Are you looking for a delicious and easy-to-make side dish that’s perfect for any occasion? Look no further than acorn squash! This nutritious and flavorful vegetable is a staple in many cuisines, and can be prepared in a variety of ways to suit your taste. In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 quick and tasty recipes for microwave-acorn squash that are sure to become a new favorite.
From classic pairings like brown sugar and butter to more adventurous combinations like quinoa and chili flakes, there’s something on this list for everyone. And the best part? Each recipe can be cooked in just minutes using your trusty microwave, making it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays.
So why wait? Get ready to cozy up with some delicious acorn squash recipes that are sure to warm your heart and fill your belly!
Microwave Acorn Squash with Brown Sugar and Butter
This recipe is a deliciously simple way to cook acorn squash, bringing out its natural sweetness and adding a rich, buttery flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized acorn squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Cut the acorn squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
2. Place each squash half on a microwave-safe plate.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and softened butter until well combined.
4. Spoon the sugar-butter mixture evenly over both squash halves.
5. Sprinkle with salt to taste.
6. Microwave on high for 12-15 minutes, or until the squash is tender when pierced with a fork.
7. Remove from microwave and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Easy Microwave Acorn Squash and Cinnamon
Transform a humble acorn squash into a deliciously aromatic and sweet treat with this easy microwave recipe. Perfect for a quick dessert or snack, this method yields a tender and flavorful result without much fuss.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized acorn squash (about 2-3 lbs)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions:
1. Rinse the squash under cold water, then pat dry with a paper towel.
2. Cut off both ends of the squash and slice it in half lengthwise.
3. Scoop out the seeds and pulp, leaving the skin intact.
4. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine brown sugar, cinnamon, and butter.
5. Place one squash half on top of the mixture and microwave for 10-12 minutes.
6. Repeat with the second squash half.
7. Let stand for 2-3 minutes before serving warm.
Cooking Time: 20-24 minutes
Microwave Acorn Squash Stuffed with Quinoa
A nutritious and flavorful twist on traditional squash recipes, this microwave-friendly dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium acorn squash (about 2 lbs)
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cut the squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
2. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine cooked quinoa, chopped parsley, and crumbled feta cheese (if using).
3. Place one squash half on a microwave-safe plate, then spoon the quinoa mixture into the cavity.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Microwave on high for 12-15 minutes or until the squash is tender.
6. Repeat with the second squash half.
Cooking Time: 24-30 minutes
Maple Glazed Microwave Acorn Squash
This recipe brings out the natural sweetness of acorn squash with a hint of maple syrup, perfect for a quick and easy side dish. With only 10 minutes of microwave cooking time, you can enjoy this sweet and savory treat in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized acorn squash (about 1 pound)
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt to taste
– Optional: cinnamon or nutmeg for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat the microwave to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the acorn squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
3. In a small bowl, mix together maple syrup and olive oil.
4. Brush the mixture evenly onto both halves of the squash.
5. Season with salt and any desired spices (cinnamon or nutmeg).
6. Place the squash cut-side up on a microwave-safe plate.
7. Cook for 10 minutes, or until the squash is tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Microwave Acorn Squash with Honey and Pecans
This recipe is a simple and flavorful way to cook acorn squash in the microwave, topped with a drizzle of honey and crunchy pecans. It’s perfect as a side dish or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 small acorn squash (about 1 pound)
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions:
1. Cut the acorn squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
2. Place the squash halves in a microwave-safe dish, cut side up.
3. Microwave on high for 15-20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
4. Drizzle the honey over the warm squash, then sprinkle with pecans and dot with butter.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Savory Microwave Acorn Squash with Garlic and Herbs
Transform a humble acorn squash into a flavorful, aromatic side dish using your microwave! This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized acorn squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat your microwave to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the acorn squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic, olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Place the squash halves on a microwave-safe plate and brush the garlic-herb mixture evenly over both sides of the squash.
5. Cover the plate with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap to retain moisture.
6. Microwave for 12-15 minutes or until the squash is tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Microwave Acorn Squash and Apple Medley
Discover the sweet and savory combination of roasted acorn squash and crisp apple, perfectly cooked in just minutes using your microwave. This easy recipe is perfect for a quick side dish or healthy snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized acorn squash (about 2 lbs)
– 1 large apple, peeled and sliced
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp cinnamon
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Pierce the squash with a fork several times to allow steam to escape.
