Festive and Delicious Quinoa Stuffed Vegan Delicata Squash

Delicata Squash in Foreground

 

Delicata Squash is a type of heirloom squash that has thin pale yellow skin with dark green or orange stripes, and bright orange flesh inside.

Its sweet flavor is similar to butternut or acorn squash, with a slightly nuttier taste.

Some people may not have ever eaten this variety of squash. Rest assured, Delicata tastes sublime and is cost efficient.

It has the velvety texture of winter squash, and the sweetness of sweet potatoes. Peak season is fall and winter. 

No need to peel this variety of squash, because once Delicata is roasted, its skin is edible. This makes it flavorful, economical, and easy to prepare.

One 3.5 oz. serving of Delicata is only 34 calories. It's gluten free, and high in fiber. It also is a good source of Vitamin A and C. For more see  "9 Amazing Delicata Squash Nutrition Facts and Health Benefits." 

Festive and Delicious Quinoa

 Stuffed Vegan Delicata  

Squash Recipe

Quinoa Stuffed Vegan Delicata Squash with tofu, garlic, and herbs makes for a pretty presentation on any holiday table, or whenever you fancy a flavorful, filling meal!

Ingredients:

2 Delicata Squash

1 ½ cups quinoa (any variety you like) cooked according to package directions

6-8 oz. cooked tofu cubed, sliced, or mashed

3-4 garlic cloves minced fine (sauté for a few minutes in 1 teaspoon olive oil to brown)

½ cup fresh minced parsley or other fresh herb you enjoy

1 ½ teaspoon salt free Italian seasoning blend

2 Tablespoons orange juice or more to taste

 

What to do:

1.Pre-heat your oven to 350 degrees F.

2. Wash outside of the Delicata squash thoroughly. Cut off the tough part on the ends, cut squash in half lengthwise, and scrape out the seeds and pulp with a fork. 

Prepping the squash in this way hollows out a cavity for the filling. You may discard the seeds or clean them to roast for later use.

3. Place Delicata halves face up in a roasting pan or sheet pan and roast for at least 30 minutes or until a fork can easily pierce the peel. If shells seems too dry, add a drop or two of water to each.

4. While Delicata is roasting, prepare quinoa according to package directions (15-20 minutes). 

Quinoa Needs to be Rinsed Before Cooking It 

Although quinoa is a seed, it is prepared like a grain. It’s a complete protein, full of fiber and a good source of calcium, magnesium, and iron, making it a great alternative to grains. And it’s gluten free.

5. Combine stuffing ingredients including cooked quinoa, tofu pieces, minced garlic, seasonings, and orange juice.

6. Scoop stuffing mixture into cooked Delicata shells, and heat in the oven for another 10 minutes, or until it’s hot, browned, and fork tender.

Serve as a festive main dish with a tossed salad or other cooked veggies. 

Roasted Quinoa Stuffed Vegan Delicata Squash with Sweet potatoes and Brussel sprouts 

You may want to cook squash and quinoa one day in advance. If you do, don't put stuffing in the squash, but keep each part of the dish in containers that are refrigerated. 

Fill the cooked Delicata shells with stuffing the day of your planned lunch or dinner, and heat. 

This recipe serves four hearty eaters.

If you want to stretch the recipe or have a small appetite, cut squash halves in half. 

Serve each chunk atop a crunchy green salad. It will serve 8 for lunch or brunch this way.

Shop and eat Delicata Squash in the fall and winter (in-season) or plant and grow some in your home garden.

Eat Delicata for its flavor, eye-appeal, health benefits, and ease of preparation. 🌟

Have you ever eaten Delicata squash? Do you think you'll give it a try?

Please comment below in the comment section. I'd love to know if my recipe sounds intriguing to you.

Did you learn something new from this recipe post? Does it validate or reinforce things that you already do to enhance a healthy lifestyle and how or why?

Cooking new recipes at home can be the start of a new hobby and creative outlet for you.  

When you prepare meals at home, you have more control over the ingredients, and ensure you’re eating fresh, wholesome meals. 

Eating better quality food can help you look and feel healthier, boost energy, stabilize weight and mood, and improve your sleep and overall wellness.

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This post is offered for educational and entertainment purposes only, and not intended as health or nutrition advice. 

 

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