Looking for a delicious and nutritious side dish that will elevate your culinary adventures? Look no further than Parmesan Roasted Acorn Squash. This delightful recipe combines the natural sweetness of acorn squash with the savory richness of Parmesan cheese, resulting in a dish that is both satisfying and packed with flavor. In this blog post, we will guide you through the step-by-step process of creating this mouthwatering dish. But first, we will explore the health benefits that this recipe offers, making it a perfect addition to your well-rounded diet.
Health Benefits of Parmesan Roasted Acorn Squash
- Rich in Essential Nutrients: Acorn squash is a nutritional powerhouse, providing an abundance of vitamins and minerals. It is particularly high in vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium, and magnesium. Vitamin A promotes healthy vision, while vitamin C supports immune function and collagen production. Potassium plays a vital role in maintaining a healthy heart, and magnesium is crucial for numerous bodily functions, including bone health and energy production.
- Antioxidant Powerhouse: Acorn squash contains high levels of antioxidants, which help protect the body from oxidative stress and inflammation. The vibrant orange color of acorn squash is an indicator of its high beta-carotene content, a powerful antioxidant that converts to vitamin A in the body.
- Supports Digestive Health: Acorn squash is an excellent source of dietary fiber, aiding in digestion and promoting bowel regularity. A diet rich in fiber has been associated with a reduced risk of digestive disorders, such as constipation and diverticulosis. Including acorn squash in your meals can contribute to a healthy digestive system.
- Bone Health: The combination of essential minerals found in acorn squash, such as magnesium and potassium, supports bone health. Magnesium is essential for calcium absorption and utilization, while potassium helps prevent the loss of calcium through urine.
- Weight Management: Acorn squash is a low-calorie and nutrient-dense food, making it a valuable addition to a weight management plan. Its high fiber content promotes satiety and can help control appetite, preventing overeating.
- Flavorful Alternative to Processed Ingredients: The addition of Parmesan cheese in this recipe not only enhances the flavor but also offers some health benefits. Parmesan cheese is a good source of protein and calcium, important for muscle growth and bone health. By using Parmesan cheese instead of processed ingredients with artificial flavors and additives, you can elevate the nutritional value of your meal.
- AIP Paleo Powder: The use of AIP Paleo Powder adds an extra dimension of flavor to the roasted acorn squash. This seasoning blend is specifically designed for those following the Autoimmune Protocol (AIP) diet, which aims to reduce inflammation and support overall health. The AIP Paleo Powder typically consists of ingredients like turmeric, garlic, onion, and other herbs and spices known for their anti-inflammatory properties.
Now, let’s dive into this amazingly simple and delicious Parmesan Roasted Acorn Squash recipe:
Parmesan Roasted Acorn Squash
Equipment
- Baking Sheet
Ingredients
- 2 small acorn squash seeded and cut into ¼” slices
- 2 tbsp olive oil extra virgin
- 1 tsp himalayan salt
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp AIP Paleo Powder
Instructions
- Heat oven to 350°F.
- Slice squash.
- Using your hands, toss the squash together with the olive oil, parmesan, AIP Paleo Powder and himalayan right on a rimmed baking sheet.
- Lay the squash flat in a single layer, or the closest thing you can get to a single layer.
- Roast the squash on the middle rack for 25 minutes, or until golden brown and tender.
Notes
This recipe calls for 2 small acorn squashes, because smaller ones are easier than larger ones to cut up. But if you’ve got a heavy, sharp knife, the skills and the inclination, a large squash will do.
The AIP Paleo Powder is a mixture of Himalayan salt, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Oregano , Basil and Sage. Feel free to use these herbs in any combination to your taste preference if you do not have the AIP Paleo Powder.Nutrition
Parmesan Roasted Acorn Squash is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a dish that offers a multitude of health benefits. From its nutrient-dense profile to its antioxidant properties, this recipe showcases the natural goodness of acorn squash. By incorporating this delightful dish into your culinary repertoire, you can enjoy a flavorful and wholesome addition to your meals.
Remember to source fresh and organic ingredients whenever possible to maximize the nutritional value of the dish. Whether you’re seeking a side dish for a family dinner or looking to impress guests with a savory delight, Parmesan Roasted Acorn Squash is a recipe that will satisfy your cravings and nourish your body.
So, why wait? Embrace the delightful combination of flavors and reap the health benefits of this fantastic dish. Enjoy the delightful journey of savoring Parmesan Roasted Acorn Squash, and relish the nutritious rewards it brings to your plate and well-being.
If you are looking for more tips and support, join me over on my group page, The Village – A Natural HEALing Community, to get tons of information and tips to help you take your HEALTHY EATING and ACTIVE LIVING to the next level.
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