Have you seen those dark green acorn-shaped squash that have vertical lines running through the skin and usually have a splash of orange, and wondered what they are? Acorn squash is a newer favorite in my house – at least with my middle child and I.
What is Acorn Squash
Acorn squash is a common squash you mainly find during the fall and winter. Although it is in the same family as zucchini most people know it as a winter squash. You can still find it other times of the year, just not as frequently or as inexpensively. It is easy to grow so maybe we all should try growing some next summer.
How to Choose Acorn Squash
Just like choosing zucchini, you are going to choose an acorn squash that is firm with no soft spots or blemishes. Also choose heavier squash as they usually have more “meat” to them.
What Acorn Squash Tastes Like
Last week a reader asked me what acorn squash tastes like. Here’s my unprofessional opinion. It tastes a bit like butternut squash but stringier. However, it is nowhere near as stringy as spaghetti squash. It has a richer flavor than spaghetti squash but not as buttery as butternut squash. When it is baked it has a nutty flavor.
TIP: Did you know the yellow squash flower is edible? You can stuff them and fry them.
How to Use Acorn Squash
You can use acorn squash in sweet or savory dishes. It is easy to bake or boil and I’ve seen it grilled. I’ve never actually grilled it to see how quickly it grills but plan to once we have our grill up and running again.
Baking Acorn Squash
- Cut the squash in half
- Scoop out the seeds
- Place upside down on a baking sheet
- Bake at 400 degrees for 35-45 minutes
Boiling Acorn Squash
- Cube squash
- Put in stockpot and cover with water
- Bring to a boil
- Turn down and cook until soft (15-20 minutes)
- Drain then mash or use as desired
Preserving Acorn Squash
Follow these steps for roasting a pumpkin to roast and freeze acorn squash.
Recipes with Acorn Squash
Slow Cooker Sage Chicken with Acorn Squash
Acorn Squash and Apple Egg Bake
Who’s adding acorn squash to the grocery list this week?
I am trying the stuffed acorn squash recipe you have posted tomorrow! !! Can’t wait!!#
Let me know what you think afterward! I hope it passes your meat and potato family’s approval. 🙂