Savory Delicata Squash with Nutty Dried Fruit Stuffing
This delightful recipe features delicata squash, renowned for its sweet taste and edible skin, making it not only simple to prepare but also a nutritious option for any meal. The squash is hollowed out and filled with a rich mixture of toasted pine nuts, sweet dried cranberries, tangy dried apricots, and crunchy bread cubes, all harmoniously blended with diced apples and a hint of brown sugar for a touch of sweetness. Baked to perfection, this dish offers a vibrant presentation and a satisfying medley of flavors and textures. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or as a festive holiday side dish, this recipe is a comforting nod to autumn's bounty that everyone will love!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
Delicata squash
2 (Cut in half, seeds removed)
Pine nuts
1/4 cup (Toasted)
Brown sugar
2 tablespoons (None)
Dried cranberries
1/4 cup (None)
Dried apricot
1/4 cup (Chopped)
Apples
1 1/2 cups (Peeled and diced small)
Margarine
1 tablespoon (Melted)
Bread cubes
1 cup (None)
Apple cider or water
1/2 cup (None)
Instructions
1
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
Slice each delicata squash in half lengthwise and remove the seeds. Place the squash, cut side down, on a rimmed baking pan. Pour in 1/2 inch of water to create steam while baking.
3
Bake the squash in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until it becomes slightly soft to the touch.
4
Carefully remove the pan from the oven, drain the water, and flip the squash over so the cut sides are facing up.
5
In a large mixing bowl, combine the toasted pine nuts, brown sugar, dried cranberries, chopped dried apricots, diced apples, melted margarine, and bread cubes. Mix until all ingredients are evenly coated.
6
Spoon the stuffing mixture into the hollowed-out cavities of each squash half.
7
Return the stuffed squash to the oven and bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until the squash is tender and the filling is golden brown on top.
8
Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious and colorful dish!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main vegetable used in this recipe?
The main vegetable used in this recipe is delicata squash.
Do I need to peel the delicata squash?
No, delicata squash is known for having edible skin and does not need to be peeled.
How many delicata squashes does this recipe require?
The recipe requires 2 delicata squashes.
What temperature should the oven be preheated to?
The oven should be preheated to 350°F (175°C).
How should the squash be sliced?
Each delicata squash should be sliced in half lengthwise.
What should be removed from the squash before baking?
The seeds should be removed from the center of the squash.
How is the squash placed on the baking pan initially?
Place the squash cut side down on a rimmed baking pan.
Why is water added to the baking pan?
Water is added to the pan to create steam, which helps the squash bake evenly and stay moist.
How much water should be poured into the baking pan?
You should pour in 1/2 inch of water.
How long is the initial baking time for the squash?
The initial bake time is 30 minutes, or until the squash is slightly soft.
What is the first step after the initial 30-minute bake?
Remove the pan from the oven, drain the water, and flip the squash cut side up.
What kind of nuts are used in the stuffing?
The recipe calls for toasted pine nuts.
How much brown sugar is needed for the stuffing?
You will need 2 tablespoons of brown sugar.
Which dried fruits are included in the mixture?
The mixture includes dried cranberries and chopped dried apricots.
How should the apples be prepared for the stuffing?
The apples should be peeled and diced into small pieces.
How many cups of diced apples are required?
The recipe requires 1 1/2 cups of diced apples.
What type of fat is used in the stuffing mixture?
The recipe uses 1 tablespoon of melted margarine.
How many bread cubes are needed?
One cup of bread cubes is needed for the stuffing.
What is used if I do not have apple cider?
You can use water instead of apple cider.
Where do I put the stuffing mixture?
Spoon the stuffing mixture into the hollowed-out cavities of each squash half.
How long do I bake the squash after it has been stuffed?
Bake for an additional 30 minutes after stuffing.
How do I know the dish is finished baking?
The dish is finished when the squash is tender and the filling is golden brown on top.
Is this dish suitable for a holiday meal?
Yes, it is described as a festive holiday side dish that is perfect for autumn.
What kind of flavors can I expect from this dish?
You can expect a blend of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors with nutty undertones.
Is this recipe considered a side dish or a main?
It is primarily categorized as a vegetable side dish or a festive holiday side.
Does the recipe require specific equipment?
You will need an oven, a rimmed baking pan, and a large mixing bowl.
What is the texture of the stuffing?
The stuffing is a medley of crunchy bread cubes, toasted nuts, and soft fruit.
Should I let the squash cool before serving?
Yes, let the dish cool for a few minutes after removing it from the oven.
How many total ingredients are used in this recipe?
There are 9 ingredients in total.
What makes delicata squash simple to prepare?
Its edible skin and relatively small size make it easy to slice and bake quickly compared to other squashes.