Oh my goodness, let me tell you about stuffed delicata squash! This dish is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s packed with flavor and nutrition, making it a go-to for cozy dinners and meal prep alike. I first discovered this gem during a chilly autumn day, and since then, it’s become a staple in my kitchen. The tender, sweet flesh of the delicata squash pairs beautifully with the savory filling of quinoa, black beans, and spices. Trust me, when you take that first bite, you’ll be in love with the warm, comforting flavors! Plus, it’s so easy to customize with whatever ingredients you have on hand. You’ll definitely want to keep this recipe close!
Ingredients
For the most delicious stuffed delicata squash, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 medium delicata squash
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn, frozen or fresh
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional, but oh-so-good)
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
These ingredients not only combine for a hearty meal but also bring a rainbow of colors and flavors to your plate. Feel free to swap in any of your favorites!
How to Prepare Stuffed Delicata Squash
Making stuffed delicata squash is a breeze, and I promise you’ll love every step of the process! Let’s dive in and get that oven preheated so you can enjoy this delicious dish.
Preheat and Prepare the Squash
First things first, go ahead and preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that’s warming up, grab your lovely delicata squash. Slice them in half lengthwise and scoop out those seeds—don’t worry, it’s super easy! I like using a spoon to get the insides nice and clean. Once you have your squash halves ready, place them cut-side up on a baking sheet. Drizzle a little olive oil over them and sprinkle with salt and pepper. This little step makes all the difference in flavor! Bake those beauties for about 25-30 minutes until they’re tender and fragrant.
Make the Filling
While the squash is roasting, let’s whip up that filling! In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of cooked quinoa, 1 cup of black beans (make sure they’re drained and rinsed), and 1 cup of corn. Toss in your diced bell pepper, along with the cumin and chili powder. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste! Mix it all up until everything is well combined. I love how colorful and vibrant this mixture looks—it’s almost like a party in a bowl!
Stuff and Bake
Now, it’s time for the fun part—stuffing the squash! Take that delicious filling and generously pack it into each squash half. If you’re feeling indulgent, sprinkle some shredded cheese on top before returning them to the oven. Bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melty and bubbly. Wow! Your kitchen is about to smell amazing! Once they’re done, garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. Trust me, this dish is as delightful as it looks!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Deliciously sweet and savory flavor that warms your soul.
- Packed with nutritious ingredients like quinoa, black beans, and veggies.
- Perfect for meal prep—these make great leftovers!
- Simple to customize with your favorite ingredients or spices.
- Vegetarian-friendly, making it a great option for everyone!
- Quick to prepare—just roast, stuff, and bake!
This stuffed delicata squash is not only a feast for your taste buds but also a colorful addition to your dinner table. You’ll find that it’s a dish everyone can enjoy, making it a favorite in my home!
Tips for Success
To make your stuffed delicata squash truly shine, here are a few handy tips! First, don’t hesitate to customize the filling—swap the quinoa for brown rice or even farro for a different texture. You can also mix in your favorite veggies, like diced zucchini or spinach, to sneak in even more nutrition. If you’re a spice lover, add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for a kick! Make sure to watch the baking time closely; every oven is different, and you want that squash perfectly tender without losing its shape. And remember, these little beauties are just as delicious served at room temperature, so they’re fantastic for potlucks or meal prep!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to stuffed delicata squash, you’re not just treating your taste buds; you’re nourishing your body too! Typically, one stuffed half packs around 350 calories, making it a satisfying and guilt-free main course. You’ll also get about 10 grams of fat and 12 grams of protein, thanks to the quinoa and black beans. Plus, with around 55 grams of carbohydrates and a whopping 10 grams of fiber, this dish helps keep you feeling full and energized. Just keep in mind that nutrition can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so feel free to adjust as needed!
FAQ About Stuffed Delicata Squash
I’ve gathered some common questions about stuffed delicata squash that I think you might find helpful! Let’s dive into these FAQs and clear up any uncertainties.
Can I use other types of squash?
Absolutely! While delicata squash is a favorite for its sweet flavor and tender texture, you can easily swap it out for other varieties. Acorn squash and butternut squash both work wonderfully too! Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so check for tenderness as they bake.
How do I store leftovers?
Storing leftovers is super easy! Just place any uneaten stuffed squash in an airtight container and pop it in the fridge. They’ll last for about 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or you can use the microwave for a quicker option. Enjoy!
What can I substitute for quinoa?
If quinoa isn’t your thing, no worries! You can easily substitute it with cooked brown rice, farro, or even couscous for a different texture and flavor. Just make sure whatever you use is already cooked before mixing it into the filling!
Serving Suggestions
Stuffed delicata squash is a delightful main dish, but pairing it with the right sides can elevate your meal even further! I love serving it alongside a fresh green salad drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the sweetness of the squash. You could also whip up some roasted Brussels sprouts or garlic sautéed kale for a deliciously nutritious addition. If you’re in the mood for something heartier, consider a side of creamy mashed potatoes or a warm grain salad to complement the flavors. And for a cozy touch, don’t forget some crusty bread to soak up any leftover filling or sauce!
Print
Stuffed Delicata Squash: 5 Reasons to Fall in Love
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Stuffed delicata squash is a flavorful and nutritious dish that combines roasted squash with a savory filling.
Ingredients
- 2 medium delicata squash
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn, frozen or fresh
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Slice the delicata squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
- Place the squash halves cut-side up on a baking sheet.
- Drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until tender.
- In a bowl, mix the quinoa, black beans, corn, bell pepper, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Fill each squash half with the quinoa mixture.
- If using, top with shredded cheese.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Notes
- Feel free to customize the filling with your favorite ingredients.
- This dish can be served warm or at room temperature.
- Great for meal prep and leftovers.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed half
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: stuffed delicata squash, vegetarian recipes, healthy meals
