Stuffed Acorn Squash

A classic fall meal, stuffed acorn squash presents a lovely combination of the natural sweetness of the squash and savory contents such as grains, meats, and veggies. This adaptable recipe serves as a healthy, filling supper in addition to being a visual feast. This article examines the countless ways to stuff acorn squash, including tasty combos and preparation advice.

Tasting Notes

The combination of sweet acorn squash, savory filling, and aromatic herbs creates a harmonious blend of flavors. The soft and slightly caramelized squash complements the hearty stuffing, making each bite a delightful experience.

Ingredients

• 2 acorn squashes
• 1 lb ground turkey
• 1 cup quinoa, cooked
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup spinach, chopped
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried sage
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for drizzling

Kitchen Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Sharp knife
• Large mixing bowl
• Saute pan
• Spoon
• Foil

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the acorn squashes in half and scoop out the seeds. Place them on a baking sheet.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the squash halves and season with salt and pepper.
4. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until the squash is tender.
5. While the squash is baking, heat olive oil in a saute pan over medium heat.
6. Add diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened.
7. Add ground turkey to the pan, breaking it apart and cooking until browned.
8. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked quinoa, sauteed turkey mixture, chopped spinach, dried cranberries, feta cheese, dried thyme, and dried sage. Mix well.
9. Once the squash halves are done baking, stuff them with the quinoa and turkey mixture.
10. Return the stuffed squash to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the stuffing to become golden brown.
11. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Stuffed Acorn Squash!

Pro Tips

• Customize the stuffing by adding chopped nuts or your favorite herbs for an extra layer of flavor.
• For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground turkey with plant-based protein like lentils or chickpeas.

Variations

• Experiment with different cheese options, such as goat cheese or cheddar, to add a unique twist to the stuffing.
• Try using wild rice instead of quinoa for a heartier texture.

FAQs