Christmas Acorn Squash Stuffed with Creamy Quinoa, Caramelized Mushrooms and Parmesan Cranberry Crust

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat the oven to 220°C / 425°F. Place the acorn squash halves on a baking tray, rub them with 1 tablespoon olive oil, season with 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and the smoked paprika, then roast cut-side down for 30 minutes.

2. 2

   While the squash roasts, place the quinoa and vegetable broth in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, lower the heat, cover, and cook for 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Remove from the heat and fluff with a fork.

3. 3

   Heat the butter with the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shallot and cook for 3 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook 30 seconds more.

4. 4

   Add the mushrooms, thyme, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and the remaining black pepper. Cook for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are deeply golden and caramelized.

5. 5

   Add the spinach, dried cranberries, nutmeg, and lemon zest. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes until the spinach wilts. Remove the skillet from the heat.

6. 6

   In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa with the mushroom mixture, cream cheese, 40 g grated Parmesan, parsley, and the remaining salt. Stir until the filling is creamy and evenly mixed.

7. 7

   Remove the squash from the oven and reduce the temperature to 200°C / 400°F. Carefully turn the halves over. If desired, gently press the centers with a spoon to create a little more space for the filling without breaking the skin.

8. 8

   Fill each squash half with the quinoa mixture. In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with the remaining 30 g grated Parmesan and sprinkle this crust over the four filled halves.

9. 9

   Bake at 200°C / 400°F for 20 minutes, or until the squash is very tender and the top is golden and crisp.

10. 10

    Let rest for 5 minutes before serving so the filling can set slightly. Serve hot as a festive Christmas main course.