Deliciously Easy Vegan Acorn Squash Recipes

Acorn squash, with its vibrant green exterior and sweet, nutty flesh, is a fall favorite. But did you know it’s also incredibly versatile and perfect for creating satisfying vegan dishes? This article explores simple yet flavorful vegan acorn squash recipes that will have you embracing this seasonal gem in no time.

Why You’ll Love Vegan Acorn Squash Recipes

Roasted acorn squash halves

Beyond its beautiful appearance, acorn squash boasts a naturally sweet flavor that intensifies with cooking. It’s packed with nutrients like vitamin C, potassium, and fiber, making it a healthy and delicious addition to any meal. Whether you prefer savory or sweet preparations, there’s a vegan acorn squash recipe waiting to be discovered.

Choosing and Preparing Your Acorn Squash

When selecting an acorn squash, look for one that feels heavy for its size and has smooth, blemish-free skin. It should have a deep green color, with some orange or yellow patches indicating ripeness.

To prepare the acorn squash:

1. Wash thoroughly: Scrub the exterior under cold water to remove any dirt.
2. Cut in half lengthwise: Use a sharp chef’s knife to carefully cut the squash in half from stem to tip.
3. Scoop out the seeds: Use a spoon to remove the seeds and stringy fibers from the center cavity.

Scooping out the seeds from an acorn squash

“Many people discard the seeds, but don’t! Roasted acorn squash seeds make a delicious and nutritious snack.” – Chef Anya, Plant-Based Chef

Simple Roasted Acorn Squash

Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of the acorn squash and creates a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Ingredients:

• 1 acorn squash, halved and seeded
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the squash halves cut-side up in a baking dish.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper.
4. Roast for 45-60 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.

Baked acorn squash with herbs

This basic recipe serves as a blank canvas for a variety of flavor combinations.

Savory Vegan Acorn Squash Recipes

Stuffed Acorn Squash with Wild Rice and Cranberries

This recipe combines hearty wild rice, tart cranberries, and crunchy pecans for a satisfying and flavorful meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 acorn squash, halved and seeded
• 1 cup cooked wild rice
• ½ cup dried cranberries
• ½ cup chopped pecans
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place the squash halves cut-side up in a baking dish.
3. In a bowl, combine the cooked wild rice, cranberries, pecans, parsley, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Fill each squash half with the wild rice mixture.
5. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the squash is tender and the filling is heated through.

Curried Acorn Squash Soup

This creamy and comforting soup is perfect for a chilly evening.

Ingredients:

• 1 acorn squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon curry powder
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the onion and garlic in olive oil over medium heat until softened.
2. Add the cubed acorn squash and curry powder, and cook for 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
3. Pour in the vegetable broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
4. Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender to puree until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Sweet Vegan Acorn Squash Recipes

Maple-Cinnamon Roasted Acorn Squash

Ingredients:

• 1 acorn squash, halved and seeded
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• Pinch of nutmeg
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the squash halves cut-side up in a baking dish.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
4. Pour the mixture over the squash halves.
5. Roast for 45-60 minutes, or until tender.

Maple-cinnamon roasted acorn squash

“The key to a perfectly caramelized maple-cinnamon glaze is to baste the acorn squash with the pan juices during the last 15 minutes of cooking.” – Chef Anya, Plant-Based Chef

Acorn Squash Breakfast Bowl

Start your day with a warm and comforting breakfast bowl.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked acorn squash, mashed
• ½ cup rolled oats
• 1 cup plant-based milk
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• Toppings of your choice (berries, nuts, seeds)

Instructions:

1. In a small saucepan, combine the mashed acorn squash, oats, plant-based milk, maple syrup, and cinnamon.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the oats are cooked and the mixture has thickened.
3. Pour into a bowl and top with your favorite toppings.

FAQs About Vegan Acorn Squash Recipes

Can you eat the skin of acorn squash?
Yes, the skin of acorn squash is edible! Roasting it softens the skin enough to eat.

How do you store leftover cooked acorn squash?
Store cooked acorn squash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can you freeze acorn squash?
Yes! Cut the squash in half, scoop out the seeds, and roast until tender. Let it cool completely, then scoop out the flesh and freeze in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months.

What are some other ways to cook acorn squash?
Beyond roasting, you can steam, microwave, or even air-fry acorn squash.

Can I substitute butternut squash for acorn squash?
While they have different flavors, butternut squash can be used as a substitute in most acorn squash recipes.

These vegan acorn squash recipes offer just a glimpse into the culinary possibilities this versatile vegetable provides. With its sweet, nutty flavor and adaptability, acorn squash deserves a place at your table all season long.