If you can’t get enough of veggies check out this recipe for stuffed butternut squash by Dietitian Debbies Dishes. The Mediterranean-inspired recipe features baked butternut squash boats filled with fluffy quinoa, Brussels sprouts, olives and feta cheese. It’s a terrific option for meatless meals.
Stuffed Butternut Squash
Ingredients
- 1 large butternut squash (about 2 pounds)
- Olive oil for brushing (about 1 tablespoon)
- 1/2 cup uncooked quinoa, rinsed (certified gluten-free if necessary)
- 1 cup low-sodium vegetable broth (certified gluten-free if necessary)
- 3/4 cup brussels sprouts
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 8-10 kalamata olives, chopped
- 2-3 fresh sage leaves, chopped
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 ounce feta cheese
Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise, scoop out the seeds, and place cut side up on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil.
Brush cut side of the squash with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Cover with a sheet of aluminum foil and bake for 45-60 minutes or until tender when poked with a fork.
In a medium sauce pan, combine the quinoa and vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer and cover. Cook about 15-20 minutes or until broth is absorbed. Set aside.
Put the brussels sprouts in a food processor and process until finely chopped/shredded.
In a skillet, melt the butter. Add the chopped onion, sage, and brussels sprouts. Cook over medium-high heat, stirring frequently until brussels sprouts begin to brown and onion is translucent.
Combine the quinoa, sprout mixture, olives, balsamic, and feta.
Scoop out the flesh of the butternut, leaving about 1/3 to 1/2 inch of pulp in the skin. In a small bowl, mash the scooped out squash well and then add the the quinoa. Stir until combined.
Spoon quinoa mixture into the hollowed out portion of the butternut squash. Bake for another 10 minutes and serve.
Nutrition Information
Serves: 4| Serving Size: 1/4 squash
Per serving: Calories: 321; Total Fat: 14g; Saturated Fat: 6g; Monounsaturated Fat: 5g; Cholesterol: 22mg; Sodium: 299mg; Carbohydrate: 45g; Dietary Fiber: 7g; Sugar: 7g; Protein: 7g
Nutrition Bonus: Potassium: 979mg; Iron: 18%; Vitamin A: 488%; Vitamin C: 96%; Calcium: 17%
Deborah Davis MS, RD is a Registered Dietitian who practices clinical dietetics in Chicago, Illinois. She shares practical nutrition tips and healthy recipes on her personal blog, Dietitian Debbie Dishes. In her free time, you’ll likely find Deborah in the kitchen, camera and spatula in hand, developing recipes for her blog and freelance pieces. Connect with Deborah on Twitter and Instagram. Photo courtesy of Deborah Davis.
Original recipe published on Dietitian Debbie Dishes.
