Stuffed Baked Acorn Squash Recipe: A Fall Delicacy Worth Savoring

Introduction

As the leaves change and the air turns crisp, it’s time to embrace the flavors of autumn. One delightful way to do so is by preparing Stuffed Baked Acorn Squash. This recipe combines the earthy sweetness of acorn squash with a savory stuffing that’s sure to please your taste buds. Whether you’re looking for a cozy family dinner or a stunning side dish for Thanksgiving, this dish is perfect. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps to create this comforting and delicious recipe.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you start cooking, gather these ingredients:

For the Squash:

• 2 medium-sized acorn squash
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Stuffing:

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
• 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup chopped kale or spinach
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)

Cooking Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this delightful Stuffed Baked Acorn Squash:

Step 1: Prepare the Squash

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the acorn squash in half horizontally. Scoop out the seeds and stringy pulp from the center.
3. Brush the cut sides of the squash halves with olive oil and season with salt and black pepper.
4. Place the squash halves, cut side down, on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the squash is tender but still holds its shape.

Step 2: Cook the Quinoa

1. While the squash is baking, rinse and drain the quinoa.
2. In a saucepan, bring the vegetable or chicken broth to a boil.
3. Add the quinoa, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the quinoa is cooked and the liquid is absorbed. Fluff it with a fork.

Step 3: Prepare the Stuffing

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until they become fragrant and translucent, usually for about 2-3 minutes.
3. Stir in the diced red bell pepper and chopped kale or spinach. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
4. Add the cooked quinoa, dried cranberries, chopped pecans or walnuts, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together until well combined.
5. If desired, fold in the crumbled feta cheese for an extra layer of flavor.

Step 4: Stuff and Bake

1. Turn the baked acorn squash halves cut side up.
2. Fill each squash half with the prepared stuffing mixture, pressing it gently to pack it in.
3. Return the stuffed squash to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and the tops are slightly golden.

Conclusion

With its vibrant colors and harmonious flavors, Stuffed Baked Acorn Squash is a true celebration of autumn. Serve it as a main dish or a side, and watch as it becomes a seasonal favorite at your table. The blend of sweet and savory ingredients creates a perfect balance that’s both comforting and nutritious.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of squash?
   • While acorn squash is traditional for this recipe, you can experiment with other winter squash varieties, such as butternut or delicata, for a similar dish.
2. What can I use instead of quinoa?
   • You can substitute quinoa with rice, couscous, or bulgur if you prefer.
3. Is there a vegan version of this recipe?
   • Yes, you can make this recipe vegan by omitting the feta cheese or using a dairy-free alternative.
4. Can I prepare the stuffing in advance?
   • Absolutely! You can make the stuffing ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to stuff and bake the squash.
5. How can I make this dish more protein-rich?
   • To add more protein, consider incorporating cooked ground turkey, chicken, or tofu into the stuffing mixture.

Embrace the flavors of the season with this Stuffed Baked Acorn Squash Recipe. It’s a delightful way to enjoy the bounties of fall and share a memorable meal with loved ones.

Source: slimmingeats.com

Yield: 6

Baked Garlic Bread Dip

Print

Are you looking for the perfect appetizer that combines the irresistible flavors of garlic bread and a creamy dip? Look no further! Baked garlic bread dip is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings. This dip is ideal for parties, game nights, or any gathering where you want to serve something warm, cheesy, and full of flavor. Let’s dive into the recipe for this scrumptious appetizer.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 1 hour 15 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 heads garlic tops sliced off crosswise
• 2 shallots one end of each sliced off
• 8 ounces softened cream cheese
• 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 3 tablespoons minced parsley
• 2 tablespoons thinly sliced chives
• 6 ounces finely shredded mozzarella
• 6 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 375˚F. Place garlic heads and shallots over a sheet of foil and drizzle with oil. Season with salt and pepper.

• Wrap foil tightly around garlic and shallots and roast for about 1 hour. Remove from oven and allow garlic and shallots to cool, about 15 minutes before unwrapping foil.

• In a mixing bowl combine cream cheese, mayo, chives, parsley, and salt and pepper. Squeeze in garlic heads and shallots.

• Stir together until fully mashed together and mixture is smooth.

• Add 4 ounces of mozzarella and 4 tablespoons parmesan.

• Stir together.

• Pour mixture into a baking dish.

• Top with remaining mozzarella and parmesan.

• Bake for 15 minutes or until heated through and top is melted and bubbling.

• Transfer dip to broiler and broil for 1 minute or until browned on top. Serve with crackers and crostini.

Notes

The entire baked garlic bread dip can be prepped and assembled up to 3 days ahead of time.

Make dip as instructed until it’s topped with shredded cheeses, then tightly wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate. When ready to use unwrap and bake, adding an extra 5 minutes to the baking time.

Variations for Bake Garlic Bread Dip

• Swap the mozzarella out for some shredded gruyere or asiago cheese.
• Add some chopped dill or minced tarragon to the dip to add another layer of fresh herbaceous flavor.
• Stir some crispy cooked, chopped bacon into the dip before baking for an extra touch of salty goodness.
• Add some chopped (fresh or pickled) jalapeños into the dip, or stir in some hot sauce for some heat.
• Stir some fresh corn kernels into the dip for a touch of sweetness and added texture.

Nutrition Information:

Amount Per Serving: Calories: 337