The holidays are a time for family, friends, and food! Celebrating this special time of year is often centered around the food that we share with one another. While it’s easy to get caught up in unhealthy holiday eating habits, it’s important to make sure that you are also incorporating nutritious and healthy meals into your holiday repertoire.
One such meal is this delicious and healthy quinoa stuffed acorn squash. Stuffed with quinoa, apples, and toasted walnuts, this dish is sure to be a hit with family and friends alike and provide your body with the nutrients it needs to stay healthy during the holiday season.
Quinoa Stuffed Acorn Squash
Ingredients
–2 acorn squash
–2 tablespoons olive oil
–1 cup cooked quinoa
–1/2 cup diced apples
–1/2 cup toasted walnuts
–1 teaspoon dried sage
–1/4 teaspoon sea salt
–1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
1.Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the acorn squash in half and scoop out the seeds.
3. Place the squash halves onto a baking sheet and rub the cut sides with the olive oil.
4. Bake for 40 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
5. Remove from the oven and set aside.
6. In a medium bowl, combine the quinoa, apples, walnuts, sage, salt, and pepper.
7. Stuff the quinoa mixture into the cooked squash halves.
8. Bake for an additional 20 minutes.
9. Serve warm.
Amazing Health Benefits
Quinoa is a great source of protein and is an excellent choice for those looking to add more plant-based proteins to their diet. It is also high in fiber, which can help keep you feeling full longer, which can help with weight loss and management. Quinoa is also a good source of vitamins and minerals, such as iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, and zinc, that are essential for a healthy body. Additionally, quinoa is gluten-free, making it a great choice for those with gluten sensitivities or allergies.
Apples are a great source of fiber and vitamins, including vitamin C and potassium. They are also rich in antioxidants, which can help protect your cells from damage and reduce inflammation. Additionally, the fiber content in apples can help keep you feeling full for longer and can help with weight loss.
Walnuts are a great source of healthy fats and protein. They are also packed with vitamins and minerals, such as iron, zinc, and magnesium. Additionally, walnuts are a great source of antioxidants, which can help reduce inflammation and protect your cells from damage.
The holidays are a time to celebrate with family and friends and food is often a center piece of the festivities. While it’s easy to get caught up in unhealthy eating habits, it’s important to make sure that you are also incorporating nutritious meals into your holiday repertoire. This quinoa stuffed acorn squash is a great way to do just that and is sure to be a hit with family and friends alike. Enjoy the holidays with delicious and healthy food that will nourish your body and soul.
