A hearty and flavorful vegetarian dish featuring tender acorn squash roasted and stuffed with a savory quinoa and vegetable filling. Perfect for a cozy fall dinner.
Author:Leo Baker
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:50 minutes
Total Time:1 hour 5 minutes
Yield:4 servings
Category:Main Course
Method:Baking and Sautéing
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
2 medium acorn squash
1 tablespoon olive oil, plus more for drizzling
1 cup cooked quinoa
1/2 cup chopped onion
1/2 cup chopped bell pepper (any color)
1/4 cup chopped celery
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/4 teaspoon dried rosemary
Salt and black pepper to taste
1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Cut each acorn squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
Drizzle the cut sides of the squash with a little olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
Place the squash cut-side down on a baking sheet and roast for 30-40 minutes, or until tender.
While the squash is roasting, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and celery to the skillet. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
Add the minced garlic, thyme, and rosemary. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
Stir in the cooked quinoa, salt, and pepper. If using, add the chopped nuts.
Once the squash is tender, carefully flip the halves over.
Spoon the quinoa mixture generously into the cavities of the roasted squash.
Return the stuffed squash to the oven for another 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and the filling is warm.
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
You can use any cooked grain like rice or farro instead of quinoa.
Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms or spinach to the filling.
A sprinkle of cheese like Parmesan or Gruyere can be added before the final baking for extra flavor.
Nutrition
Serving Size:1 stuffed squash half
Calories:Approx. 350-400 (will vary based on optional ingredients)