2. Microwave on high for 3-4 minutes, or until the squash is slightly tender.
3. Remove the squash and add the sliced apple, honey, cinnamon, and salt. Toss gently to combine.
4. Return the mixture to the microwave and cook on high for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until the apple is tender and the squash is fully cooked.
5. Serve warm, garnished with any desired toppings (such as chopped nuts or a dollop of yogurt).
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Microwave Acorn Squash with Coconut Milk
This recipe brings together the natural sweetness of acorn squash with the creamy richness of coconut milk, all cooked to perfection in just a few minutes. The result is a deliciously flavorful side dish that’s perfect for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized acorn squash (about 2 lbs)
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat your microwave to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the acorn squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
3. Place each squash half on a microwave-safe plate, cut side up.
4. Drizzle the coconut milk over the squash, followed by the honey and salt.
5. Microwave for 12-15 minutes, or until the squash is tender when pierced with a fork.
6. Serve warm, garnished with your choice of herbs or spices.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Spicy Microwave Acorn Squash with Chili Flakes
Get ready to spice up your fall cooking with this easy and flavorful recipe for Spicy Microwave Acorn Squash with Chili Flakes.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized acorn squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp chili flakes
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: brown sugar or honey, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the microwave on high for 3-4 minutes.
2. Cut the acorn squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
3. Place the squash halves on a microwave-safe dish, cut side up.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the squash, then sprinkle with chili flakes and salt.
5. Microwave for 12-15 minutes or until the squash is tender and caramelized.
6. If desired, drizzle with brown sugar or honey before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Microwave Acorn Squash and Sausage Stuffing
This recipe combines the comforting flavors of roasted acorn squash with savory sausage and stuffing, all cooked to perfection in just a few minutes in the microwave.
Ingredients:
– 1 small acorn squash (about 1 lb)
– 1/2 cup sausage (such as Italian sausage or Chorizo), casings removed
– 1/4 cup stale bread, cubed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Pierce the acorn squash several times with a fork.
2. Cook the squash on high in the microwave for 3-4 minutes, or until slightly tender.
3. Remove the squash from the microwave and carefully cut it in half lengthwise.
4. In a large bowl, cook the sausage in the microwave on high for 30-45 seconds, or until browned and cooked through.
5. Add the bread, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper to the bowl with the sausage. Mix well.
6. Stuff each squash half with the sausage mixture, dividing it evenly between both halves.
Cooking Time: Approximately 5 minutes (including cooking time for the squash).
Microwave Acorn Squash with Cranberry Glaze
A delicious and easy side dish that’s perfect for the fall season! This recipe uses the convenience of a microwave to cook the squash quickly, while the cranberry glaze adds a sweet and tangy flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 small acorn squash (about 1 lb)
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp butter, melted
– 1/4 cup cranberry sauce
– 1 tsp orange zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the microwave on high for 3 minutes.
2. Cut the acorn squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
3. Place the squash cut-side up in a microwave-safe dish.
4. Mix together the brown sugar, melted butter, cranberry sauce, and orange zest.
5. Spoon the glaze over the squash, making sure to cover the entire surface.
6. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap.
7. Microwave on high for 12-15 minutes, or until the squash is tender when pierced with a fork.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Microwave Acorn Squash and Kale Salad
This recipe is a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, with the added bonus of being quick to prepare and nutritious. In just 10 minutes, you’ll have a delicious salad ready to go!
Ingredients:
– 1 medium acorn squash
– 2 cups kale leaves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the microwave to 3 minutes.
2. Cut the acorn squash in half lengthwise, scoop out the seeds, and place it cut-side up on a microwave-safe plate.
3. Microwave the squash for 3 minutes, or until tender.
4. Meanwhile, massage the kale leaves with olive oil, salt, and pepper until they’re slightly softened.
5. In a large bowl, combine the cooked squash, kale, apple cider vinegar, and feta cheese (if using).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Microwave Acorn Squash with Parmesan Cheese
This recipe brings out the natural sweetness of acorn squash while adding a savory and rich flavor from the Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a side dish for your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized acorn squash (about 1 lb)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cut the top off the acorn squash and scoop out the seeds.
