Stuffed Acorn Squash with Rice and Lentils

Stuffed Acorn Squash with Rice and Lentils is a hearty and nutritious dish that beautifully combines the natural sweetness of acorn squash with a savory filling of seasoned rice and protein-packed lentils. This vibrant, plant-based meal is perfect for a comforting dinner and is full of flavor and texture.

Ingredients

• Acorn squash - 1 medium (about 450g)
• Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
• Onion - 1 small, diced (about 100g)
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Carrot - 1 medium, diced (about 70g)
• Celery - 1 stalk, diced (about 50g)
• Cooked brown rice - 1/2 cup (about 90g)
• Cooked green lentils - 1/2 cup (about 100g)
• Dried thyme - 1 teaspoon
• Dried oregano - 1 teaspoon
• Salt - 1/2 teaspoon
• Black pepper - 1/4 teaspoon
• Vegetable broth - 1/2 cup (about 120ml)
• Fresh parsley - 2 tablespoons, chopped (for garnish)

Steps

1. Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F).
2. Cut the acorn squash in half lengthwise and scoop out 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 lined with parchment paper. Roast in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until tender.
4. While the squash is roasting, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion, garlic, carrot, and celery; sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
5. Stir in the cooked brown rice, cooked lentils, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Add the vegetable broth and mix well. Cook for another 5 minutes until heated through.
6. Once the acorn squash is done roasting, remove it from the oven and carefully flip it over. Fill each half generously with the rice and lentil mixture.
7. Return the stuffed squash to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until everything is heated through and the tops are slightly golden.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Nutrition

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 12 g
• Carbs: 55 g
• Fiber: 12 g
• Sugar: 6 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 which aids in digestion.
• High in plant-based protein from lentils, promoting muscle health.

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