Stuffed Acorn Squash with Quinoa

Stuffed Acorn Squash with Quinoa is a vibrant and nutritious dish, perfect for a healthy American lunch. The sweet and nutty flavor of roasted acorn squash pairs beautifully with a savory quinoa filling, creating a wholesome meal that's both satisfying and delicious.

Stuffed Acorn Squash with Quinoa
45 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
American
350 kcal

Ingredients

  • Acorn squash - 1 medium
  • Quinoa - 1/2 cup (uncooked)
  • Vegetable broth - 1 cup
  • Black beans - 1/2 cup (canned, rinsed and drained)
  • Corn - 1/2 cup (frozen or canned)
  • Red bell pepper - 1/2, diced
  • Green onion - 2, sliced
  • Cumin - 1 tsp
  • Chili powder - 1 tsp
  • Olive oil - 1 tbsp
  • Salt - to taste
  • Pepper - to taste
  • Fresh cilantro - for garnish

Steps

  1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
  2. Cut the acorn squash in half and scoop out the seeds.
  3. Brush the inside 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 for about 25-30 minutes, or until tender.
  5. While the squash is roasting, rinse the quinoa under cold water.
  6. In a saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is fluffy and the liquid is absorbed.
  7. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, black beans, corn, diced red bell pepper, sliced green onion, cumin, chili powder, and additional salt and pepper to taste.
  8. Once the squash is done roasting, remove it from the oven and carefully turn the halves cut-side up.
  9. Fill each squash half with the quinoa mixture, packing it lightly.
  10. Return the stuffed squash to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes to heat through.
  11. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Nutrition

  • Calories: 350
  • Protein: 12 g
  • Carbs: 60 g
  • Fiber: 12 g
  • Sugar: 5 g
  • Sodium: 300 mg
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg
  • Total Fat: 7 g
  • Saturated Fat: 1 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
  • Water: 0.3 L

Health Benefits

  • High in dietary fiber, promoting digestive health.
  • Rich in antioxidants and vitamins, supporting overall wellness.

Tags

AmericanHealthyLunch