When fall rolls around, I can’t help but get excited about all the cozy meals it inspires. One of my absolute favorites is Vegetarian Stuffed Acorn Squash. It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm embrace on a chilly evening. I discovered this recipe on a whim several years ago, trying to find a hearty, but healthy, option for a vegetarian friend coming over for dinner. Little did I know, it would become a seasonal tradition in my home. Whether you’re a long-time vegetarian or just looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, this dish, with its savory blend of quinoa, vegetables, and spices, all nestled in a sweet roasted acorn squash, is bound to delight. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make!
- 1 medium acorn squash, halved and seeded,
- 1 cup quinoa,
- 2 cups vegetable broth,
- 1 tablespoon olive oil,
- 1 small onion, diced,
- 2 cloves garlic, minced,
- 1 cup spinach, chopped,
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries,
- 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped,
- Salt and pepper to taste,
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme,
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the acorn squash halves on a baking sheet, cut side up. Brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes or until tender.
In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of vegetable broth to a boil. Add the quinoa, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until all the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
While the quinoa cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant, about 3 minutes. Stir in the spinach and cook until just wilted. Remove from heat.
In a large bowl, mix the cooked quinoa, sautéed vegetables, dried cranberries, walnuts, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well to combine.
Divide the quinoa mixture among the roasted squash halves. Return to the oven for about 10 minutes, just to heat everything through. Serve warm and enjoy your cozy, vegetarian delight!
Final words
There you have it, a simple yet incredibly satisfying dish perfect for a cozy night in or a festive autumnal dinner. Vegetarian Stuffed Acorn Squash not only tastes amazing but also makes for a stunning presentation that’s sure to impress your guests. Thank you for following along with this recipe. I hope it becomes a cherished part of your fall cooking repertoire as it has mine. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to explore other vegetarian delights on our site!
Tags
vegetarian stuffed acorn squash, acorn squash recipes, fall vegetarian recipes, healthy vegetarian dinner
