From soups to salads, squash is the ultimate autumn ingredient for delicious, comforting meals. With acorn and butternut squash in peak season, here are five easy and flavorful recipes that showcase the versatility of squash. Perfect for warming up on a cool day or impressing friends with a fall-inspired meal.
As the days grow colder, there’s nothing I enjoy more than cozying up in the kitchen with fall produce like squash. I’ve found that acorn squash, butternut squash, and yellow squash can elevate even the simplest recipes into hearty, nourishing meals. These recipes are designed to be approachable, using minimal ingredients that bring out the natural sweetness and warmth of these seasonal favorites. Let’s dive into my top five squash recipes for fall that are perfect for anyone looking to create comforting, homemade dishes.
Creamy Acorn Squash Pasta Sauce
If you’re a fan of creamy pasta sauces but want a lighter, plant-based option, this acorn squash pasta sauce is a game-changer. Roasted acorn squash adds a nutty, rich flavor to this sauce, and a hint of ground black pepper and virgin olive oil brings out the squash’s sweetness. This sauce pairs beautifully with any pasta shape, making it a fantastic go-to for cozy dinners. Just roast the squash, blend with a touch of maple syrup and parmesan, and pour over hot pasta.
Pro Tip: Top with roasted brussels sprouts for an extra layer of texture and flavor, or try adding a sprinkle of parmesan for a richer finish.
Acorn Squash Salad with Turkey and Roasted Pears
This acorn squash salad with turkey and roasted pears is an easy, nutritious meal that combines sweet, savory, and earthy flavors in one dish. The acorn squash adds heartiness, while the roasted pears bring a natural sweetness that balances the turkey perfectly. A drizzle of virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of ground black pepper finish off the dish, making it ideal for lunch or a light dinner.
Pro Tip: For added crunch, toss in some toasted nuts like walnuts or pecans, and add a sprinkle of parmesan for depth.
Butternut Squash and Arugula Salad
This simple butternut squash and arugula salad is a must-try for those who love contrasting flavors and textures. The roasted butternut squash brings a caramelized sweetness, while fresh arugula adds a peppery bite. With a dressing of olive oil and a dash of maple syrup, this salad is as easy as it is delicious.
Pro Tip: Add a touch of feta or goat cheese for creaminess, and sprinkle with toasted pumpkin seeds to complete the dish with a little crunch.
Classic Butternut Squash Soup
Nothing says fall like a warm bowl of butternut squash soup. This classic soup highlights the natural sweetness of butternut squash and is both dairy-free and gluten-free, making it suitable for a variety of dietary needs. Roasting the squash enhances its flavor, and blending with vegetable broth creates a velvety texture. Seasoned with ground black pepper and a pinch of cinnamon, this soup is perfect for those cooler evenings.
Pro Tip: For a richer flavor, roast the squash with a bit of maple syrup or cinnamon before blending. Garnish with fresh herbs like thyme or a swirl of coconut cream for an extra touch.
Creamy Roasted Acorn Squash Soup
Similar to the butternut squash soup but with its own unique flavor, this creamy roasted acorn squash soup is another fantastic option. Acorn squash has a more subtle taste than butternut but brings a creamy texture that makes for a soothing, cozy soup. This recipe is dairy-free but feels indulgent, with a bit of maple syrup and virgin olive oil to round out the flavors.
Pro Tip: Add roasted garlic to deepen the flavor, and top with toasted nuts or seeds for added texture.
Additional Tips for Cooking with Squash
- Roast the Squash First: Roasting enhances the natural sweetness and flavor of squash, whether it’s butternut, acorn, or yellow squash.
- Use Olive Oil and Black Pepper: A simple seasoning of virgin olive oil and ground black pepper goes a long way in elevating the taste of roasted squash.
- Experiment with Toppings: Try adding parmesan, brussels sprouts, or nuts to bring more texture and richness to your squash dishes.
Final Thoughts
These squash recipes are perfect for enjoying fall’s best produce in a variety of ways. From creamy sauces and comforting soups to refreshing salads, there’s something here for everyone. These easy fall recipes showcase how versatile squash can be and are sure to make your fall cooking even more enjoyable.
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Christopher is a food and lifestyle expert, recipe developer and the content creator behind May Eighty Five. With over 6 years of creating recipes for your favourite food brands, he also shares tips, tricks and how to’s that he has learnt over the years. Every week, he shares quick, simple and mostly healthy recipes along with some home and entertaining tips. You will find flavorful cocktails, delicious appetizers, tasty mains and some indulgent desserts.
