Name: Stuffed Acorn Squash with Quinoa & Cranberries Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 medium acorn squash (about 1 lb each); 1 cup quinoa; 2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth; 1 cup dried cranberries (unsweetened); 2 cups fresh spinach (chopped); 1 small onion (diced); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 2 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper (to taste); ¼ cup pine nuts (optional, toasted)

Stuffed Acorn Squash with Quinoa & Cranberries is an autumn favorite that warms the heart and delights the palate. This dish combines tender roasted acorn squash with a savory filling of quinoa, cranberries, and fresh spinach, offering a perfect blend of flavors and textures. Each bite is a celebration of fall, showcasing the seasonal ingredients that make this dish a must-try. Whether for a family dinner or a holiday feast, this stuffed acorn squash recipe is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Stuffed Acorn Squash with

This dish is more than just a pretty presentation; it’s packed with nutritional benefits and flavor. Here are a few reasons to love it:

It’s a delicious way to enjoy vegetarian stuffed acorn squash that everyone will love.
Rich in fiber and protein, it offers healthy stuffed acorn squash options.
Perfect for fall celebrations, especially stuffed acorn squash for Thanksgiving.
It can easily be made gluten-free with the right quinoa.
Offers easy stuffed acorn squash recipes for any skill level.
Versatile enough to include your favorite spices for savory stuffed acorn squash.

Stuffed Acorn Squash with Quinoa & Cranberries Delight - Stuffed Acorn Squash with - main visual representation

Ingredients for Stuffed Acorn Squash with

Gather these items:

2 medium acorn squash (about 1 lb each)
1 cup quinoa
2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
1 cup dried cranberries (unsweetened)
2 cups fresh spinach (chopped)
1 small onion (diced)
3 cloves garlic (minced)
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper (to taste)
¼ cup pine nuts (optional, toasted)

How to Make Stuffed Acorn Squash with Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Halve and seed the acorn squashes, placing them cut-side up on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 2: Drizzle olive oil over the squash halves, season with salt and pepper, and roast for about 30-35 minutes until fork-tender.
Step 3: Rinse quinoa under cold water. In a saucepan, combine quinoa and vegetable broth; bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until liquid is absorbed.
Step 4: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté onion and garlic until translucent (about 5 minutes). Add spinach until wilted.
Step 5: Fluff cooked quinoa with a fork and mix in sautéed vegetables, cranberries, and pine nuts if using.
Step 6: Fill each roasted squash half generously with the quinoa mixture. Return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes to warm through.

Pro Tips for the Best Stuffed Acorn Squash with

Keep these in mind:

This dish can be served warm or at room temperature.
Feel free to add other nuts or seeds for extra crunch.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
For a kick, try adding some chili flakes or your favorite spices.

Best Ways to Serve Stuffed Acorn Squash with

When it comes to serving this delectable dish, consider:

A light salad with vinaigrette that complements the sweetness of the squash.
Pairing with roasted vegetables for a hearty meal.
Offering a side of cranberry sauce for an extra burst of flavor.

How to Store and Reheat Stuffed Acorn Squash with

Leftover stuffed acorn squash can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it back in the oven for 10-15 minutes at 350°F (175°C) or microwave until heated through. This makes it a great option for meal prep!

Frequently Asked Questions About Stuffed Acorn Squash with

What is stuffed acorn squash?

Stuffed acorn squash is a dish where halved acorn squashes are filled with a flavorful mixture, often including grains like quinoa, vegetables, nuts, and spices. It serves as a nutritious and hearty main course.

Can I make stuffed acorn squash with ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the quinoa filling ahead of time and stuff the acorn squash just before baking. This makes it an ideal dish for gatherings and meal prep!

How do I avoid common mistakes with stuffed acorn squash?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure the squash is fork-tender before removing it from the oven, and don’t overstuff, as the filling should still be moist and flavorful.

Variations of Stuffed Acorn Squash with You Can Try

There are numerous ways to change up this dish:

Add cooked sausage for a hearty twist on the traditional recipe.
Experiment with different grains like farro or barley for a unique flavor.
Incorporate more vegetables such as mushrooms or zucchini for added nutrition.
Create a vegan stuffed acorn squash by using plant-based ingredients throughout.

For more information on the nutritional benefits of quinoa, check out this Healthline article.

If you’re interested in gluten-free options, visit Gluten Free Living for more recipes.

For tips on how to roast vegetables, see this Serious Eats guide.

For more delicious recipes, check out this link, this one, and this.