Stuffed Acorn Squash with Lentils and Vegetables and Spices and Herbs

Stuffed acorn squash filled with a hearty mixture of lentils, vegetables, and aromatic spices, this dish offers a comforting and nutritious meal. Perfect for a cozy dinner, it combines seasonal flavors with wholesome ingredients to create a delightful and satisfying experience.

Ingredients

• 2 acorn squashes - medium
• 1 cup cooked lentils - 240 ml
• 1 small onion - diced
• 1 carrot - diced
• 1 celery stalk - diced
• 2 cloves garlic - minced
• 1 teaspoon olive oil - 5 ml
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin - 5 g
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika - 2 g
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme - 1 g
• Salt - to taste
• Black pepper - to taste
• 1/4 cup vegetable broth - 60 ml
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley - 15 g
• 1/4 cup walnuts - chopped (optional) - 30 g

Steps

1. Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F).
2. Cut the acorn squashes in half and scoop out the seeds.
3. Place the squash halves cut-side up on a baking sheet and brush with olive oil, then season with salt and pepper.
4. Roast the squash in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until tender.
5. In a skillet, heat 1 teaspoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrot, and celery, sautéing until softened, about 5 minutes.
6. Add minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
7. Stir in the cooked lentils and vegetable broth, mixing well. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until heated through.
8. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the chopped parsley and walnuts (if using).
9. Once the squash is roasted, fill each half with the lentil and vegetable mixture, packing it lightly.
10. Return the stuffed squashes to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
11. Serve warm, garnished with extra parsley if desired.

Nutrition

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 12 g
• Carbs: 55 g
• Fiber: 15 g
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 300 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Total Fat: 10 g
• Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
• Water: 0.5 L

Health Benefits

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

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