Delicious Stuffed Butternut Squash

This delightful stuffed butternut squash recipe is a flavorful and nutritious dish, perfect for cozy gatherings or a satisfying meal on any day. Butternut squash, known for its rich, sweet flavor and creamy texture, serves as an ideal base for a deliciously stuffed dish. The recipe combines a medley of fresh ingredients such as mushrooms, millet, and a blend of cheeses for a delightful combination. The addition of herbs like thyme and sage elevates the flavors, while a touch of chili pepper adds just the right amount of heat. With a crunchy topping of parmesan and sunflower seeds, this dish has an irresistible texture. Whether you're catering to a vegetarian audience or simply looking for a lovely vegetable dish, this stuffed squash will win everyone over. An optional variation includes vegan cheese, making it adaptable to different dietary needs. Finish it off with your favorite side dishes, and you have a mouthwatering meal ready to be enjoyed. This recipe brings together wholesome, hearty flavors that will warm you up from the inside out.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 butternut squash
1 onion
1 chili pepper
200 g mushrooms
200 ml millet
100 g goat cheese (vegan option available)
100 g parmesan cheese (vegan option available)
2 tbsp broth
Sunflower seeds

Spices and Sauces

Thyme
Sage
Salt
Pepper
Oil

Preparation Time

Total Time: Approximately 80 minutes (45 minutes prep and cook time + 35 minutes additional cook time).

Step-by-Step Instruction

Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).
Carefully cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
Brush the inside of the squash halves with oil and place them cut-side up on a baking tray.
Roast the squash for about 45 minutes or until the flesh is tender when pierced with a fork.
Once the squash is done, scoop out the flesh, leaving a 1-cm thick shell. Set aside the flesh.
In a pan, heat a small amount of oil and sauté the chopped onion until translucent.
Add the chopped chili pepper, a handful of sage leaves, and a sprinkle of thyme to the pan. Sauté for another minute.
Stir in the sliced mushrooms and continue to cook until the mushrooms are golden brown and tender.
Pepper and salt the mixture to taste and allow the flavors to meld.
Pour in the broth to deglaze the pan, simmer for a few minutes, and then mix in the cooked millet and squash flesh.
Fold in half of the goat cheese and half of the parmesan, along with a handful of sunflower seeds.
Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
Spoon the mixture generously into the hollowed-out squash halves.
Top the filling with the remaining parmesan cheese.
Increase the oven temperature to 190°C (374°F) and bake the stuffed squash for an additional 15 minutes.
The cheese should be golden and melted, and the squash warmed through.
Allow the stuffed squash to rest for a few minutes before cutting into slices.
While serving, garnish with additional fresh herbs or a sprinkle of toasted sunflower seeds for added crunch.
This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or crusty bread.
Enjoy your meal with a glass of your favorite wine or a refreshing iced tea.

Tips

Use pre-cooked millet to save time.
Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or basil for varied flavors.
Use vegan cheese substitutes to create a vegan-friendly version.
If you prefer a spicier dish, add more chili pepper or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Nutritions

Calories per serving: approximately 350

Protein: 12g
Fats: 15g
Carbohydrates: 45g

Variations

For a gluten-free version, ensure all cheese and broth are certified gluten-free. If you're looking for extra protein, consider adding cooked quinoa or chickpeas to the stuffing mixture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a simple green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette.
Add roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or carrots for a more hearty meal.
This dish pairs wonderfully with a chilled glass of white wine like Pinot Grigio.

Best Places

Explore some of the best places around the world to enjoy delightful stuffed vegetables:

The Greenhouse - A quintessential spot for fresh, organic delights. Location: 26 Andrew Street, London, England.
Harvest on Hudson - Nestled along the Hudson River, offering beautiful views with delicious meals. Location: 1 River Street, Hastings-on-Hudson, USA.
Pure & Whole - Known for innovative plant-based cuisine. Location: 98 Wuding Road, Shanghai, China.
The Herb Café - Known for its hearty and healthy meals. Location: 134 William Street, Melbourne, Australia.
Roots & Bulbs - A cozy spot for veg lovers. Location: 7 Rosslyn Hill, London, England.
Nourish Cafe - A vibrant spot with a creative menu. Location: 1030 Hyde Street, San Francisco, USA.
Green Soul - Offers nutritious meals with local produce. Location: 1337 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, USA.
Planta - Famed for gourmet plant-based dishes. Location: 1221 Bay Street, Toronto, Canada.
Super Food & Organic - Known for its fresh and wholesome offerings. Location: 88-90 Lexington Avenue, New York, USA.
Green Delight - A local favorite with hearty vegetable dishes. Location: 55 Rue Rambuteau, Paris, France.