Stuffed Acorn Squash
Some people like watching videos instead of reading. So we’ve added videos to help you out.
Get ready to enjoy Stuffed Acorn Squash. It brings warmth and joy to each meal. This dish is made of roasted acorn squash. It’s topped with quinoa, cranberries, and cheese. It’s perfect for holiday dinners or a cozy night at home.
Eating this meal turns any evening into a party. It’s easy and fun to make. Just cook the quinoa and roast the squash. Then, bake them together. You’ll love the mix of quinoa’s crunch and the squash’s softness. It makes a dish that looks good and tastes great.
Exact Ingredients (+ Possible Substitutes)
Getting ready to make your stuffed acorn squash? You’ll need some key ingredients. But, there are also choices if you want or need to change things up. Here’s what you’ll need.
- Medium-sized acorn squash
- Extra-virgin olive oil
- Sea salt
- Quinoa
- Dried cranberries
- Raw pepitas
- Green onions
- Flat-leaf parsley
- Garlic
- Lemon juice
- Parmesan and goat cheeses
For a tangier flavor, feta cheese can be substituted for goat cheese. If you aim to make a dairy-free stuffed squash, vegan sour cream and Parmesan alternatives are perfect for a vegan twist.
Want to change up the stuffing? You can use rice or lentils instead of quinoa. This helps if you or your friends have different dietary needs. Adding chickpeas makes it even more nutritious.
Looking to mix things up even more? Maybe try dried cherries instead of cranberries. You can also switch pepitas for almonds or walnuts. With these swaps, your squash dish can be tasty and new.
Instructions
Start to bake acorn squash by heating the oven to 400°F. Put parchment paper on a baking sheet. Slice the squash in half and remove the seeds with a spoon. Coat the insides with olive oil, sprinkle with salt. Now, put the squash halves down on the sheet and cook for 25-30 minutes.
While the squash cooks, work on the filling. Cook the quinoa as the package says. Toast the pepitas in a pan until golden. Mix quinoa, pepitas, greens, lemon juice, and garlic in a bowl.
Now, stuff the roasted squash. Let it cool for a bit first. Add the mixture into each squash half. Top with Parmesan and goat cheese. Bake again for 10 minutes, until cheese melts.
Add fresh herbs before serving to make it tasty. This dish is great for holidays and everyday meals. It’s full of flavor and nutrients.
Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions
Acorn squash can be made in many ways to suit different tastes and events. For a meaty flavor, you could stuff it with sausage, veggies, and herbs. It’s a tasty and filling choice. If you want a bit of sweetness, add some apples. Nutmeg and allspice will make it feel like a holiday dish, great for vegetarians.
Just put leftovers in the fridge or freezer. Then, heat them when you’re hungry. To make it a full meal, add a green salad. Include fruits like pomegranates or apples for a popular serving suggestion.
Looking for vegetarian options? Try adding roasted Brussels sprouts or a quinoa salad. This makes the meal more interesting and nutritious. It’s perfect for any occasion, from holidays to regular family dinners.
