Description
Avocado Black Bean Stuffed Acorn Squash is a hearty and nutritious vegetarian dish featuring roasted acorn squash halves filled with a vibrant mixture of creamy avocado, black beans, sweet corn, cherry tomatoes, fresh cilantro, and zesty lime juice. This Mexican-inspired, gluten-free meal is perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner or easy meal prep, combining wholesome flavors and textures for a delicious and colorful presentation.
Ingredients
For the Squash
- 2 acorn squash, halved and seeds removed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Filling
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ¼ cup red onion, finely diced
- ¼ cup chopped cilantro
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp cumin
- ½ tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for roasting the acorn squash.
- Prepare the Squash: Brush the cut sides of the acorn squash halves with olive oil and season them evenly with salt and black pepper to enhance flavor during roasting.
- Roast the Squash: Place the squash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet and roast in the oven for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the flesh is tender when pierced with a fork.
- Make the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the drained black beans, diced avocado, corn kernels, halved cherry tomatoes, finely diced red onion, chopped cilantro, lime juice, olive oil, cumin, chili powder, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix gently to combine without mashing the avocado.
- Stuff the Squash: Once roasted, carefully flip the squash halves cut-side up and fill each cavity generously with the prepared black bean and avocado mixture.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with additional chopped cilantro if desired and serve the stuffed squash warm or at room temperature for a satisfying meal.
Notes
- For added richness and a tangy flavor, sprinkle crumbled feta or cotija cheese over the filling before serving.
- This dish can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making it versatile for meal prep and leftovers.
- Adjust the seasoning and spices according to your taste preferences for more or less heat.
- To make this dish vegan, omit any cheese toppings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
