Savory Stuffed Acorn Squash with Quinoa, Cranberries, and Pumpkin Seeds
The fall season brings a wonderful array of flavors, colors, and comforting dishes. Among the many delights of autumn, stuffed acorn squash stands out as a nutritious, delicious, and visually appealing centerpiece for any dinner table. This savory stuffed acorn squash recipe combines the earthiness of quinoa, the sweetness of cranberries, and the delightful crunch of pumpkin seeds, making it an ideal fall dish. Packed with nutrients and flavor, it’s a recipe that appeals to both vegetarians and meat-lovers alike.
A Symphony of Flavors
Acorn squash is not only aesthetically pleasing but also versatile in the kitchen. Its natural sweetness pairs well with a variety of ingredients, making it the perfect vessel for stuffing. The quinoa serves as a hearty base while cranberries add a touch of sweetness, and pumpkin seeds provide a satisfying crunch. Together, they create a dish that is rich in flavor and texture.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To prepare this scrumptious stuffed acorn squash, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 medium acorn squash, halved and seeds removed
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups vegetable broth or water
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Preparing the Acorn Squash
Start by preparing the acorn squash, which is the star of this dish. Follow these simple steps:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cut each acorn squash in half and remove the seeds using a spoon.
- Brush the insides of the squash with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Place the squash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until they are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
Cooking the Quinoa Filling
While the acorn squash is baking, it’s time to prepare the delicious filling. Here’s how:
- In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth (or water) to a boil.
- Add the rinsed quinoa, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa is fluffy and the liquid is absorbed.
- In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, around 5-7 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the dried cranberries, thyme, and cinnamon, and cook for an additional minute.
- Combine the cooked quinoa with the sautéed mixture and fold in the pumpkin seeds. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Stuffing the Acorn Squash
Now comes the fun part—stuffing the squash!
- Once the acorn squash is fully cooked, remove them from the oven and turn them cut-side up.
- Generously spoon the quinoa mixture into each acorn squash half, packing it in slightly.
- Return the stuffed squash to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the filling is heated through.
Serving Suggestions
After the stuffed acorn squash is done baking, it’s ready to be served! Consider these serving suggestions:
- Garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
- Pair it with a light salad for a complete meal.
- Serve as a side dish for roasted meats or as part of a vegetarian feast.
Nutritional Benefits
This savory stuffed acorn squash provides not only hearty flavors but also a wealth of nutritional benefits:
- Quinoa is a complete protein, offering all nine essential amino acids, making it an excellent meat alternative.
- Cranberries add antioxidants and are known for their health benefits, particularly for urinary tract health.
- Pumpkin seeds are a great source of magnesium, iron, and healthy fats.
Conclusion
Savory stuffed acorn squash with quinoa, cranberries, and pumpkin seeds is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s a delightful dish that embodies the essence of fall. Whether you’re looking for a healthy vegetarian meal or a unique holiday side dish, this recipe checks all the boxes. Easy to make, full of flavor, and packed with nutrients, it’s a dish that everyone at the table will enjoy. So go ahead, celebrate the season with this delicious recipe and savor the flavors of autumn!