Stuffed Acorn Squash

Stuffed Acorn Squash is a delightful and nutritious dish that combines the natural sweetness of roasted acorn squash with a savory filling of spiced ground turkey and vegetables. This Paleo Indian-inspired lunch is not only satisfying but also packed with flavor and health benefits.

Stuffed Acorn Squash
50 minutes
Difficulty: Medium
Indian
350 kcal

Ingredients

  • Acorn Squash - 1 medium
  • Ground Turkey - 250 grams
  • Onion - 1 small, diced
  • Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
  • Fresh Spinach - 50 grams, chopped
  • Coconut Oil - 1 tablespoon
  • Cumin - 1 teaspoon
  • Coriander - 1 teaspoon
  • Turmeric - 1/2 teaspoon
  • Salt - 1/2 teaspoon
  • Black Pepper - 1/4 teaspoon
  • Chili Powder - 1/2 teaspoon (optional)
  • Fresh Cilantro - 2 tablespoons, chopped (for garnish)

Steps

  1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
  2. Cut the acorn squash in half and scoop out the seeds. Brush the cut sides with coconut 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 until tender.
  4. While the squash is roasting, heat the coconut oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
  5. Add the ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
  6. Stir in the chopped spinach, cumin, coriander, turmeric, salt, black pepper, and chili powder (if using). Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach is wilted and everything is well combined.
  7. Remove the squash from the oven and carefully flip the halves cut-side up. Spoon the turkey and spinach mixture evenly into each half.
  8. Return the stuffed squash to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until heated through.
  9. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Nutrition

  • Calories: 350
  • Protein: 30 g
  • Carbs: 30 g
  • Fiber: 6 g
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 400 mg
  • Cholesterol: 85 mg
  • Total Fat: 15 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
  • Water: 0.4 L

Health Benefits

  • Rich in vitamins A and C from the acorn squash, supporting immune health.
  • High in protein and low in carbs, making it suitable for a Paleo diet.

Tags

IndianPaleoLunch