How To Roast Acorn Squash For Soup

When the weather starts to cool down, there's nothing quite as comforting as a warm bowl of homemade acorn squash soup. The rich, nutty flavor of roasted acorn squash paired with aromatic spices makes for a delicious and nourishing meal. If you're looking to make a batch of this hearty soup, you'll need to start by roasting the acorn squash. In this guide, we'll walk you through the steps to roast acorn squash for soup so you can enjoy a cozy bowl of homemade goodness.

Choosing the Perfect Acorn Squash

Before you can begin roasting your acorn squash, it's important to select the perfect ones. Look for squash that are firm and heavy for their size, with a deep green color and a small patch of orange. Avoid squash with soft spots or blemishes, as these may indicate that the squash is past its prime.

Preparing the Squash

To prepare the acorn squash for roasting, start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is heating up, carefully cut the squash in half lengthwise using a sharp knife. Use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and stringy pulp from the center of the squash. You can save the seeds for roasting later if you'd like.

Seasoning the Squash

Once the squash is cleaned out, it's time to season it. Drizzle the cut sides of the squash with a bit of olive oil, then sprinkle with salt, pepper, and a pinch of cinnamon for a touch of warmth. You can also add a bit of brown sugar or maple syrup for a hint of sweetness, if desired.

Roasting the Squash

Place the seasoned squash halves, cut side down, on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This will help prevent the squash from sticking to the pan and make for easier cleanup. Roast the squash in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes, or until the flesh is tender and easily pierced with a fork.

Cooling and Scooping

Once the squash is done roasting, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Once it's cool enough to handle, use a spoon to carefully scoop the roasted flesh from the skin. The flesh should be soft and easy to separate from the skin.

Using Roasted Acorn Squash for Soup

Now that you have perfectly roasted acorn squash, you can use it as the base for a delicious soup. Simply combine the roasted squash with some vegetable broth, sautéed onions, garlic, and your choice of spices in a large pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Serve the soup hot, garnished with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs.

Roasting acorn squash for soup is a simple and rewarding process that yields a flavorful and versatile ingredient for all your fall cooking needs. Whether you're making soup, adding it to a salad, or enjoying it as a side dish, roasted acorn squash is sure to bring warmth and comfort to your table. So next time you're at the market, be sure to pick up a few acorn squash and give this roasting method a try!