Ingredients
- 1 lb organic acorn squash
- cinnamon
- 2 Tbs. balsamic vinegar
Directions
- Preheat oven to 425 degrees.
- Wash the acorn squash thoroughly.
- Cut the squash into slices/ rings. Once sliced, scoop out any seeds inside.
- Line a cookie sheet with foil; spray with nonstick spray. Place acorn squash slices on top, then dust with cinnamon.
- Bake for 30 minutes, or until squash is tender.
- To make the balsamic glaze, all you have to do is reduce the balsamic vinegar. Place the two tablespoons of balsamic vinegar in a small pan over medium-low heat. Very carefully, allow some of the liquid to evaporate, leaving a thicker balsamic reduction. WARNING: It should only take 5-7 minutes to reduce, if you have your heat low enough. Be careful of heating it too quickly or too long, because if all the liquid evaporates out you’ll have to start all over. Once it’s reduced by about ½ -3/4 of the original amount, remove from heat. Allow it to cool for a few seconds, then drizzle it over your cooked squash.
- Serve on top of salads or as a starch with your lunch or dinner.
When done, they should look something like this:
These would be a beautiful addition to your Thanksgiving meal…offering a healthy alternative to the typical Thanksgiving fare.
Nutrition
Per serving (makes two servings): 101 calories, 0.2 g fat, 0 g saturated fat, 0 mg cholesterol, 10 mg sodium, 25.4 g carbohydrates, 3.4 g fiber, 2.4 g sugars, 1.8 g protein.
Cinnamon: While studies are still being done on the health properties of cinnamon, current studies suggest cinnamon may play a role in lowering blood sugar, particularly in diabetics. Additionally, some studies are hinting that cinnamon may also offer antioxidant effects, fight bacteria, and reduce inflammation.
Acorn Squash: This fall/ winter squash is rich in vitamin A, vitamin C, fiber, manganese, vitamin B6, potassium, vitamin K, folate, tryptophan, copper, vitamin B12, omega-3 fatty acids, and magnesium. It offers antioxidant support, anti-inflammatory benefits, promotes optimal health, and may potentially help with blood sugar regulation. Additionally, more research is currently being done on the probability of acorn squash helping improve cardiovascular health.
Balsamic Vinegar: This vinegar is made from the sweet, white Trebbiano grapes from northern Italy. Balsamic vinegar provides calcium, iron, manganese, and potassium. Various health benefits include it acting as an appetite suppressant/ assisting with weight loss; providing antioxidants; and improving the digestive system and metabolism of individuals.
