Discover the perfect harmony of flavors in our Roasted Acorn Squash with Farro, Mung Beans, and Goat Cheese! This vibrant dish not only tantalizes your taste buds but also brings a burst of color to your table, making it an irresistible centerpiece for any meal. Imagine the sweet, caramelized acorn squash cradling a hearty filling of nutty farro and tender mung beans, all topped with creamy goat cheese that melts in your mouth. Whether you're looking for a nutritious main course or a satisfying side dish, this recipe promises to impress your family and friends. Ready to elevate your cooking game? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 acorn squashes, halved and seeded
- 1 cup farro
- 1 cup mung beans
- 4 oz goat cheese, crumbled
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that the acorn squash roasts evenly and develops a nice caramelization.
- Prepare the acorn squashes by cutting them in half lengthwise and scooping out the seeds. You can use a spoon to remove the seeds and any stringy bits inside.
- Drizzle the cut sides of the acorn squash halves with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Place the squashes cut-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Roast the acorn squashes in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until they are tender and easily pierced with a fork. The edges should be slightly caramelized.
- While the squashes are roasting, rinse the farro and mung beans under cold water. In a medium saucepan, combine the farro and 3 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer and cover. Cook for about 25 minutes, or until the farro is tender but still chewy. Drain any excess water if needed.
- In a separate pot, combine the mung beans with 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer and cover. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the mung beans are tender but not mushy. Drain any excess water and set aside.
- Once the farro and mung beans are cooked, combine them in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss gently to combine.
- After the acorn squashes are done roasting, remove them from the oven and carefully flip them over so that the cut side is facing up.
- Evenly distribute the farro and mung bean mixture into each acorn squash half, pressing it down gently to pack it in.
- Sprinkle the crumbled goat cheese over the top of the farro and mung bean filling in each squash half.
- Return the stuffed acorn squashes to the oven and roast for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the goat cheese is warmed through and slightly melted.
- Once finished, remove the squashes from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh herbs of your choice, such as parsley or thyme, for added flavor and presentation.
- Serve the roasted acorn squash warm, either as a main dish or a hearty side. Enjoy your delicious and nutritious meal!
Tips
- Choose the Right Squash: Look for acorn squashes that are firm and heavy for their size. The darker the skin, the sweeter the flesh tends to be!
- Perfectly Cooked Grains: Make sure to rinse the farro and mung beans thoroughly before cooking to remove any excess starch and impurities. This will help achieve the perfect texture.
- Customize Your Filling: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or nuts to the farro and mung bean mixture for extra flavor and crunch. Roasted bell peppers or toasted walnuts work wonderfully!
- Goat Cheese Alternatives: If you’re not a fan of goat cheese, try substituting it with feta or even a dairy-free cheese option for a different twist.
- Garnish for Flavor: Fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or even a sprinkle of chili flakes can elevate the dish and add a fresh finish.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the farro and mung beans in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just assemble and bake the stuffed squash when you’re ready to serve!
- Serving Suggestions: Pair this dish with a light salad or a glass of white wine for a complete dining experience.Enjoy your culinary adventure with this delicious recipe!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 20mg
