Easy Stuffed Acorn Squash with Wild Rice Recipe

Are you searching for a dish that beautifully embodies the essence of fall while being healthy, hearty, and absolutely delicious? Look no further! This easy Stuffed acorn squash with wild rice recipe is not only visually stunning but packed with flavors and textures that will warm your heart and fill your stomach. Acorn squash, with its sweet, nutty flavor, serves as the perfect vessel for a savory filling of wild rice, vegetables, nuts, and spices. This homemade stuffed acorn squash with wild rice from scratch captures the best of autumn’s harvest and is a fantastic addition to any dinner table.

Whether you are preparing a family gathering, an intimate dinner, or just looking for a nourishing meal, this dish fits the bill. It’s vegan, gluten-free, and can easily be adapted to suit various dietary needs. Plus, making it from scratch means you control the quality and taste of every component. Prepare yourself to impress friends and family with this flavorful and satisfying meal!

Recipe Overview:

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 40 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour

Serving Size: Serves 4

Ingredients

For the Stuffed Acorn Squash:

• 2 medium acorn squashes, halved and seeds removed
• 1 cup wild rice
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium carrot, diced
• 1 cup mushrooms, chopped
• 1 cup spinach, chopped
• ½ cup walnuts, chopped (or pecans for a sweeter flavor)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried sage
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for sautéing

For Garnish (optional):

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Vegan cheese (optional)

Possible Ingredient Substitutes:

• Use quinoa or brown rice instead of wild rice for a different texture.
• To make it gluten-free, ensure the vegetable broth is verified gluten-free.
• Swap walnuts with sunflower seeds or omit them for a nut-free version.
• For a richer flavor, muffin or squash can be replaced with sweet potato.
• Use almond milk instead of any dairy to keep the recipe vegan.

Equipment List

• Baking sheet
• Cooking pot (for rice)
• Skillet
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Aluminum foil (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). The warmth will be perfect for roasting the acorn squash and blending all flavors harmoniously.
2. Prepare the acorn squashes by cutting them in half lengthwise and removing the seeds. Brush the cut sides with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Place the halves cut side down on a baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the flesh is tender and slightly caramelized.
3. While the squash is roasting, rinse the wild rice under cold water. In a cooking pot, combine the wild rice with 2 cups of vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the grains have burst open. Drain excess liquid if necessary.
4. In a skillet, add a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is heated, add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, approximately 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic, diced carrot, and chopped mushrooms. Continue to sauté for another 5-7 minutes until vegetables are softened and fragrant.
5. Stir in the chopped spinach, walnuts, thyme, sage, and cooked wild rice into the skillet. Mix everything thoroughly and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
6. Carefully remove the roasted squash halves from the oven and flip them cut-side up. Using a spoon, gently fill each half with the wild rice mixture, packing it in generously.
7. If desired, sprinkle your choice of vegan cheese on top for an extra layer of flavor. Cover the baking sheet loosely with aluminum foil and return it to the oven for another 10-15 minutes to warm through and melt the cheese.
8. Remove from the oven, and let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy the delightful medley of flavors and textures in every bite!

Special Notes

• Leftover stuffed acorn squash can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
• To make the dish ahead of time, prepare the squash and rice mixture separately, and assemble them right before baking. This will ensure you have a fresh, warm meal ready quickly.
• If your filling turns out too dry, consider adding a splash of vegetable broth or olive oil to moisten it.

Variations and Customizations

• For a gluten-free version, you can use brown rice or a gluten-free grain mix in place of the wild rice.
• Switch up the vegetables in the filling — roasted bell peppers, zucchini, or even kale can add extra flavor and nutrients.
• For added protein, stir in cooked lentils or chickpeas into the filling mixture.
• Spice it up with crushed red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños for a kick of heat!

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 350 kcal
• Protein: 10 g
• Fat: 15 g
• Carbohydrates: 50 g
• Fiber: 8 g

Engaging Visual Details

As you prepare this dish, imagine the vibrant colors contrasting in your kitchen: the deep green of the acorn squash, the earthy browns of the wild rice, and the bright orange of diced carrots mingling together invitingly. Once roasted, the squash should have a beautifully golden caramelized exterior, with steam wafting up as you slice into it. With the savory aroma filling your space, every bite of the stuffed acorn squash will reveal a hearty and satisfying chorus of flavors, making it not just a meal but a delightful experience.

To enhance user experience, consider including step-by-step images or a short video demonstration from preparation through to the finished dish. Visuals can make the cooking process more accessible and engaging.

Conclusion

There you have it! An easy yet impressively delicious Stuffed Acorn Squash with Wild Rice recipe that’s sure to become a new autumn favorite. With its rich flavors, inviting aromas, and wholesome ingredients, this dish brings magic to every meal. We encourage you to try this recipe in your kitchen and experience the warmth and satisfaction it brings to your table.

Leave a comment below if you tried this recipe! We’d love to hear about your experience. Or, share your version on Instagram with the hashtag MyDeliciousDish and tag us so we can see your culinary creations!