Savory Vegan Stuffed Acorn Squash: A Beautiful and Flavorful Dish

Cooking Time:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Servings:

• Serves 4

This Savory Vegan Stuffed Acorn Squash is a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, making it a delightful and nutritious meal. Filled with a hearty mixture of quinoa, vegetables, and nuts, this dish is as beautiful as it is delicious. Let’s dive into the recipe and create this wonderful dish!

Ingredients:

For the Squash:

• 2 acorn squashes, halved and seeded
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Filling:

• 1 cup of quinoa, rinsed
• 2 cups of vegetable broth
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 apple, peeled and diced
• 1 cup of kale or spinach, chopped
• 1/2 cup of dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup of chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
• 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon of dried sage
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil

For Garnish:

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Pomegranate seeds (optional)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Squash

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Drizzle the olive oil over the cut sides of the acorn squash halves and season with salt and pepper.
3. Place the squash halves cut side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the squash is tender when pierced with a fork. Set aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Cook the Quinoa

1. While the squash is roasting, combine the quinoa and vegetable broth in a medium saucepan.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer, covered, for 15-20 minutes, or until the quinoa is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
3. Fluff the quinoa with a fork and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and diced apple, and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in the chopped kale or spinach, dried cranberries, chopped nuts, dried thyme, and dried sage. Cook until the greens are wilted and everything is heated through, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in the cooked quinoa and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Stuff the Squash

1. Turn the roasted squash halves cut side up and fill each half with the quinoa mixture.
2. Return the stuffed squash to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until everything is heated through.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

1. Remove the stuffed squash from the oven and let it cool slightly.
2. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and pomegranate seeds if desired.
3. Serve hot and enjoy this beautiful and flavorful dish!

Tips and Variations:

• Different Grains: Substitute quinoa with rice, farro, or bulgur for a different texture.
• Extra Protein: Add some cooked chickpeas or lentils to the filling for added protein.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling for some heat.

This Savory Vegan Stuffed Acorn Squash is a wonderful way to enjoy a nutritious and comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the rich and savory flavors of this delightful dish. Happy cooking!