Spicy Mediterranean Acorn Squash with Almonds, Apricot, and Chicken
🌟Main ingredient:Acorn squash
✨secondary ingredients: almonds and apricot
⏱️Cooking time: 30 minutes
🌶️Spice level: Spicy
👨👩👦👦Number of diners: Couple
Ingredients
1
acorn
squash
1/2
cup
almonds
2
dried
apricots
2
boneless,
skinless
chicken
breasts
1
teaspoon
paprika
1/2
teaspoon
cayenne
pepper
1/2
teaspoon
ground
cumin
1/2
teaspoon
ground
coriander
1/2
teaspoon
salt
1/4
teaspoon
black
pepper
2
tablespoons
olive
oil
1
tablespoon
lemon
juice
1
tablespoon
honey
1
garlic
clove,
minced
1/4
cup
chopped
fresh
parsley
1/4
cup
chopped
fresh
mint
Cooking steps
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Cut the acorn squash in half and remove the seeds. Slice each half into 1-inch thick wedges.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the paprika, cayenne pepper, cumin, coriander, salt, and black pepper. Add the acorn squash wedges and toss to coat evenly.
Spread the seasoned acorn squash wedges on a baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized.
While the acorn squash is roasting, prepare the chicken. In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, lemon juice, honey, minced garlic, and chopped parsley.
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side until cooked through.
Remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes. Slice the chicken breasts into thin strips.
In a separate small bowl, combine the chopped almonds, chopped dried apricots, and chopped fresh mint.
To serve, arrange the roasted acorn squash wedges on a plate. Top with sliced chicken and sprinkle the almond-apricot-mint mixture over the dish.
Serve the spicy Mediterranean acorn squash with your choice of side dish, such as steamed rice or a green salad.
Our AI-Recipe generators
Create more with our unique recipe generators, We have a recipe generator for everyone
Follow us on social media for more delicious recipes and cooking inspiration!
We love sharing our passion for cooking with our followers on social media.
Join us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Medium for more delicious recipes, cooking tips, and behind-the-scenes content.
We have some amazing coocking tips for you!
Cooking a new dish
Starting to cook a new dish begins with selecting a recipe that matches your skill level and gathering all the necessary ingredients. Before diving in, read through the entire recipe to understand the steps and timing involved. Next, prepare your workspace by cleaning the countertops, organizing your tools, and setting out ingredients. Prepping the ingredients—such as washing, chopping, and measuring—is key to ensuring a smooth cooking process. As you cook, follow the recipe step by step, taking your time and tasting along the way to adjust flavors. Finally, serve the dish with care and enjoy the fruits of your labor.
Preparing your workspace correctly
Preparing your workspace involves starting with clean countertops, organizing your tools and equipment, and setting out all the necessary ingredients within reach. Arrange your tools, like knives, cutting boards, and measuring cups, close by for easy access, and pre-measure ingredients if possible to save time during cooking. It's helpful to have a trash bowl for food scraps to keep the area tidy. Ensure your workspace is well-lit and free of unnecessary items to maximize space. If your recipe requires it, preheat the oven or pans while organizing your space. Having a clean and organized workspace makes the cooking process more efficient and enjoyable.
Preparing your ingredients in advance
Prepping ingredients, or "mise en place," involves getting everything ready before cooking. This includes washing and chopping vegetables, measuring out ingredients, and preparing items like garlic, onions, or meat as required by the recipe. You might also marinate, soften, or melt ingredients if needed. Once prepped, arrange everything in small bowls or containers for easy access during cooking. This preparation helps streamline the cooking process and ensures you can focus on cooking without interruptions.