Eating seasonally ensures that you are eating things that are at their peak of flavor! I never miss an opportunity to make one of my favorite fall treats, Delicata Squash.
This versatile vegetable is not only delicious but also packed with essential vitamins and minerals. Delicata squash, with its sweet, creamy flesh and delicate skin, makes the perfect vessel for a hearty stuffing. You can let your creativity shine by using various ingredients such as quinoa, black beans, or even feta cheese. This recipe combines brown rice , sausage, and warm spices to create a satisfying and nutritious dish. Baking the stuffed squash until it’s tender reveals its caramelized flavors, proving that simplicity can lead to extraordinary tastes. The natural sweetness of the squash pairs beautifully with the savory filling, making this a truly comforting and flavorful meal. The stuffing makes this not only an interesting side dish but it can be a complete meal since it contains protein, fiber and carbs! This is a great make ahead meal that can be put together and baked when you are ready to serve. Whether for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, Delicata squash will surely impress your guests. . So, let’s dive into this delightful recipe and savor the flavors of the season!
Ingredients1/2 cup Brown Rice1 cup Water1/4 tsp SaltAdd the water and rice to a small pot and bring to a boil. Add the salt stir and lower to a simmer, cook for 40 to 45 minutes. Then remove removed from heat and keep covered for 10 minutes to steam.
Cut the squash in half and remove the seeds. Season with salt, pepper, cinnamon and nutmeg. Drizzle with olive oil and place cut side down onto a baking sheet. Roast for 20 minutes or until forktender.
Stuffing
IngredientsCooked Brown Rice1/4 tsp Salt1/2 Yellow Onion chopped3 Sausage Links1/3 cup White Wine1/4 cup Walnuts choppedHandful of Fresh Spinach amount is to tasteGrated Parmigiano Reggiano to tasteFreshly ground black pepper to taste
To a sauté pan and onion and olive oil. Sauté until translucent then add in the sausage and Brown well. Deglaze the pan with white wine and a cook for a few minutes to cook out the wine. Then add in chopped walnuts, fresh spinach, grated parmigiano reggiano and black pepper to taste. Mix everything well.
Add a healthy portion of the stuffing to each squash. Top with more grated parmigiano reggiano and placed into the oven for another 10 minutes to roast.
At this point, you can eat it as is or add interesting toppings like walnuts, dried cranberries, and goat cheese.