Autumn Harvest Quinoa-Stuffed Acorn Squash with Maple Tahini Drizzle
As the leaves turn golden and the air gets crisp, it’s the perfect time to celebrate the season with nourishing and delightful dishes. One recipe that perfectly embodies the essence of autumn is the Autumn Harvest Quinoa-Stuffed Acorn Squash with Maple Tahini Drizzle. This dish marries the sweet, nutty flavor of acorn squash with a hearty quinoa stuffing, not only creating a visually stunning centerpiece for your table but also a delicious and nutritious meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Seasonal Ingredients: Utilizing the best of fall produce, this recipe highlights acorn squash, which is naturally sweet and packed with nutrients.
- Healthy and Wholesome: Quinoa, a complete protein, combined with other wholesome ingredients makes this dish healthy without sacrificing flavor.
- Versatile: This recipe is perfect for a variety of dietary preferences, being gluten-free and easily adaptable for vegans.
- Impressive Presentation: Serve this dish at your next gathering, and it’s sure to impress your guests with its vibrant colors and beautiful presentation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create this comforting autumn dish, gather the following ingredients:
For the Stuffed Acorn Squash:
- 2 medium acorn squashes
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups vegetable broth (or water)
- 1 cup cooked chickpeas
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup kale or spinach, chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup walnuts or pecans, chopped (optional)
For the Maple Tahini Drizzle:
- 1/4 cup tahini
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons water (more if needed)
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt to taste
How to Make Autumn Harvest Quinoa-Stuffed Acorn Squash
Follow these easy steps to whip up this delicious dish that captures the spirit of fall.
Step 1: Prepare the Acorn Squash
- Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Halve the Squash: Cut the acorn squashes in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
- Roast the Squash: Place the squash halves cut side up on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Roast for about 30-35 minutes or until tender.
Step 2: Cook the Quinoa
- Rinse the Quinoa: In a fine mesh strainer, rinse the quinoa under cold water to remove the bitter coating.
- Cook the Quinoa: In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Add the rinsed quinoa, reduce the heat, and cover. Cook for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa is fluffy and the liquid has been absorbed.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
- Heat Oil: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: Add diced onions and cook until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add Greens and Spices: Stir in the chopped kale or spinach, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Cook until the greens are wilted.
Step 4: Combine Stuffing Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix together the cooked quinoa, sautéed vegetables, chickpeas, dried cranberries, and nuts (if using). Stir well to combine and taste for seasoning adjustments.
Step 5: Stuff the Squash
Spoon the quinoa mixture into each acorn squash half, pressing down gently to pack it in.
Step 6: Make the Maple Tahini Drizzle
In a small bowl, whisk together the tahini, maple syrup, lemon juice, and water until smooth. Adjust the consistency with more water if necessary, and season with salt to taste.
Serving Your Dish
Once your acorn squash is fully stuffed, return it to the oven for an additional 10 minutes to heat through. Serve warm, drizzled generously with maple tahini sauce.
Tips for Success
- Choose the Right Squash: Look for acorn squashes that feel heavy for their size and have a deep green color.
- Customize Your Stuffing: Feel free to add seasonal vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the stuffing a day in advance and stuff the squash just before baking for a quick weeknight meal.
Conclusion
The Autumn Harvest Quinoa-Stuffed Acorn Squash with Maple Tahini Drizzle is a delightful dish that encapsulates the flavors of the season. It’s satisfying, healthy, and perfect for family dinners or festive fall gatherings. Not only will it leave you feeling full and nourished, but it will also elevate your dinner table with its stunning presentation. So, gear up to enjoy the bounty of fall with this delicious recipe!