Stuffed Acorn Squash with Rice and Chickpeas

Stuffed Acorn Squash with Rice and Chickpeas is a hearty and nutritious dish that combines the natural sweetness of roasted acorn squash with a savory filling of seasoned rice and protein-packed chickpeas. This Kosher American dinner is not only visually stunning but also easy to prepare, making it perfect for a cozy evening meal.

Stuffed Acorn Squash with Rice and Chickpeas
50 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
American
400 kcal

Ingredients

  • Acorn squash - 2 medium
  • Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
  • Cooked rice - 1 cup (250 grams)
  • Canned chickpeas - 1 cup (240 grams), drained and rinsed
  • Onion - 1 small, diced
  • Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
  • Ground cumin - 1 teaspoon
  • Paprika - 1 teaspoon
  • Salt - 1/2 teaspoon
  • Black pepper - 1/4 teaspoon
  • Fresh parsley - 2 tablespoons, chopped
  • Vegetable broth - 1/2 cup (120 ml)
  • Feta cheese - 1/4 cup (30 grams), crumbled (optional for serving)

Steps

  1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
  2. Cut the acorn squash in half lengthwise and remove the seeds. Brush the insides with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
  3. Place the squash halves cut side down on a baking sheet and roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until tender.
  4. While the squash is roasting, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
  5. Stir in the cooked rice, chickpeas, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well and cook for another 5 minutes.
  6. Add the vegetable broth to the rice mixture, stir, and let it simmer for a few minutes until heated through. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped parsley.
  7. Once the squash is done, carefully turn the halves cut side up. Fill each half with the rice and chickpea mixture, pressing down lightly to pack it in.
  8. Return the stuffed squash to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
  9. Serve warm, topped with crumbled feta cheese if desired.

Nutrition

  • Calories: 400
  • Protein: 12 g
  • Carbs: 60 g
  • Fiber: 15 g
  • Sugar: 5 g
  • Sodium: 450 mg
  • Cholesterol: 10 mg
  • Total Fat: 12 g
  • Saturated Fat: 2 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Water: 0.5 L

Health Benefits

  • Rich in fiber, promoting digestive health.
  • High in protein from chickpeas, supporting muscle health.

Tags

AmericanKosherDinner