The Ultimate Guide to Cooking Delicious, Well-Seasoned Stuffed Acorn Squash
Looking for a hearty, nutritious dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious? Stuffed acorn squash is the perfect solution! This recipe features roasted acorn squash filled with a savory mixture of grains and nuts, making it a delightful centerpiece for any meal. Let’s dive into the ingredients, cooking instructions, and some handy tips to ensure your stuffed acorn squash turns out perfectly every time.
Ingredients
For the Acorn Squash:
– 2 medium acorn squashes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the Filling:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa (or rice of your choice)
– ½ cup walnuts, chopped
– ½ cup dried cranberries (or raisins)
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried sage
– ½ teaspoon cinnamon
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons maple syrup (optional)
– ¼ cup vegetable broth (or more as needed)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Acorn Squash
1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice the Squash: Carefully cut the acorn squashes in half from stem to tip. Scoop out the seeds and stringy bits.
3. Season: Drizzle the inside of each half with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Roast: Place the squash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until tender.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
1. Sauté the Aromatics: In a skillet over medium heat, add a tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the diced onion until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, chopped walnuts, dried cranberries, sautéed onion and garlic, thyme, sage, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. If using, add the maple syrup and vegetable broth to moisten the mixture. Stir until well combined.
Step 3: Stuff the Squash
1. Fill the Squash: Carefully turn the roasted squash halves cut-side up. Spoon the filling mixture generously into each half, pressing down lightly to pack it in.
2. Bake Again: Return the stuffed squash to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, until heated through and the tops are slightly golden.
Step 4: Serve
1. Plate and Enjoy: Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Serve warm as a main dish or side.
Useful Side Tips
– Customize Your Filling: Feel free to swap out the grains or nuts based on your preferences. Brown rice, farro, or pecans work wonderfully!
– Make Ahead: You can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just stuff the squash and bake when you’re ready to serve.
– Garnish: Consider garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or a sprinkle of feta cheese for added flavor.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Based on 4 Servings)
– Calories: Approximately 300
– Protein: 8g
– Carbohydrates: 45g
– Fat: 12g
– Fiber: 7g
Stuffed acorn squash is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delicious and nutritious meal. It’s perfect for fall gatherings, holiday dinners, or any time you want to enjoy a comforting dish.
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