2. Place the squash in a microwave-safe dish and add the butter.
3. Microwave on high for 10 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
4. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the squash and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Microwave for an additional 30 seconds to melt the cheese.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (plus 30 seconds)
Microwave Acorn Squash and Black Bean Mash
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of acorn squash with the earthy flavor of black beans, all in a quick and easy microwave dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium acorn squash (about 2 lbs)
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Pierce the acorn squash several times with a fork.
2. Microwave on high for 10-12 minutes, or until the squash is tender when pierced.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together black beans, olive oil, and garlic.
4. Once the squash is cooked, let it cool slightly. Scoop out the flesh and add it to the bowl with the black bean mixture.
5. Mash the mixture with a fork or potato masher until smooth.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Microwave Acorn Squash with Sage Butter
This recipe brings together the natural sweetness of acorn squash and the savory flavor of sage, all in a quick and easy microwave prep.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized acorn squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 tsp chopped fresh sage leaves
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your microwave to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the acorn squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
3. Place the squash halves on a microwave-safe plate, cut side up.
4. In a small bowl, mix together the butter and chopped sage leaves until well combined.
5. Spread the sage butter evenly over each squash half.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Microwave for 12-15 minutes, or until the squash is tender and the flesh easily shreds.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Microwave Acorn Squash and Turkey Filling
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of acorn squash with savory turkey filling, all cooked to perfection in just a few minutes. It’s a great alternative to traditional roasted squash or mashed potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium acorn squash (about 1 lb)
– 1/2 cup cooked turkey breast, diced
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cut the acorn squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
2. Place each squash half in a microwave-safe dish, cut side up.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together the turkey, butter, chicken broth, and shredded cheese.
4. Spoon the turkey mixture over the squash halves.
5. Cook on high for 8-10 minutes, or until the squash is tender and the filling is heated through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Microwave Acorn Squash with Yogurt Drizzle
A simple and healthy side dish that’s perfect for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized acorn squash (about 1 lb)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– 1/4 cup plain yogurt
– 1 tsp honey
Instructions:
1. Cut the acorn squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
2. Place the squash halves on a microwave-safe plate, cut side up.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the squash and sprinkle with salt to taste.
4. Microwave on high for 12-15 minutes, or until the squash is tender when pierced with a fork.
5. While the squash is cooking, mix together the yogurt and honey in a small bowl.
6. Once the squash is cooked, let it stand for 2-3 minutes before serving.
7. Drizzle the yogurt mixture over the top of each squash half.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Microwave Acorn Squash and Lentil Stew
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of acorn squash with the comforting warmth of lentils, all cooked to perfection in just a few minutes. A perfect solution for a quick and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
• 1 medium-sized acorn squash (about 2 lbs)
• 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
• 2 cups water
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: any additional spices or herbs you prefer
Instructions:
1. Cut the acorn squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
2. Place one of the squash halves in a microwave-safe bowl, cut side up.
3. In a separate bowl, combine lentils and water. Microwave for 3-4 minutes, stirring every minute until the lentils are tender.
4. Add the cooked lentils to the microwaved squash half. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and any desired spices or herbs.
5. Microwave the stew for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the flavors have melded together and the squash is tender.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes
Microwave Acorn Squash with Rosemary and Olive Oil
Elevate your side dish game with this easy and flavorful recipe that combines the natural sweetness of acorn squash with the savory essence of rosemary and olive oil.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized acorn squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your microwave to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the acorn squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
3. Place the squash halves on a microwave-safe plate, cut side up.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over each squash half, followed by sprinkling chopped rosemary and a pinch of salt.
5. Cover the plate with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the squash is tender when pierced with a fork.
6. Remove from the microwave and let it stand for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Microwave Acorn Squash and Goat Cheese Delight
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of acorn squash with the tanginess of goat cheese, all cooked to perfection in just a few minutes. A perfect side dish or light lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 small acorn squash (about 1 pound)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the microwave to high.
2. Pierce the acorn squash in several places with a fork.
3. Place the squash in a microwave-safe dish, cut side up.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the squash and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
5. Microwave for 12-15 minutes, or until the squash is tender when pierced with a fork.
6. Remove the squash from the microwave and top with crumbled goat cheese and drizzle with honey.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to cook up some delicious acorn squash recipes quickly and easily with your microwave! This collection of 20 recipes offers a variety of sweet and savory options, from classic combinations like brown sugar and butter to more adventurous pairings like quinoa and chili flakes. Whether you’re in the mood for something comforting and familiar or something new and exciting, there’s an acorn squash recipe here that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
