Acorn squash is a fairly unusual ingredient, but it is certainly worth checking out. If you know the right techniques, you’ll likely find that preparing this sweet, nutritious squash is much easier than you would think. Here are the basic steps for prepping and baking acorn squash.

1. Slice the squash in half using a very sharp knife. It shouldn’t require too much pressure from you, as forcing a dull knife through the squash could result in injury.
2. All squash contain seeds and stringy particles inside, so be sure to scoop those out using a metal spoon. It doesn’t have to be perfectly clean, just enough so that you don’t end up with a mouth full of seeds.
3. Place the squash halves face down on a foil-lined baking sheet, then add enough water so that it slightly covers the bottom of the squash. This will ensure that the squash gets moist and soft.
4. Bake at 350° for 35 to 45 minutes, checking the acorn squash periodically to gauge its softness.
5. Remove from the oven and add a bit of butter to the center of each half. Place the squash under the broiler for 5 minutes, until the butter melts and the squash turns a lovely brown color. You can also add a teaspoon of brown sugar or a sprinkle of salt for added flavor.

How to Prepare/Bake Acorn Squash [Chef In You]
How To: Cook Acorn Squash [The Kitchen Magpie]
Acorn Squash Basics [Martha Stewart]

CC-BY-2.0/Flickr/Jeremy Seitz

Warm soups are great and Thanksgiving turkey is tasty, but when it comes to favorite fall foods, pumpkin pie is typically at the top of the list. There’s just nothing better than this rich, flavorful pie come autumn, whether you prefer to top it with whipped cream or to eat it warm out of the oven. Here are three of our favorite recipes for pumpkin pie.

Libby’s Famous Pumpkin Pie [verybestbaking.com]
Since it requires only 15 minutes of prep time, this pie will be emitting a delicious scent from the oven with plenty of time to spare before the arrival of your last-minute guests. Canned pumpkin, evaporated milk, and a pre-made pie crust make this one of the easiest pumpkin pie recipes you’ll find.

The Ultimate Pumpkin Pie [epicurious.com]
This elaborate recipe from Epicurious is ideal for the experienced baker who wants to add a bit more spice to the usual pumpkin pie. Whipping cream and sour cream make it extra thick and creamy, while the generous helpings of spices add major flavor in every bite.

Homemade Pumpkin Pie [pickyourown.org]
Pick Your Own’s homemade pumpkin pie uses real pumpkin instead of canned to offer the freshest taste possible in your seasonal dessert. Although it may seem intimidating, the results are more than worth it.

CC-BY-SA-2.0/Flickr/Ann Larie Valentine

You’re committed to a healthy eating plan, and your first stop is the local supermarket. Here are a few simple, smart tips to help steer you away from the sweets aisle and toward the fruit and vegetables.

1. Make a list. It may seem obvious, but making a list and sticking to it can work wonders when you actually come face-to-face with your favorite brand of cookies. Include things like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and head for the checkout once every item is checked off.
2. Check the nutrition labels. Even if something is labeled “low-fat” or “all natural,” you should still check the nutrition labels on pre-packaged food items to make sure that there aren’t any unwelcome or unnatural surprises.
3. Purchase at least half whole grains. Replacing only half of your bread or cereal intake with whole grain alternatives can make a big difference in your health. Make sure that these products say “100% whole grain” on the label.
4. Choose healthier dairy products. Switch out your usual full fat milk, yogurt, and cheese with non-fat or low-fat options.
5. Shop for lean meats. Instead of purchasing hamburgers or sausages, go for lean meats like turkey, fresh fish, and skinless chicken breast.
6. Snack smarter. If you love to have snacks on hand, grab a bag of unsalted nuts or some dried fruit for a quick boost.

Try These Tips for Heart-Healthy Grocery Shopping [American Heart Association]
27 Foods to Ban From Your Shopping Cart [Reader’s Digest]
Build a Healthy Diet with Smart Shopping [Nutrition.gov]
Healthy Grocery Shopping [Medline Plus]

CC-BY-SA-2.0/Flickr/Migle