Stuffed Acorn Squash with Quinoa
Highlighted under: Seasonal Dish Recipes
A delightful combination of roasted acorn squash filled with a savory quinoa mixture, perfect for a healthy meal or festive occasion.
Stuffed Acorn Squash with Quinoa is a wholesome dish that not only pleases the palate but also nourishes the body. This recipe combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the sweetness of roasted acorn squash, making it a perfect choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Nutritious and packed with flavor
- Vibrant presentation that impresses guests
- Versatile filling options to suit your taste
- Perfect for vegetarian and gluten-free diets
Nutritional Benefits of Acorn Squash
Acorn squash is a powerhouse of nutrition, offering a wealth of vitamins and minerals. It is particularly rich in vitamins A and C, which are essential for maintaining healthy skin and boosting the immune system. Additionally, the dietary fiber found in acorn squash aids in digestion and helps regulate blood sugar levels, making it a smart choice for those managing their weight or blood sugar.
The vibrant orange flesh of acorn squash is not just appealing but also indicates the presence of beta-carotene, an antioxidant that supports eye health. Incorporating this delicious vegetable into your meals can contribute to a balanced diet, while also providing a delightful taste experience.
Versatility of Quinoa
Quinoa is often hailed as a superfood due to its impressive nutritional profile. It is a complete protein, containing all nine essential amino acids, making it an excellent protein source for vegetarians and vegans. Additionally, quinoa is gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
In this stuffed acorn squash recipe, quinoa not only adds nutritional value but also a delightful texture. Its nutty flavor complements the sweetness of the roasted squash, creating a harmonious balance that makes this dish both satisfying and flavorful. You can easily customize the filling with other grains or legumes, depending on what you have on hand.
Perfect for Meal Prep
Stuffed acorn squash is an ideal dish for meal prepping. You can prepare the filling in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to eat, simply roast the acorn squash, stuff it with the mixture, and bake it. This not only saves time but also allows you to enjoy a nutritious meal on busy days.
These stuffed squashes can also be frozen after baking. Just let them cool completely, wrap them tightly, and store them in the freezer. When you’re craving a delicious homemade meal, you can reheat them in the oven or microwave for a quick and easy dinner.
Ingredients
For the Stuffed Acorn Squash
- 2 medium acorn squashes, halved and seeds removed
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
Prepare the Acorn Squash
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the acorn squashes in half and scoop out the seeds. Place them cut side up on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
Cook the Quinoa
In a saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until the quinoa is fluffy and the liquid is absorbed.
Prepare the Filling
In a skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until translucent. Stir in the bell pepper, black beans, cumin, chili powder, and cooked quinoa.
Stuff the Squash
Once the acorn squashes are roasted, remove them from the oven and carefully stuff each half with the quinoa mixture. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
Serve
Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. Enjoy your delicious stuffed acorn squash!
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your stuffed acorn squash, consider pairing it with a simple side salad. A fresh mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette can complement the rich flavors of the squash beautifully. This adds a refreshing contrast and boosts the overall nutritional value of your meal.
For a heartier option, serve it alongside roasted vegetables or a grain like brown rice or farro. This can make for a more filling plate, perfect for feeding a crowd or satisfying a hungry family.
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven to maintain the squash's texture and flavor. Alternatively, a microwave can be used for quick reheating, though the texture may vary slightly.
For longer storage, consider freezing the stuffed acorn squash. Wrap each half in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven for best results.
Customization Ideas
Feel free to customize the filling based on your preferences or what’s available in your pantry. You could swap out black beans for kidney beans or chickpeas, and add in your favorite vegetables like corn or spinach for extra flavor and nutrients.
Herbs and spices are also a great way to enhance the filling. Consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or thyme, or spices such as paprika or smoked paprika for a different flavor profile. This adaptability ensures that you can make this dish uniquely yours every time.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the quinoa filling in advance and stuff the squash just before baking.
→ Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, it is gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free vegetable broth.
→ What can I substitute for quinoa?
You can use rice, farro, or couscous as an alternative.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Stuffed Acorn Squash with Quinoa
A delightful combination of roasted acorn squash filled with a savory quinoa mixture, perfect for a healthy meal or festive occasion.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Seasonal Dish Recipes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Stuffed Acorn Squash
- 2 medium acorn squashes, halved and seeds removed
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the acorn squashes in half and scoop out the seeds. Place them cut side up on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Roast for about 25-30 minutes until tender.
In a saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until the quinoa is fluffy and the liquid is absorbed.
In a skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until translucent. Stir in the bell pepper, black beans, cumin, chili powder, and cooked quinoa. Season with salt and pepper, mix well, and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
Once the acorn squashes are roasted, remove them from the oven and carefully stuff each half with the quinoa mixture. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. Enjoy your delicious stuffed acorn squash!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 55g
- Dietary Fiber: 10g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 12g