Quinoa and Vegetable Stuffed Acorn Squash

Ingredients:

• 2 acorn squashes, halved and seeds removed

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed

• 2 cups vegetable broth or water

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 red bell pepper, diced

• 1 small zucchini, diced

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

• Toasted pumpkin seeds or chopped nuts for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Place the acorn squash halves, cut-side down, on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the squash halves are tender when pierced with a fork. Remove from the oven and set aside.

3. While the squash is baking, prepare the quinoa. In a saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and vegetable broth or water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the quinoa is cooked. Fluff the quinoa with a fork and set aside.

4. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.

5. Add minced garlic, diced red bell pepper, and diced zucchini to the skillet. Sauté for a few minutes until the vegetables are slightly tender.

6. Stir in the dried thyme, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute, allowing the flavors to meld.

7. Add the cooked quinoa to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Mix everything together and cook for a few more minutes to combine flavors. Remove from heat.

8. Fill each roasted acorn squash half with the quinoa and vegetable mixture, pressing gently to pack the stuffing.

9. Optionally, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the stuffed squash halves.

10. Place the stuffed acorn squash back in the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until heated through and the tops are golden.

11. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and toasted pumpkin seeds or nuts before serving, if desired.

This flavorful and wholesome stuffed acorn squash makes for a satisfying vegetarian main course or a delightful side dish, perfect for a comforting meal during the cooler seasons. Adjust the seasoning and vegetables to your preference for a personalized touch!