Are you ready to elevate your plant-based cooking game with a dish that's not just a meal, but a culinary adventure? This Mediterranean Lentil Stuffed Delicata Squash is about to become your new obsession - a perfect blend of rustic charm and gourmet sophistication that will make your taste buds dance and your dinner guests incredibly impressed. With its golden-roasted squash, spice-infused lentils, and vibrant Mediterranean flavors, this recipe proves that healthy eating can be absolutely irresistible.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 55 mins
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 delicata squash, halved and seeded
- 1 cup lentils, cooked
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Wash the delicata squash thoroughly. Cut each squash in half lengthwise and carefully scoop out the seeds using a spoon. Discard seeds or save for roasting.
- Drizzle the squash halves with olive oil, and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Place cut-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
- Roast the squash in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the flesh is tender and edges are slightly caramelized.
- While squash is roasting, prepare the lentil filling. In a medium skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté chopped onions until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic, cumin, and paprika to the onions. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in the cooked lentils, mixing well with the spiced onion mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Remove squash from the oven and carefully flip the halves cut-side up. Fill each squash half generously with the lentil mixture.
- Return the stuffed squash to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes to heat through.
- Remove from oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot as a hearty vegetarian main course or side dish.
Tips
- Choose firm, bright-colored delicata squash with smooth skin for the best texture and flavor.
- Don't rush the roasting process - letting the squash caramelize creates deeper, richer flavors.
- For extra protein, consider adding crumbled feta or toasted pine nuts to your lentil mixture.
- If you prefer a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or harissa to the lentil filling.
- Ensure your lentils are well-seasoned and not too watery to prevent a soggy stuffing.
- Use fresh spices for the most vibrant taste - cumin and paprika lose potency over time.
- For a vegan version, skip any cheese and focus on herb-rich, aromatic seasonings.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 12g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
