Stuffed Acorn Squash with Rice and Lentils and Chickpeas and Quinoa and Lentils and Chickpeas

Stuffed acorn squash filled with a hearty mixture of rice, lentils, and chickpeas offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures. This kosher dish is not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect American dinner option.

Ingredients

• 2 acorn squashes - medium
• 1/2 cup quinoa - rinsed
• 1/2 cup brown rice - rinsed
• 1/2 cup cooked lentils - drained
• 1/2 cup canned chickpeas - drained and rinsed
• 1 small onion - diced
• 2 cloves garlic - minced
• 1 medium carrot - diced
• 1 tsp cumin - ground
• 1 tsp paprika - smoked
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/4 cup vegetable broth
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley - chopped

Steps

1. Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F).
2. Cut the acorn squashes in half and scoop out the seeds. Brush the insides with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Place them cut-side down on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes until tender.
3. In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa and brown rice with 1 1/4 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes until grains are cooked and water is absorbed.
4. In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, garlic, and carrot. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in the cooked lentils and chickpeas, along with cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well and cook for another 5 minutes.
6. Combine the cooked quinoa and brown rice with the lentil and chickpea mixture. Add vegetable broth and mix thoroughly.
7. Remove the acorn squashes from the oven and carefully flip them cut-side up. Spoon the rice and lentil mixture generously into each half of the squash.
8. Return the stuffed acorn squashes to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until heated through.
9. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Nutrition

• Calories: 480
• Protein: 15 g
• Carbs: 75 g
• Fiber: 18 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 fiber, promoting digestive health.
• High in plant-based protein, supporting muscle repair and growth.

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