🍯 Honey-Glazed Acorn Squash with Creamy Goat Cheese and Cranberry Drizzle

Ingredients:

• 2 acorn squash, halved and seeds removed

• 3 tbsp olive oil

• 3 tbsp honey

• 1 tsp cinnamon

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 4 oz (115g) creamy goat cheese

• 1/4 cup dried cranberries (or cranberry sauce)

• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar

• 1 tbsp brown sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)

• 2 tbsp chopped pecans or walnuts (for garnish)

• Fresh thyme or rosemary, for garnish

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Instructions:

1. Prepare the squash:
   Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Cut acorn squash into half-moon slices.

2. Glaze:
   In a bowl, whisk olive oil, honey, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Brush this mixture generously over the squash slices.

3. Roast:
   Place squash slices on the baking sheet and roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and caramelized.

4. Cranberry drizzle:
   In a small saucepan, combine dried cranberries (or cranberry sauce), balsamic vinegar, and brown sugar. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until thickened into a drizzle.

5. Assemble:
   Arrange roasted squash on a platter. Add dollops of creamy goat cheese. Drizzle with cranberry reduction.

6. Finish:
   Sprinkle chopped nuts and fresh herbs on top. Serve warm.

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❓ Q&A

Q1: Can I use another cheese instead of goat cheese?
👉 Yes, you can substitute with feta, ricotta, or cream cheese for a milder flavor.

Q2: How can I make it vegan?
👉 Use maple syrup instead of honey and replace goat cheese with vegan cashew cheese.

Q3: Can I make it ahead of time?
👉 Yes, roast the squash and make the cranberry drizzle ahead, but add goat cheese and garnish right before serving.

Q4: What proteins pair well with this dish?
👉 It pairs beautifully with roasted chicken, turkey, or even grilled salmon.

Q5: Can I use butternut squash instead of acorn?
👉 Absolutely! Butternut squash will work perfectly; just adjust roasting time (it may cook slightly faster).