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Stuffed Air Fryer Acorn Squash with Quinoa

Stuffed Air Fryer Acorn Squash with Quinoa


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  • Author: Chef Alma
  • Total Time: 35
  • Yield: 2 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegan, Gluten-Free

Description

This cozy, plant-based dish features perfectly roasted acorn squash halves filled with a savory, protein-rich blend of quinoa, sautéed kale, garlic, and fresh sage. It is a nutritious, visually stunning meal that combines the natural sweetness of winter squash with earthy, aromatic flavors. Perfectly suited for a healthy weeknight dinner, this recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free, providing a gourmet experience without the long oven-roasting time.


Ingredients

Scale

1 acorn squash (halved, seeds removed, small flat edge cut for stability)
60 g quinoa, rinsed well
180 ml vegetable broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/3 cup red onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup kale, shredded, stalks removed
1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped
1 tablespoon pumpkin seeds, toasted
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: 1 tablespoon pomegranate seeds
Optional: Vegan parmesan cheese for garnish


Instructions

Place the quinoa and vegetable broth in a small pot, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
While the quinoa cooks, brush the cut sides of the acorn squash with a little oil, salt, and pepper.
Place the squash halves cut-side up in the air fryer basket and cook at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes until the flesh is tender.
In a pan, sauté the red onion in olive oil until translucent, then add garlic and shredded kale, cooking until the kale is wilted.
Combine the cooked quinoa, sautéed kale mixture, and fresh sage in a bowl, seasoning with salt and pepper.
Stuff the quinoa mixture into the hollow cavities of the roasted acorn squash.
Return the stuffed squash to the air fryer for 3-5 minutes to warm through.
Top with toasted pumpkin seeds, optional pomegranate seeds, and vegan parmesan before serving.

Notes

Ensure you rinse the quinoa thoroughly to remove its natural bitter coating. You can prepare the quinoa in advance to save time. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

  • Prep Time: 10
  • Cook Time: 25
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Air Frying
  • Cuisine: Contemporary

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 stuffed squash half
  • Calories: 280
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 350mg
  • Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Carbohydrates: 48g
  • Fiber: 9g
  • Protein: 9g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg