Stuffed Acorn Squash with Lentils and Spinach and Chickpeas and Lentils

Stuffed acorn squash filled with a savory mix of lentils, spinach, and chickpeas creates a hearty and nutritious dish perfect for a healthy midnight snack. This vibrant meal is not only delicious but also packed with plant-based protein and fiber.

Ingredients

• Acorn squash - 1 medium
• Green lentils - 1/2 cup (uncooked)
• Chickpeas - 1/2 cup (cooked or canned, rinsed and drained)
• Fresh spinach - 1 cup (chopped)
• Onion - 1 small (diced)
• Garlic - 2 cloves (minced)
• Olive oil - 1 tablespoon
• Vegetable broth - 1 cup
• Cumin - 1 teaspoon
• Paprika - 1/2 teaspoon
• Salt - 1/2 teaspoon
• Black pepper - 1/4 teaspoon
• Parmesan cheese - 2 tablespoons (optional, for serving)

Steps

1. Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F).
2. Cut the acorn squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
3. Brush the insides of the squash halves with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
4. Place the squash halves cut side down on a baking sheet and roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until tender.
5. While the squash is roasting, rinse the lentils under cold water and place them in a saucepan with the vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes until tender.
6. In a skillet, heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, sautéing until translucent (about 3-4 minutes).
7. Stir in the chopped spinach, cooked lentils, chickpeas, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring until the spinach is wilted.
8. Remove the roasted squash from the oven and carefully flip them cut side up. Fill each half with the lentil and spinach mixture.
9. Return the stuffed squash to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
10. Serve warm, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.

Nutrition

• Calories: 380
• Protein: 15 g
• Carbs: 58 g
• Fiber: 15 g
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 400 mg
• Cholesterol: 5 mg
• Total Fat: 10 g
• Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
• Water: 0.5 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in plant-based protein from lentils and chickpeas.
• High in fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy weight.

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