Smashed Acorn Squash and Garlicky Walnut Crostini

Name: Smashed Acorn Squash and Garlicky Walnut Crostini
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 6 - 8 serving(s)
Ingredients: 2 small (or 1 large) acorn squash, halved and seeded; Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper; 1/4 c. plus 1 tablespoon olive oil, divided; 2 cloves garlic, sliced; 1/2 c. walnuts, roughly chopped; 1 1/2 tsp. sherry vinegar; 1 (12-ounce) baguette, sliced and toasted; 2 oz. blue cheese, crumbled (about 1/2 cup); Fried sage leaves, for serving (optional)

Serve these nibblers at your next gathering — or build a snack dinner around 'em!

By Kate MerkerPublished: Sep 3, 2022

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smashed acorn squash and garlicky walnut crostini

Becky Luigart-Stayner

Yields:

6 - 8 serving(s)

Prep Time:

20 mins

Total Time:

40 mins

Roasted until it's impossibly sweet, acorn squash makes a tasty toast-topper for a party hors d'oeuvre or as the centerpiece of a snack dinner. Paired with blue cheese crumbles and some quick-fried sage leaves, this appetizer is sure to disappear quickly.

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Ingredients

2 small (or 1 large) acorn squash, halved and seeded
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
1/4 cup plus 1 tablespoon olive oil, divided
2 cloves garlic, sliced
1/2 cup walnuts, roughly chopped
1 1/2 tsp. sherry vinegar
1 (12-ounce) baguette, sliced and toasted
2 oz. blue cheese, crumbled (about 1/2 cup)
Fried sage leaves, for serving (optional)

Directions

1. Step 1Season squash with salt and pepper. Arrange cut sides down on a microwave-safe plate or baking dish. Microwave on HIGH until tender, 8 to 10 minutes. (Squash can also be roasted in a 425°F oven for 25 to 30 minutes.) Scoop flesh into a bowl; discard skins. Add 1 tablespoon oil and mash with a potato masher. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Step 2Meanwhile, heat remaining 1/4 cup oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and walnuts. Cook, stirring often, until the nuts are lightly toasted and fragrant and the garlic is golden brown, 4 to 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in vinegar.
3. Step 3Spread squash mixture on toasts, dividing evenly. Top with walnut mixture, blue cheese, and fried sage, if desired.