Herb Roasted Acorn Squash With Queso Fresco And Pomegranate Recipes

ROASTED ACORN SQUASH WITH POMEGRANATE AND GOAT CHEESE

Steps:

• Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Line a sheet tray with parchment paper.
• Wash the two whole squash under running water and pat dry. Cut the squash in half by inserting the tip of a chef's knife in the center of the squash where the stem connects. Push the tip in until it has cut all the way through the skin and flesh, then press down firmly on the handle, bringing the heel of the blade all the way to the cutting board. Turn the squash 180 degrees and repeat on the other side, splitting the squash. Scrape out the seeds with a spoon.
• Slice the squash into 1/2-inch-thick slices. Heat a 14-inch cast-iron pan over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Once heated, add the squash in an even layer. Season with salt and pepper and sear on the first side until lightly golden brown, about 3 minutes, in batches if needed. Place the seared squash on the prepared sheet tray, seared-side down, and season the top side with salt and pepper. Scatter the thyme sprigs over the squash and put into the oven. Roast until the edges are brown and the squash is tender in the middle, 20 to 30 minutes.
• Transfer the squash to a large bowl, season with more salt, pepper and cumin to taste. Drizzle with the warmed syrup and toss to combine. Pour onto a platter and sprinkle with the pomegranate seeds and goat cheese.

ROASTED ACORN SQUASH WITH POMEGRANATE GLAZE

Steps:

• Preheat oven to 450 degrees. In a small saucepan, combine the juice, sugar, allspice, peppercorns, bay leaf, and cinnamon. Simmer until reduced to a syrup. Drain through a fine sieve into a small bowl, and discard spices.
• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Butter parchment. Lay the squash rings on top of parchment; brush tops with melted butter, and season with salt.
• Roast the squash until tender when pierced with a paring knife and undersides are well browned, about 30 minutes. Turn squash over, and brush tops with pomegranate glaze. Continue cooking 5 minutes more. Remove from oven; brush squash again with glaze. Transfer to a serving platter; serve immediately, garnished with pomegranate seeds.