Stuffed Acorn Squash with Apples and Raisins – Recipe

stuffed acorn squash apples-raisins

As the crisp air of autumn descends, there’s nothing quite like indulging in a warm and hearty dish that captures the essence of the season. Enter the Stuffed Acorn Squash with Apples and Raisins – a culinary masterpiece that marries the earthiness of acorn squash with the sweet tang of apples and the delightful chewiness of raisins. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a symphony of flavors, making it an ideal addition to your fall recipe repertoire.

A Fusion of Autumnal Elements

acorn

The Stuffed Acorn Squash with Apples and Raisins brings together the finest elements of fall’s bounty. Picture this: tender roasted acorn squash, its natural sweetness enhanced by a drizzle of olive oil, seasoned to perfection with a pinch of salt and pepper. But the true magic happens when this canvas is filled with a stuffing that dances on your taste buds.

The Stuffing: A Dance of Sweet and Savory

In a sauté pan, a medley of finely chopped onions and minced garlic takes center stage. As they sizzle and release their aromatic notes, diced apples join the performance, their flavors intertwining with the sweetness of raisins. A sprinkle of dried thyme and sage adds depth, infusing the stuffing with a fragrant warmth that epitomizes the season. The combination of textures – the tender apples, the chewy raisins – is a delightful contrast that keeps you coming back for more.

stuffed acorn squash apples-raisins

Stuffed Acorn Squash with Apples and Raisins – Recipe

Indulge in the symphony of flavors with our captivating recipe for Stuffed Acorn Squash with Apples and Raisins. The tender embrace of acorn squash, harmonizing with the sweetness of apples and the playful intrigue of raisins, creates an exquisite dish that effortlessly marries comfort and elegance. This recipe, a bewitching blend of nature's finest, promises to adorn your table with a touch of autumnal enchantment.
5 from 2 votes
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 3 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 medium acorn squashes
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 cup diced apple such as Granny Smith
  • 1/2 cup diced onion
  • 1/2 cup celery finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup raisins
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground sage
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese optional
  • Honey for drizzling (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Cut the acorn squashes in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
  • Brush the flesh of the squashes with olive oil and sprinkle with a pinch of salt. Place them on a baking sheet, flesh-side down, and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the flesh is tender when pierced with a fork.
  • While the squashes are baking, prepare the stuffing. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
  • Add the diced apple, onion, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are softened and the apples are slightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes.
  • Stir in the raisins, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground sage, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  • Remove the skillet from heat and fold in the cooked quinoa, chopped walnuts, and fresh parsley. Mix well to combine.
  • Once the squashes are tender, carefully flip them over on the baking sheet, flesh-side up.
  • Divide the stuffing mixture among the squash halves, gently pressing it down.
  • If using, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the stuffed squashes.
  • Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, until the stuffing is heated through and the cheese is melted and golden.
  • Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
  • Drizzle with honey for a delightful touch of sweetness, if desired.

Notes

Tips:
  • Customize the recipe by adding cranberries, chopped pecans, or cooked sausage to the stuffing.
  • For a vegan version, omit the Parmesan cheese and drizzle with maple syrup instead of honey.
Keyword acorn squash, apples, raisinis

FAQs on Stuffed Acorn Squash with Apples and Raisins – Recipe

Can I use a different type of squash?

While acorn squash works best for this recipe due to its size and flavor, you can experiment with other small squash varieties like delicata or sweet dumpling.

Is the Parmesan cheese necessary?

No, the cheese is optional. It adds a savory note, but the dish is still delicious without it.

Can I make the stuffing in advance?

Absolutely! Prepare the stuffing a day ahead, store it in the refrigerator, and then fill the squash before baking.

Is the quinoa measurement for cooked or uncooked quinoa?

The quinoa measurement is for cooked quinoa. Make sure to cook it according to package instructions before using it in the recipe.

Can I use brown rice instead of quinoa?

Certainly! Brown rice can be a suitable substitute for quinoa in this recipe, offering a slightly different texture.

2 responses to “Stuffed Acorn Squash with Apples and Raisins – Recipe”

  1. Manny Ri Avatar
    Manny Ri

    5 stars
    Those are delicious and juicy stuffed for the acorn squash.

  2. Nina Surresh Avatar
    Nina Surresh

    5 stars
    The balance of the flavor is really refreshing and delicous. Love it.

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