Try this delicious and healthy vegetarian stuffed acorn squash recipe that is perfect for a cozy dinner or Thanksgiving feast. Stuffed with a flavorful mixture of quinoa, vegetables, and cheese, these roasted acorn squash halves are a nutritious and satisfying meal. With a preparation time of just 45 minutes, this recipe is sure to please vegetarians and meat-lovers alike.
Ingredients
- 2 acorn squash
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cut the acorn squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds and fibers. Place the hollowed-out squash halves on a baking sheet, cut side up.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the quinoa and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the quinoa is cooked and the broth is absorbed.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic and cook until they are fragrant and translucent.
- Add the diced bell pepper, zucchini, mushrooms, thyme leaves, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the cooked quinoa. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
- Scoop the quinoa mixture into the hollowed-out squash halves, dividing it evenly between them.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese over the stuffed squash.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the squash is tender and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
- Enjoy the flavorful and nutritious vegetarian stuffed acorn squash as a main course or side dish!
Interesting Facts
Acorn squash is a winter squash variety that is rich in vitamins A, C, and B6, as well as dietary fiber and potassium.
Quinoa is a gluten-free grain-like seed that is a complete source of protein, containing all nine essential amino acids.
This recipe can be easily customized by adding or substituting different vegetables or cheeses according to personal preference.