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As the leaves begin to change and a crispness fills the air, the arrival of autumn ushers in a bounty of seasonal ingredients that inspire heartwarming meals. One such ingredient that epitomizes the essence of fall is acorn squash. This charming, green and yellow-hued gourd is not only visually appealing but also offers a delightful sweetness that makes it perfect for stuffing with an array of nourishing fillings. The recipe for Autumn Harvest Stuffed Acorn Squash captures the spirit of the season, combining wholesome ingredients into a hearty dish that is ideal for fall gatherings, family dinners, or even a cozy night in.

Stuffed Acorn Squash with Wild Rice

Experience the flavors of autumn with this delicious Autumn Harvest Stuffed Acorn Squash recipe. Perfectly tender acorn squash is stuffed with a hearty blend of wild rice, seasonal vegetables, and sweet dried cranberries, creating a mouthwatering dish that's both nourishing and satisfying. Embrace the essence of fall as you gather around the table with family and friends, enjoying a meal that celebrates the bounty of the season. This recipe is a delightful way to savor the warmth of autumn!
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Ingredients
  

2 medium acorn squashes, halved and seeds removed

1 cup wild rice, thoroughly rinsed and drained

2 cups vegetable broth (or water)

1 tablespoon olive oil (plus extra for drizzling)

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup mushrooms, diced (such as cremini or button)

1 medium carrot, diced

1 celery stalk, diced

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon dried sage

½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

¼ teaspoon black pepper (or more if you like a kick)

½ cup dried cranberries

½ cup walnuts, chopped (optional for a delightful crunch)

Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for roasting the squash.

    Prepare the Squash: Arrange the halved acorn squashes, cut side up, on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Drizzle each half with olive oil, and sprinkle generously with salt and black pepper. Roast in the preheated oven for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until the flesh is tender when pierced with a fork.

      Cook the Wild Rice: While the squash is roasting, bring a pot of vegetable broth (or water) to a boil. Once boiling, add the rinsed wild rice and reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 45-50 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Once cooked, fluff the rice gently with a fork and set aside.

        Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat an additional tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, around 3-4 minutes. Next, add the minced garlic, diced mushrooms, carrot, and celery, and continue sautéing for another 5-7 minutes until all vegetables are softened and fragrant.

          Combine Filling: In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the cooked wild rice, sautéed vegetable mixture, dried cranberries, and walnuts (if using). Sprinkle in the dried thyme, sage, salt, and black pepper, then mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well integrated.

            Stuff the Squash: Carefully remove the roasted acorn squashes from the oven. Using a spoon, gently fill each half with the wild rice filling, pressing down slightly to ensure the mixture is packed in nicely.

              Return to Oven: Place the stuffed squashes back in the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully while giving the tops a delightful crisp.

                Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove the stuffed squash from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving to add a burst of color and freshness.

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

                    20 minutes | 1 hour 15 minutes | 4 servings

                      - Presentation Tips: Serve the stuffed acorn squash on a rustic wooden platter, and sprinkle extra cranberries and walnuts around the base for a festive touch. Enjoy the seasonal flavors and colorful presentation!