Lentil Walnut Stuffed Squash (Printer-Friendly)

Roasted acorn squash filled with a savory mix of lentils, walnuts, veggies, and herbs for a wholesome dish.

# What You'll Need:

→ Acorn Squash

01 - 2 medium acorn squashes, halved and seeded
02 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
03 - ½ teaspoon salt
04 - ¼ teaspoon freshly ground 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 fresh parsley, chopped
15 - 1 teaspoon dried thyme
16 - ½ teaspoon ground cumin
17 - ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
18 - ½ teaspoon salt
19 - ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

→ Garnish

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

# Method:

01 - Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Brush cut sides of acorn squash halves with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Place cut side down on baking sheet and roast for 35 to 40 minutes until tender.
02 - Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook 3 to 4 minutes until softened.
03 - Stir in minced garlic, diced carrot, and diced celery; cook an additional 5 minutes until vegetables are tender.
04 - Add cooked lentils, chopped walnuts, cooked quinoa or rice if using, dried cranberries, parsley, thyme, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to skillet. Mix thoroughly and cook 2 to 3 minutes to blend flavors. Remove from heat.
05 - Remove squash from oven and turn cut sides up. Carefully scoop out some flesh leaving a ½-inch border. Chop the scooped flesh and stir into the filling mixture.
06 - Fill each squash half generously with the lentil-walnut mixture. Return to oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes until heated through and slightly golden on top.
07 - Sprinkle with crumbled feta or vegan alternative and fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • Hearty and filling vegetarian main or festive side
  • Rich in plant-based protein and fiber
02 -
  • This recipe is naturally gluten-free if you use certified grains
  • Walnuts and feta are potential allergens; check ingredient labels for safety
03 -
  • Roast squash cut side down for even caramelization
  • Prepare filling ahead for busy weeknights or meal prep
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