Apple Stuffed Acorn Squash

• acorn squash↗1

  medium

• butter↗2 teaspoons
• fuji apple↗1

  cored and finely diced

• dried cranberries↗1⁄4 cup
• orange juice↗3 -4 tablespoons
• apple pie spice1⁄4 teaspoon
• pecans↗2 tablespoons

  finely chopped

• orange zest↗1 tablespoon
• maple syrup↗1 tablespoon

Step-by-step instructions

1. 1

   Cut the squash in half; discard seeds.

2. 2

   Place the squash cut side down in a microwave safe dish; add 1/2 inch of water.

3. 3

   Microwave on high, uncovered, for 10 to 12 minutes or until tender; drain.

4. 4

   While the squash is cooking, melt the butter in a non-stick skillet and add the diced apple.

5. 5

   Cook, stirring frequently for 2 to 3 minutes, add the orange juice, apple pie spice, cranberries and chopped pecans.

6. 6

   Continue to cook for 1 to 2 minutes or until the orange juice has evaporated, stir in orange zest.

7. 7

   Divide the mixture between the squash halves, drizzle with maple syrup and place under broiler for a few minutes to brown lightly.

8. 8

   Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.

9. 9

   Hint: For easier cutting of the squash, place in microwave and microwave on high for 1 minute or until slightly warm.