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Nutritious Stuffed Butternut Squash

A delicious twist on tradition, this stuffed butternut squash is a hearty and healthy dish filled with quinoa, beans, and spices, making it perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Vegetarian
Calories: 330

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 medium butternut squash Firm and heavy for sweetness
  • 1 cup quinoa Rinsed
  • 2 cups vegetable broth Alternatively use water
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans Drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup corn Fresh, frozen, or canned
  • 1 piece bell pepper Diced
  • 1 medium onion Diced
  • 2 cloves garlic Minced
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • for garnish fresh cilantro or parsley

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Drizzle with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then place the halves cut-side down on a baking sheet. Roast for about 30-35 minutes, until fork-tender.
Cooking Quinoa and Sautéing Vegetables
  1. In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, cover, and reduce to a simmer. Cook for about 15 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and quinoa is fluffy.
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté diced onion and bell pepper in a little olive oil for about 5-7 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper, then stir for another minute.
Combining Filling and Stuffing
  1. In a large bowl, mix cooked quinoa, sautéed vegetables, black beans, and corn. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  2. Once the squash is roasted, flip the halves cut-side up. Generously fill each half with the prepared quinoa mixture.
Final Bake and Serving
  1. Return the stuffed squash to the oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes until heated through, and the tops are slightly golden.
  2. Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley, and serve warm.

Notes

For leftovers, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes. Can also be frozen for up to 2 months.