Squash Stuffed with Quinoa Recipe

Squash Stuffed with Quinoa Recipe – Healthy Fall Dinner Idea

Celebrate the flavors of fall with this deliciously hearty, vegetarian-friendly dish! This Squash Stuffed with Quinoa is the perfect blend of sweet, savory, and spiced flavors, making it a great option for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even holiday feasts like Thanksgiving!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ Hearty & Filling – Packed with protein-rich quinoa and roasted squash.
✔ Warm Fall Flavors – Cinnamon, curry, and maple syrup bring seasonal warmth.
✔ Nutrient-Dense – Loaded with fiber, antioxidants, and plant-based protein.
✔ Great for Meal Prep – Make ahead and reheat for a quick, nutritious meal.
✔ Perfect for Holidays – A beautiful, crowd-pleasing dish for Thanksgiving or Friendsgiving!

Ingredients for Squash Stuffed with Quinoa

For the Squash:

• 2 medium acorn squash

• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar

• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

• 2 tbsp pure maple syrup

• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

For the Quinoa Filling:

• 1 small onion, chopped

• 1 cup red quinoa

• ½ tsp curry powder

• ½ tsp ground cinnamon

• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper

• ¼ cup dried cranberries

• 1 cup fresh parsley leaves, chopped

• ¼ cup roasted and shelled pistachios, coarsely chopped

• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven & Prepare the Squash

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Cut each acorn squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
• Place squash halves flesh-side up in a large baking dish.

📌 Tip: Save the seeds! Roast them for a crunchy, nutritious snack.

Step 2: Season & Roast the Squash

1. In a cup, whisk together:
   • Apple cider vinegar
   • 2 tbsp olive oil
   • Maple syrup
2. Brush the flesh side of the squash with the maple mixture.
3. Season with salt & pepper, then place squash flesh-side down in the baking dish.
4. Brush the skin side with more maple mixture and season again.
5. Roast for 35–40 minutes, or until the squash is fork-tender.

📌 Tip: Test doneness by piercing with a fork—it should slide in easily!

Step 3: Prepare the Quinoa Filling

1. In a medium saucepan, heat 1 tsp olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onions and sauté until soft and golden brown.
3. Stir in:
   • Quinoa
   • Curry powder, cinnamon, cayenne
   • 1 tsp salt
4. Toast the quinoa and spices for 1 minute to enhance their flavors.
5. Add 2 cups water, bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15 minutes.
6. Once done, remove from heat, let sit for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
7. Stir in:
   • Dried cranberries
   • Remaining maple mixture
   • ½ cup chopped parsley
   • ½ the pistachios

📌 Tip: Let quinoa absorb the flavors for 5 extra minutes before stuffing!

Step 4: Stuff the Squash & Serve

• Flip squash halves flesh-side up.
• Stuff each half generously with quinoa filling.
• Sprinkle with remaining parsley and pistachios.
• Serve warm or at room temperature.

📌 Tip: Drizzle with extra maple syrup or a squeeze of lemon before serving! 

Serving Suggestions

• As a Main Dish: Serve with a simple green salad or roasted veggies.
• As a Side Dish: Pair with grilled chicken, turkey, or salmon.
• With Bread: Enjoy with a warm slice of crusty sourdough or cornbread.
• Topping Idea: Add crumbled feta or goat cheese for a creamy contrast!

Variations & Substitutions

🔹 Make It Vegan & Gluten-Free: This dish is naturally vegan and gluten-free—just ensure toppings remain dairy-free.
🔹 Switch the Nuts: Try pecans, walnuts, almonds, or sunflower seeds instead of pistachios.
🔹 Add More Protein: Mix in chickpeas, lentils, or chopped tofu for extra protein.
🔹 Try Another Squash: Swap acorn squash for butternut, delicata, or spaghetti squash.
🔹 Spicy Kick: Add more cayenne or a dash of smoked paprika!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the quinoa filling and roast the squash a day ahead. Store separately, then assemble and reheat before serving.

📌 Tip: Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes before serving.

Q2: What can I substitute for acorn squash?

If you can't find acorn squash, butternut squash or delicata squash work well. Adjust roasting time accordingly:

• Butternut Squash: Roast for 45–50 minutes.
• Delicata Squash: Roast for 20–25 minutes.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Reheat in the microwave for 1–2 minutes or in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes.

📌 Tip: Leftovers taste even better the next day as flavors meld!