Spiced Acorn Squash with a Savory Filling

This cozy dish combines tender acorn squash with a flavorful, savory filling that’s perfect for a comforting meal. It’s easy to prepare and packed with warm spices that bring out the natural sweetness of the squash.

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TIME1 hr

SERVINGS4

RATING5.0 / 5

Spiced Acorn Squash with a Savory Filling

01 / WHAT YOU NEED

Ingredients

2 acorn squash, halved and seeded 1 tablespoon olive oil, or as needed ½ cup diced red bell pepper ½ cup sliced daikon radish ¼ cup sliced leek ¼ cup diced celery 1 jalapeno pepper, diced 1 tablespoon minced garlic 2 cups vegetable stock 1 cup brown rice 1 cup chopped collard greens 1 tablespoon curry powder 1 ½ teaspoons red curry paste ¼ cup chopped walnuts ½ cup crumbled feta cheese

02 / HOW TO MAKE IT

Let's cook.

Step 1

Start by wrapping each acorn squash half tightly with plastic wrap. Pop them in the microwave, cut side down, and cook on high for about 12 to 15 minutes until they’re nice and tender. Keep them wrapped while you get the filling ready.

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Step 2

Heat some olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the red bell pepper, radish, leek, celery, jalapeno, and garlic, stirring occasionally until everything softens—this should take around 10 minutes. Pour in the vegetable stock and rice, give it a good stir, then cover and let it simmer gently until the rice soaks up the broth and is tender, which will take about 45 minutes.

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Step 3

Once the rice is almost done, stir in your greens, cover again, and cook until they’re just wilted, about 5 minutes. Then mix in the curry powder, curry paste, and walnuts, making sure everything is well combined.

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Step 4

Carefully unwrap the squash halves and place them cut side up in bowls. Add a couple of tablespoons of feta cheese into each squash, then spoon a generous amount of the rice filling on top. If you have any extra feta left, sprinkle it over the top for a nice finishing touch.

03 / EXTRA DETAILS

Good to know.

Cook's tip

- Roast the squash until tender but still holding its shape to avoid a mushy texture.
- Use a mix of fresh herbs and spices to enhance the filling’s flavor.
- If you prefer a creamier filling, add a bit of cheese or a splash of broth before stuffing.

Why you’ll love it

This dish brings together the natural sweetness of roasted squash with a rich, savory filling. The warm spices add depth without overpowering the flavors. It’s a comforting and nutritious option that works well for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Serving ideas

Serve warm alongside a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables. It also pairs nicely with grain dishes like quinoa or wild rice. For a festive touch, garnish with toasted nuts or fresh herbs just before serving.

Storage & leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to keep the squash from becoming too soft. You can also freeze the filling separately for up to a month and stuff fresh squash when ready to eat.