Lentil Walnut Acorn Squash (Printable)

Tender acorn squash halves filled with a hearty lentil and walnut blend, seasoned with herbs and spices.

# Components:

→ Squash

01 - 2 medium acorn squash, halved and seeded
02 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
03 - ½ teaspoon salt
04 - ¼ teaspoon black pepper

→ Filling

05 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
06 - 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
07 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
08 - 1 medium carrot, diced
09 - 1 celery stalk, diced
10 - 1 cup cooked green or brown lentils
11 - ½ cup walnuts, coarsely chopped
12 - ½ cup cooked quinoa or brown rice (optional)
13 - ¼ cup dried cranberries or raisins
14 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
15 - 1 teaspoon dried thyme
16 - ½ teaspoon ground cumin
17 - ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
18 - ½ teaspoon salt
19 - ¼ teaspoon black pepper

→ Garnish

20 - 2 tablespoons crumbled feta cheese or vegan alternative (optional)
21 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

# Method:

01 - Set oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - Brush cut sides of squash with olive oil; season with salt and pepper. Place cut side down on baking sheet and roast for 35 to 40 minutes until tender.
03 - Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook onion for 3 to 4 minutes until softened. Add garlic, carrot, and celery; cook for 5 minutes until tender.
04 - Stir in cooked lentils, walnuts, quinoa or rice if using, dried cranberries, parsley, thyme, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook 2 to 3 minutes to meld flavors. Remove from heat.
05 - Remove squash from oven and turn cut side up. Scoop out flesh leaving ½ inch border. Chop scooped flesh and fold into filling mixture.
06 - Fill each squash half generously with filling. Return to oven and bake 10 to 12 minutes until heated through and lightly golden on top.
07 - Top with feta cheese or vegan alternative and sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Hearty vegetarian main or festive side
  • Rich in flavor and nutrients
02 -
  • This recipe contains walnuts and optional dairy; check ingredient labels for allergens
  • Acorn squash stands up well to roasting and holds the filling without falling apart
03 -
  • Use pre-cooked lentils to save time
  • Toast walnuts lightly for enhanced flavor and crunch
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