Stuffed Acorn Squash with Lentils and Spinach and Chickpeas and Lentils and Spinach

Stuffed Acorn Squash with Lentils, Spinach, and Chickpeas is a vibrant and hearty dish that combines the earthy flavors of lentils and chickpeas with the sweetness of roasted squash. This nutritious meal is perfect for a healthy midnight snack, providing a satisfying blend of textures and flavors.

Ingredients

• Acorn squash - 1 medium
• Lentils (green or brown) - 1/2 cup (90g)
• Chickpeas (canned, drained) - 1/2 cup (120g)
• Fresh spinach - 2 cups (60g)
• Onion - 1 small, diced
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Olive oil - 1 tablespoon (15ml)
• Vegetable broth - 1 cup (240ml)
• Cumin - 1 teaspoon (2g)
• Paprika - 1/2 teaspoon (1g)
• Salt - to taste
• Black pepper - to taste
• Fresh parsley - for garnish

Steps

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. Cut the acorn squash in half and scoop out the seeds. Drizzle the insides with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Place the squash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes until tender.
3. While the squash is roasting, rinse the lentils under cold water. In a saucepan, heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat, then add the diced onion and garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the rinsed lentils, vegetable broth, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper to the saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the lentils are cooked through and tender.
5. Stir in the chickpeas and fresh spinach, cooking until the spinach wilts, about 2-3 minutes. Adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Remove the roasted squash from the oven and fill each half with the lentil, chickpea, and spinach mixture.
7. Return the stuffed squash to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes to heat through.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Nutrition

• Calories: 370
• Protein: 15 g
• Carbs: 55 g
• Fiber: 15 g
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 320 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Total Fat: 8 g
• Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
• Water: 0.5 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in dietary fiber, promoting digestive health.
• High in plant-based protein, supporting muscle repair and growth.

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