Savory Stuffed Acorn Squash

Level

Home Cook

Time

60 min.

Serves

4

Ingredients

  • 2 acorn or delicata squash, halved lengthwise and seeds removed
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt & pepper, to taste

For the Filling

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • ½ onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 celery stalk, diced (optional)
  • 1 apple or pear, diced (optional, adds sweetness)
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa, wild rice, or brown rice
  • ½ cup chopped kale, spinach, or chard (lightly sautéed)
  • ¼ cup dried cranberries (or raisins)
  • ¼ cup toasted walnuts or pecans
  • ½ tsp thyme or sage (dried or fresh)
  • Salt & pepper, to taste
  • ¼ cup crumbled feta or goat cheese (optional)

Instructions

Step 1

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Brush squash halves with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and place cut-side down on a baking sheet. Roast 25–35 minutes, until tender.

Step 2

While squash roasts, prepare filling: Heat olive oil in a skillet, sauté onion, garlic, and celery until soft. Stir in apple/pear, greens, cooked grain, cranberries, nuts, and herbs. Cook 2–3 minutes, adjust seasoning.

Step 3

Turn squash halves cut-side up. Fill with the warm mixture. Sprinkle with cheese if using.

Step 4

Return to oven for 5–10 minutes to warm through and slightly melt cheese.

Step 5

Serve warm as a main dish or hearty side.

Tip: Add browned sausage, ground turkey, or lentils for extra protein.

More Recipes

Summer Pesto Potatoe Salad

15 minBeginner
A fresh and flavorful twist on the classic potato salad, this version is tossed in vibrant basil pesto, adding a delicious herbaceous depth to the creamy potatoes. Perfect for summer gatherings, BBQs, or as a s

Boiled Artichoke

45 minBeginner
Farm fresh artichoke with homemade dip as a light snack

Spinach, Asparagus & Strawberry Salad

10 minBeginner
Enjoy the flavors of spring with this fresh salad, featuring our handpicked, tender spinach leaves paired with protein.