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Creamy Stuffed Delicata Squash

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A cozy and elegant side dish featuring tender roasted delicata squash rings stuffed with a savory, creamy quinoa and cheese filling. It is quick to prepare, gluten-free, and perfect for weeknights or dinner parties.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 delicata squash (approx. 2 lbs), washed and sliced into 1/2 to 3/4-inch thick rings with seeds removed
  • 1 cup dry quinoa (white or tri-color), rinsed
  • 2 cups water or vegetable broth
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 ounces cream cheese (softened) or crumbled goat cheese
  • 2–3 tablespoons heavy cream or whole milk
  • 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Olive oil for brushing
  • Optional: Toasted pecans or walnuts, balsamic glaze

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Slice the delicata squash into rings, scoop out seeds, and arrange on the baking sheet. Brush lightly with olive oil and season with salt. Roast for 15-20 minutes until tender and slightly browned. Reduce oven temperature to 375°F (190°C).
  3. While squash roasts, rinse quinoa and combine with water or broth in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes. Let sit covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
  4. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté diced onion for 5-7 minutes until translucent. Add garlic and thyme, cooking for 1 more minute until fragrant.
  5. In a mixing bowl, combine cooked quinoa, sautéed onion mixture, cream cheese (or goat cheese), and heavy cream. Mix until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper.
  6. Spoon the filling generously into each roasted squash ring. Place back on the baking sheet, cut-side up.
  7. Bake for 10-15 minutes until filling is heated through and lightly golden. Optionally broil for 2 minutes for extra browning.
  8. Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with extra thyme or toasted nuts if desired.

Notes

Do not cut the squash too thin, or it may disintegrate. Ensure quinoa is fluffed and not wet before mixing with cheese to prevent a runny filling. Pre-roasting the squash prevents it from releasing too much water during the final bake. For a vegan version, use coconut oil and vegan cream cheese.

Nutrition

Keywords: delicata squash, stuffed squash, quinoa recipe, vegetarian side dish, gluten-free, easy dinner, comfort food, healthy vegetables

Find it online: https://mandydishes.com/creamy-stuffed-delicata-squash-best-easy-side-dish/