Cheesy Wild Rice-Stuffed Acorn Squash with Dried Fruits and Pecans
Indulge in the delightful comfort of our cheesy wild rice-stuffed acorn squash, a heartwarming dish perfect for any occasion. Sweet dried cherries and apricots blend beautifully with crunchy pecans and a creamy cheesy topping, making every bite a flavorful experience. The combination of wild rice and white rice adds a lovely texture, making this dish not only delicious but also visually appealing. Ideal for a cozy family dinner alongside roast chicken, or pair it with a fresh green salad topped with roasted pears for a lighter meal. This recipe also offers the convenience of quick-cooking rice, perfect for busy weeknights.
8
Servings
N/A
Calories
13
Ingredients
Ingredients
Acorn Squash
2 (cut in half and seeds removed)
White and Wild Rice
1 (6 ounce) box (quick cooking, prepare according to package directions)
Dried Cherries
1/4 cup (roughly chopped)
Dried Apricots
1/4 cup (roughly chopped)
Pecans
1/2 cup (roughly chopped)
Provolone Cheese
1 cup (shredded (can substitute with Monterey Jack or white cheddar))
Scallions
2 (finely chopped)
Shallots
2 (very finely chopped (can substitute with a small onion))
Minced Garlic
2 teaspoons (minced)
Olive Oil
2 tablespoons (for drizzling and cooking)
Butter
1 1/2 tablespoons (for mixing into the rice)
Salt
to taste (for seasoning)
Pepper
to taste (for seasoning)
Instructions
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cheesy Wild Rice-Stuffed Acorn Squash?
It is a comfort-food dish featuring roasted acorn squash halves filled with a blend of white and wild rice, dried fruits, pecans, and melted cheese.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian as it contains only vegetables, rice, fruits, nuts, and dairy products.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe is designed to provide 8 servings.
What kind of squash is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 2 acorn squashes, which are cut in half with the seeds removed.
What type of rice is recommended for the filling?
The recipe uses one 6-ounce box of quick-cooking white and wild rice.
Which dried fruits are included in the stuffing?
The stuffing includes 1/4 cup of roughly chopped dried cherries and 1/4 cup of roughly chopped dried apricots.
Can I substitute the dried cherries with something else?
Yes, you can easily substitute dried cherries with dried cranberries or raisins if preferred.
What kind of nuts are used for the crunch in this dish?
The recipe uses 1/2 cup of roughly chopped pecans for added texture and flavor.
Is there a substitute for Provolone cheese?
Yes, you can substitute Provolone with Monterey Jack or white cheddar cheese.
How much cheese is required for the topping?
The recipe calls for 1 cup of shredded Provolone cheese.
Can I use onion instead of shallots?
Yes, if you do not have shallots, you can use one small onion as a substitute.
How should the scallions be prepared?
The 2 scallions should be finely chopped before being added to the mixture.
What amount of garlic is needed?
The recipe requires 2 teaspoons of minced garlic.
What role does butter play in this recipe?
1 1/2 tablespoons of butter are mixed into the cooked rice for added richness.
How should the rice be prepared?
The quick-cooking rice should be prepared according to the specific directions on the package.
What is the best way to serve this dish?
It is perfect for a cozy family dinner alongside roast chicken or paired with a fresh green salad.
Is this dish suitable for holiday meals?
Yes, its festive ingredients and presentation make it an excellent choice for a holiday side or main.
Does this recipe use olive oil?
Yes, 2 tablespoons of olive oil are used for both drizzling and cooking.
How do I season the stuffed squash?
You should use salt and pepper to taste for seasoning the squash and filling.
What category does this recipe fall under?
This recipe is categorized as a Rice dish.
Can I omit the pecans if I have a nut allergy?
Yes, you can omit the pecans or replace them with toasted pumpkin seeds for a nut-free option.
Is this a good recipe for busy weeknights?
Yes, because it uses quick-cooking rice, it is convenient enough for a weeknight meal.
What texture does the wild rice add?
The wild rice adds a lovely, slightly chewy texture that complements the soft squash.
How should the dried apricots be prepared?
The dried apricots should be roughly chopped into smaller pieces.
Can I use white cheddar instead of provolone?
Yes, white cheddar is a suggested substitute that provides a sharp and creamy finish.
What kind of salad pairs well with this squash?
A fresh green salad topped with roasted pears is recommended as a lighter side pairing.
Do I need to peel the acorn squash?
No, the squash is roasted in its skin, which acts as a natural bowl for the stuffing.
Is this recipe considered a fall recipe?
Yes, with ingredients like acorn squash and pecans, it is a quintessential fall dish.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 13 total ingredients in this recipe.
Is the dish visually appealing?
Yes, the mix of colorful dried fruits, dark rice, and golden squash makes it very visually appealing.