Valentine Dinner Stuffed Acorn Squash

Name: Valentine Dinner Stuffed Acorn Squash
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 medium acorn squashes; 1 cup quinoa, rinsed; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup cooked chickpeas; 1/2 cup dried cranberries; 1/2 cup chopped walnuts; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: Family Seasonal Food Collection

I am excited to share this delicious Valentine Dinner Stuffed Acorn Squash recipe that has quickly become one of my favorite go-to meals for special occasions. The tender squash acts as a beautiful vessel for a hearty, flavorful stuffing made with quinoa, cranberries, and spices. This dish not only looks stunning on the plate, but it also delivers a delightful mix of textures and tastes that are sure to impress. Plus, it's a simple yet elegant meal that will make your Valentine’s Day dinner feel truly special.

Created by

Juliet Ashford

Last updated on 2026-01-06T14:06:34.999Z

When I first made these stuffed acorn squashes for a special occasion, I was blown away by how filling yet healthy they were. Each squash half is packed with a colorful mixture of quinoa, roasted vegetables, and a hint of sweetness from cranberries, making every bite a celebration of flavor. I’ve found that roasting the squash at a high temperature ensures it caramelizes perfectly, creating an irresistible sweetness that pairs beautifully with the savory stuffing.

Another tip I discovered is to mix the stuffing ingredients together while they’re still warm, which helps the flavors meld together beautifully. Adding a sprinkle of feta cheese just before serving adds a creamy, tangy finish that takes this dish to the next level. Trust me, this recipe will not only impress your loved ones but will also fill your home with wonderful aromas!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Vibrant colors and textures make for an eye-catching presentation.
Nutritious ingredients that provide a balance of flavors and satisfaction.
Perfect for a cozy dinner date or a festive gathering.

      

Choosing the Right Acorn Squash

When selecting your acorn squashes, look for ones that are firm and heavy for their size, with a deep green color and vibrant orange markings. These characteristics indicate ripeness and sweetness. Avoid squashes with soft spots or blemishes, as they may be overripe or starting to spoil. I recommend getting squashes around six inches in diameter for a satisfying serving size that pairs well with the stuffing.

The cooking method you choose can impact the flavor and texture. Roasting the squash cut side down allows them to steam, ensuring a tender bite that complements the nutty stuffing. If you prefer a deeper caramelization, consider roasting them cut side up for the last few minutes of cooking, brushing the insides lightly with additional olive oil.

Perfecting the Quinoa Stuffing

Cooking the quinoa in vegetable broth infuses your stuffing with rich flavor. Make sure to rinse the quinoa thoroughly to remove any bitterness from the natural coating called saponin. This step significantly enhances the taste of the dish. After cooking, let the quinoa rest, covered, for a few minutes to allow the grains to fluff up, making them light and airy.

For added depth, consider enhancing your stuffing with spices like nutmeg or ginger to complement the cinnamon. If you're looking for a more protein-rich option, substitute chickpeas with black beans or cooked lentils, which will maintain the same texture while offering a different flavor profile. Incorporating fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can also elevate the dish.

Serving and Storage Tips

When serving, I recommend garnishing the stuffed acorn squashes with additional walnuts and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an elegant touch. This infuses extra flavor while enhancing the presentation. Pair it with a light salad or simply roasted vegetables to complete the meal. If you're hosting a dinner, this dish serves beautifully on a large platter for a family-style feast.

If you have leftovers, store the stuffed squash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Freezing is also an option; you can freeze the squash halves before baking. Just thaw and bake directly from the freezer, extending the cooking time by 10-15 minutes.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create your stunning acorn squash dish:

For the Stuffed Acorn Squash

2 medium acorn squashes
1 cup quinoa, rinsed
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup cooked chickpeas
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1/2 cup chopped walnuts
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)

Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your stuffed acorn squash:

Prepare the Acorn Squash

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the acorn squashes in half and scoop out the seeds. Brush the insides with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and place them cut side down on a baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes until tender.

Cook the Quinoa

In a saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is fluffy and the liquid is absorbed.

Mix the Stuffing

In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, chickpeas, cranberries, walnuts, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning according to taste.

Stuff the Squash

Remove the acorn squashes from the oven and carefully turn them cut side up. Fill each half generously with the quinoa mixture. If using, sprinkle feta cheese on top.

Final Bake

Return the stuffed squashes to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until heated through and the tops are slightly golden.

Serve Warm

Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, and serve warm as a delightful main course.

Enjoy your beautiful and delicious stuffed acorn squash!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, you can add herbs such as thyme or rosemary to the stuffing. Additionally, you may experiment with different nuts and seeds for texture variations.

Variations for Every Taste

Feel free to customize the stuffing to match your flavor preferences. For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mix. Alternatively, swapping out walnuts for almonds or pecans introduces a completely different flavor and texture while maintaining that crunchy element. You could even replace the cranberries with chopped apples or figs for a seasonal twist that adds freshness.

For a vegan version, omit the feta cheese or use a plant-based cheese alternative. This recipe is incredibly versatile, and you can adjust the ingredients based on what you have available in your pantry while still keeping the integrity of the dish intact.

Tips for a Successful Dinner

Timing is key to ensuring everything comes together smoothly. Start by roasting the squash first so they can cook while you prepare the stuffing. When the quinoa is almost ready, make the filling, allowing for seamless assembly. This multitasking keeps your meal preparation efficient and less stressful.

Always taste your stuffing before filling the squashes. This ensures the seasoning is just right and allows you to adjust based on your preferences. Cooking is all about balance, so feel free to add a little more salt, acid, or spice before final baking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Absolutely! You can omit the feta cheese, and all other ingredients are already vegan.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Leftover stuffed acorn squash can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I substitute other grains for quinoa?

Yes, you can use rice, couscous, or farro as alternatives to quinoa in this recipe.

→ What's the cooking time for larger squashes?

If using larger acorn squashes, you may need to increase the roasting time by 5-10 minutes.