once.
This roasted acorn squash is one of my go-to winter dishes. It’s cozy without being heavy, indulgent without being complicated, and works beautifully as a main or alongside other dishes. The combination of creamy mascarpone, crunchy walnuts, a touch of honey, and fig balsamic glaze creates layers of flavor that feel restaurant-worthy but effortless at home.
Ingredients (Serves 2–4)
1 large acorn squash, halved and seeds removed
2 tablespoons olive oil
¾ teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
½ cup mascarpone cheese
¼ cup walnuts, roughly chopped and lightly toasted
1–2 tablespoons honey (to taste)
1–2 tablespoons fig balsamic glaze
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 400°F. Slice the acorn squash in half and score the flesh in a crosshatch pattern. Place cut-side up on a baking sheet, brush generously with olive oil, and season evenly with salt and pepper.
Roast for 35–45 minutes, until the squash is fork-tender and lightly caramelized around the edges. Remove from the oven and while still warm, spoon mascarpone cheese into the grooves so it gently melts into the squash.
Finish with the toasted walnuts, drizzle with honey, and finish with fig balsamic glaze. Serve warm.
Chef’s Notes
This dish is endlessly adaptable. Add fresh thyme or rosemary before roasting for a more savory profile, or pair it with a simple greens salad or roasted protein to round out the meal. Leftovers reheat beautifully and make an excellent next-day lunch.
Intentional, locally sourced, seasonal dishes like this are exactly what I love creating for my in-home fine dining dinner parties and date night experiences. Thoughtful food doesn’t need to be complicated—it just needs care, balance, and great ingredients.