Stuffed Acorn Squash with Quinoa

Name: Stuffed Acorn Squash with Quinoa
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 acorn squashes, halved and seeds removed; 1 cup quinoa, rinsed; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup cooked black beans; 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen); 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon chili powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Vibrant Wellness Recipes

This Stuffed Acorn Squash with Quinoa is a delightful dish that brings warmth and nourishment to your table. Perfectly roasted acorn squash halves are filled with a savory quinoa mixture, making it a wholesome meal or a stunning side dish.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2025-12-12T18:46:17.578Z

Stuffed Acorn Squash with Quinoa is not just a dish; it's a celebration of fall flavors. The sweet, nutty taste of acorn squash perfectly complements the hearty quinoa filling, creating a harmony of textures and tastes that everyone will love. This dish is not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients, making it an excellent choice for your next family gathering or holiday feast.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Nutritious and filling, perfect for a wholesome meal
Beautiful presentation makes it ideal for entertaining
Versatile recipe that can be customized with your favorite ingredients

      

A Wholesome Delight

Stuffed Acorn Squash with Quinoa is not just a meal; it’s an experience that combines nutrition with flavor. The acorn squash offers a sweet and nutty taste, which pairs beautifully with the hearty quinoa filling. This dish is perfect for those who appreciate wholesome ingredients and vibrant flavors. Each bite brings a balance of textures, from the tender squash to the chewy quinoa and crisp vegetables. It’s a dish that nourishes the body and soul, making it a staple in healthy eating.

This recipe is a fantastic way to incorporate more plant-based ingredients into your diet. Quinoa is a complete protein, providing all nine essential amino acids, which makes this dish ideal for vegetarians and vegans alike. Combined with black beans and corn, you’re not only enjoying a delicious meal but also one that is packed with nutrients. This makes it a perfect choice for both lunch and dinner, keeping you satisfied and energized.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a cozy family meal, Stuffed Acorn Squash with Quinoa is sure to impress. Its beautiful presentation, with vibrant colors and inviting aromas, makes it a show-stopping centerpiece on any table. Guests will be drawn to the dish, eager to try this unique and flavorful offering. It’s a wonderful way to share healthy eating with friends and family without compromising on taste.

The versatility of this recipe is another reason to love it. Feel free to customize the filling according to your preferences or what you have on hand. You can add different vegetables, nuts, or seeds to enhance the flavor and texture. This adaptability allows you to create a new version of this dish each time you make it, ensuring it never gets boring and always meets your needs.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Ingredients

For the Stuffed Acorn Squash

2 acorn squashes, halved and seeds removed
1 cup quinoa, rinsed
2 cups vegetable broth
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup cooked black beans
1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Combine all the ingredients in a large bowl before stuffing the squash halves.

Instructions

Prepare the Acorn Squash

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the halved acorn squashes cut-side up on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and pepper.

Roast for about 25-30 minutes or until tender.

Cook the Quinoa Filling

In a saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Add the quinoa, reduce heat, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, cooking until translucent. Stir in the black beans, corn, cumin, chili powder, and cooked quinoa.

Season with salt and pepper.

Stuff the Squash

Once the squash is tender, remove from the oven. Fill each half with the quinoa mixture, pressing down gently. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes.

Serve

Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious stuffed acorn squash!

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Nutritional Information

Stuffed Acorn Squash with Quinoa is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. One serving provides a generous amount of fiber, which is essential for digestive health. The combination of quinoa and black beans makes this dish protein-rich, helping to keep you full longer and providing sustained energy throughout the day.

Additionally, acorn squash is rich in vitamins A and C, both of which are important for immune function and skin health. This dish is a great way to incorporate these vital nutrients into your diet while enjoying a satisfying meal. It’s a health-conscious choice that doesn’t skimp on flavor or satisfaction.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, consider pairing your stuffed acorn squash with a fresh side salad. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the squash perfectly. You could also serve it alongside roasted vegetables for additional texture and flavor, creating a well-rounded plate.

If you're looking to add some protein, grilled chicken or fish can be a fantastic side. This way, you can cater to both vegetarians and meat-lovers at your table. The stuffed squash can easily be the star of the show or a delightful side dish that enhances the entire meal experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes, this recipe is already vegan as it does not contain any animal products.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

→ Can I use other grains instead of quinoa?

Absolutely! You can substitute quinoa with rice, farro, or any grain of your choice.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free vegetable broth and ensure your other ingredients are gluten-free.