Holiday Delight: Healthy Stuffed Butternut Squash with Quinoa and Cranberries
Meal Prep and Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Grams per Serving: Approximately 250 grams
Ingredients Checklist
For the Butternut Squash
For the Filling
Optional Garnishes
Instructions
- Prepare the Squash
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the halved butternut squashes cut-side up on a baking sheet. Brush with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until the flesh is tender.
- Cook the Quinoa
- While the squash is roasting, cook the quinoa. In a saucepan, combine quinoa and water or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the quinoa absorbs all the liquid. Fluff with a fork.
- Prepare the Filling
- In a bowl, mix cooked quinoa with cranberries, pecans, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Drizzle with the remaining olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Stuff the Squash
- Once the squash is roasted, scoop out a small portion of the flesh (around 1-2 tablespoons) to create a cavity for the filling. Mix the scooped-out flesh with the quinoa mixture, then stuff the squash halves with the filling.
- Final Roast
- Return the stuffed squash halves to the oven and roast for an additional 10 minutes.
- Serve
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve warm.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe is the perfect combination of taste, health, and aesthetics. The natural sweetness of butternut squash complements the tangy cranberries and the crunch of pecans. It’s easy to prepare, yet sophisticated enough for holiday gatherings or a cozy dinner at home.
Healthy Aspect
Stuffed butternut squash is packed with vitamins, fiber, and plant-based protein. It’s low in unhealthy fats, high in antioxidants, and provides a great balance of carbohydrates and healthy fats, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal.
Nutritional Information – Per 100g
| Calories | Protein (g) | Carbohydrates (g) | Fiber (g) | Sugars (g) | Fat (g) | Saturated Fat (g) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 120 | 3.5 | 20 | 3 | 6 | 4 | 1 |
Enjoy this vibrant and wholesome dish that will brighten up any table!