Stuffed Acorn Squash: A Delicious and Nutritious Meal

Stuffed acorn squash is a visually stunning and flavorful dish that’s perfect for cozy dinners or holiday celebrations. With its naturally sweet and tender flesh, acorn squash serves as an edible bowl for a hearty filling of grains, vegetables, and spices. This recipe is versatile and can be customized to suit various tastes and dietary preferences.

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Ingredients (Serves 4)

• For the squash:

  • 2 medium acorn squashes
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

• For the filling:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
  • 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa, rice, or couscous
  • 1/2 cup cooked chickpeas or black beans
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins
  • 1/3 cup chopped nuts (pecans, walnuts, or almonds)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Squash

   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
   • Cut the acorn squashes in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
   • Brush the cut sides with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Place the halves cut-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
   • Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the flesh is tender and can be easily pierced with a fork.

2. Make the Filling

   • Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat.
   • Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
   • Stir in the cooked quinoa (or your chosen grain), chickpeas, dried cranberries, chopped nuts, cinnamon, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), and salt and pepper. Mix well and cook for 2-3 minutes to heat through.

3. Stuff the Squash

   • Remove the squash from the oven and flip the halves cut-side up. Fill each squash cavity generously with the prepared filling.
   • Return the stuffed squash to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until heated through and slightly crispy on top.

4. Serve and Garnish

   • Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and flavor. Serve warm as a main course or a hearty side dish.

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Tips for Customization

• Add Protein: For a non-vegetarian option, add cooked sausage or shredded chicken to the filling.
• Cheesy Upgrade: Sprinkle shredded cheese or crumbled feta on top of the filling before the final bake for a creamy, melty finish.
• Herb Boost: Experiment with herbs like thyme, rosemary, or sage for added depth of flavor.

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Why You’ll Love It

Stuffed acorn squash is not only visually impressive but also packed with nutrients like fiber, vitamins, and healthy carbs. Its sweet, nutty flavor pairs beautifully with savory and spiced fillings, making it a versatile dish that’s as healthy as it is delicious.

Enjoy this comforting recipe for your next dinner or special occasion and savor every bite!