Recipe: Quinoa and Chickpea Stuffed Acorn Squash

This recipe combines the heartiness of quinoa and chickpeas with the festive flavours of acorn squash, making it a flavourful and nutritious side dish.

Quinoa and Chickpea Stuffed Acorn Squash

Ingredients:

• 2 acorn squashes

• 1 cup quinoa, cooked according to package instructions

• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed

• 1/2 cup diced bell pepper (any color)

• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Optional: Crumbled feta or goat cheese for topping

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Prepare the Acorn Squash: Cut the acorn squashes in half lengthwise. Scoop out the seeds and create a hollow for the stuffing. Lightly brush the insides with a bit of olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Place the squash halves on a baking sheet, cut side down, and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they start to soften.

3. Prepare the Filling: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and diced bell pepper. Sauté until the bell pepper softens.

4. Add Quinoa, Chickpeas, and Spices: To the skillet, add cooked quinoa, chickpeas, ground cumin, paprika, and chopped parsley. Stir and cook for a few minutes until heated through.

5. Stuff the Squash: Remove the squash halves from the oven, and spoon the quinoa and chickpea mixture into each squash half.

6. Bake: Return the stuffed squash to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the squash is tender and the stuffing is slightly golden on top.

7. Optional Topping: If desired, sprinkle crumbled feta or goat cheese over the stuffed squash during the last few minutes of baking.

8. Serve: Once baked, remove from the oven, let them cool for a few minutes, then serve warm.

This Quinoa and Chickpea Stuffed Acorn Squash is a protein-packed, flavorful side dish that combines the earthy flavors of quinoa and chickpeas with the sweetness of acorn squash, making it an ideal addition to your Christmas meal.