Honeynut Squash: Small on the Outside, Big on Flavor

B"H

It's pumpkin season, and while everyone reaches for the big orange pumpkins, there's a small gem worth a place on your table: the Honeynut squash. It looks like a miniature butternut, but it's sweeter, silkier, and wonderfully tasty.

Try it in an orange soup, in a pumpkin pie, as stuffed acorn squash with rice, cranberries and coarsely chopped almonds, or in this easy tray of caramelized squash, a perfect side dish for the whole family.

Caramelized Roasted Squash with Silan & Warm Fall Spices

All measurements are in standard measuring cups and spoons.

Ingredients:

- 1 honeynut squash

- 1 medium acorn squash

- 1/2 medium butternut squash

- 3 Tbsp liquid coconut oil

- 3 Tbsp silan (date syrup) or good-quality honey

- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract

- 1 tsp pumpkin spice

- 1/2 tsp cinnamon

- 1/4 tsp fine Himalayan salt

- 1/2 cup pecans

- 2 Tbsp green pumpkin seeds

Optional add-ons:

- 1/4 cup unsweetened cranberries, added with the pecans and pumpkin seeds

- A few cubes of tofu, for tofu lovers

- A sprinkle of pomegranate seeds on top - also in season, and they add a lot of color and flavor

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large, flat baking tray with parchment paper.

2. Wash the squash well, scoop out the seeds, and cut lengthwise into wedges, so all the pieces are symmetrical.

3. Whisk the liquid coconut oil with the silan, vanilla, spices and salt. Pour over the squash and toss with your hands until every piece is coated. Spread in a single layer.

4. Bake on the top rack for 30 minutes. Move the tray to the bottom rack for 10 more minutes.

5. Take the tray out and gently turn the squash over. Scatter the pecans and pumpkin seeds (and cranberries, if using) on top, and return the tray to the bottom rack for 10 more minutes.

6. Transfer to a serving platter and serve warm.

Tip: the thin skins of the honeynut and acorn squash are edible and turn crisp when roasted. Eating them is optional, so enjoy them with or without the skin.

Enjoy!

Visit my website: https://www.simahealthcuisine.com/