Za'atar Acorn Squash Stuffed with Roasted Vegetables, Lentils & Quinoa

Show-Stopping Stuffed Acorn Squash: A Perfect Recipe for Cozy Dinners and Holiday Gatherings

Za'atar Acorn Squash Stuffed with Roasted Vegetables, Lentils & Quinoa

As the weather turns colder and the days grow shorter, there's nothing quite like a warm, hearty dish to bring comfort and joy to your table. Whether you're planning a cozy dinner for two or a festive holiday gathering, stuffed acorn squash is a show-stopping dish that will impress your guests and delight your taste buds. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of roasted acorn squash with a flavorful and nutritious filling of quinoa, lentils, and roasted vegetables, all seasoned with aromatic Za'atar seasoning. Here's how to make this delicious and visually stunning dish.

Ingredients:

2 medium acorn squashes, halved and seeds removed

2 tablespoons olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup quinoa, rinsed

1 cup cooked lentils

1 red bell pepper, diced

1 small onion, diced

2 garlic cloves, minced

1 small eggplant, diced

1 zucchini, diced

1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)

2 tablespoons Za'atar seasoning

Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Roast the Acorn Squash:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Place the acorn squash halves cut side up on a baking sheet.

Drizzle with olive oil and season with 1 tsp of Za'atar seasoning and salt and pepper.

Roast in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the squash is tender and easily pierced with a fork.

2. Prepare the Filling:

While the squash is roasting, prepare the filling. Cook the quinoa according to package instructions and set aside.

In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.

Add the diced bell pepper and onion. Sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.

Then add in the garlic, eggplant, and zucchini, cook for an additional 5 minutes. 

Add the diced tomatoes and cooked lentils to the skillet. Stir to combine.

Season the mixture with remaining Za'atar seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the flavors meld together.

Remove from heat and stir in the cooked quinoa.

3. Stuff the Squash:

Once the acorn squash halves are roasted and tender, remove them from the oven.

Spoon the quinoa and vegetable filling into each squash half, packing it in tightly.

Return the stuffed squash to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend and the top to brown slightly.

4. Serve and Garnish:

Remove the stuffed acorn squash from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.

Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.

Serve warm and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures.

Why This Recipe Works:

Stuffed acorn squash is not only visually appealing but also incredibly nutritious. Acorn squash is rich in vitamins A and C, potassium, and fiber, making it a healthy addition to your meal. The filling, made with quinoa, lentils, and roasted vegetables, is packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. The addition of Za'atar seasoning adds a fragrant and slightly tangy flavor that elevates the dish to a whole new level.

Tips and Variations:

Make It Ahead: You can prepare the filling and roast the squash ahead of time. When ready to serve, simply stuff the squash and bake until heated through.

Add More Protein: For a heartier meal, consider adding tofu or your favorite plant based protein to the filling.

Experiment with Seasonings: If you don't have Za'atar, feel free to use other seasonings like Italian herbs, cumin, lemon pepper or smoked paprika. And you can never go wrong with a Creole Seasoning blend! 😉

Stuffed acorn squash is a versatile and impressive dish that's perfect for any occasion. It's a fantastic way to showcase seasonal produce and enjoy a comforting, wholesome meal. Give this recipe a try, and you'll have a new favorite dish to add to your fall and winter repertoire. Enjoy! 🌿🍂🍴

Let's Geaux! Veg Out Daily & Eat More Plants!

Dr. Omilade

Veg Out Daily