Apple Sage Stuffed Squash Recipe Vegetarian and Delicious

As the seasons shift and the cooler air invites us to cozy up in the kitchen, there’s nothing quite like a hearty, flavorful vegetarian dish to warm the soul. Enter the Apple Sage Stuffed Squash — a perfect blend of autumn’s bounty wrapped inside tender roasted squash.

This recipe captures the sweet-tart essence of crisp apples paired with the earthy, aromatic notes of fresh sage, all nestled inside a delicate, naturally sweet squash. It’s not only a feast for the eyes but also a satisfying meal that brings comfort and nourishment to your table.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or simply looking to add a wholesome, seasonal recipe to your repertoire, this stuffed squash delivers on taste, texture, and nutrition. Plus, it’s simple enough to prepare on a weeknight yet elegant enough to serve as a centerpiece for holiday gatherings.

Ready to discover why this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your kitchen? Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Apple Sage Stuffed Squash recipe combines fresh, wholesome ingredients that celebrate the flavors of fall. Here’s why it stands out:

• Seasonal Ingredients: Using butternut or acorn squash, fresh apples, and fragrant sage, it’s a celebration of autumn’s best produce.
• Vegetarian & Nutritious: Packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, this dish makes a healthy and filling meal.
• Simple Preparation: With easy steps and straightforward ingredients, even beginners can master this recipe.
• Versatile & Customizable: Feel free to add nuts, grains, or cheese to tailor the stuffing to your taste.
• Beautiful Presentation: Served in the squash shell, it’s a stunning dish perfect for entertaining or a cozy dinner.

Ingredients

• 2 medium acorn or butternut squash, halved and seeded
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 1 large apple (such as Honeycrisp or Fuji), peeled, cored, and diced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup cooked quinoa or wild rice (optional for added texture)
• 1/4 cup walnuts or pecans, chopped (optional)
• 2 tablespoons fresh sage, chopped
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries or raisins (optional)
• 1/4 cup shredded vegetarian cheese or vegan alternative (optional)

Equipment

• Sharp chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Baking sheet or roasting pan
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spoon or small ice cream scoop (for stuffing)
• Aluminum foil (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the squash: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Using a sharp knife, carefully halve the squash lengthwise and scoop out the seeds and stringy pulp. Brush the cut sides with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and sprinkle lightly with salt and pepper.
2. Roast the squash: Place the squash halves cut side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. Roast for about 30-40 minutes, or until the flesh is tender when pierced with a fork. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.
3. Prepare the stuffing: While the squash roasts, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
4. Add garlic and apples: Stir in the minced garlic and diced apple. Cook for another 4-5 minutes until the apples soften slightly.
5. Mix in grains and nuts: Add the cooked quinoa or wild rice (if using), chopped nuts, dried cranberries, and fresh sage to the skillet. Stir to combine and cook for 2-3 minutes to meld flavors.
6. Season the stuffing: Sprinkle in the ground cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Remove the skillet from heat.
7. Scoop the squash flesh: Once the squash is cool enough to handle, use a spoon or small ice cream scoop to carefully remove some of the flesh, leaving about a 1/2-inch border to keep the shell sturdy. Add the scooped flesh to the stuffing mixture and stir well.
8. Fill the squash: Spoon the stuffing mixture back into the squash shells, mounding it slightly. If desired, sprinkle the tops with shredded vegetarian or vegan cheese for a melty finish.
9. Bake the stuffed squash: Return the filled squash halves to the baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese melts and the stuffing is heated through.
10. Serve warm: Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with extra fresh sage if desired.

Tips & Variations

“For an extra boost of flavor, try toasting the nuts before adding them to the stuffing—it brings out their natural oils and enhances the crunch!”

• Grain options: Substitute quinoa or wild rice with couscous, farro, or even cooked barley to vary texture and flavor.
• Nut-free version: Omit nuts if allergies are a concern and add extra dried fruit or seeds like pumpkin or sunflower to maintain crunch.
• Vegan cheese: Use plant-based cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
• Make it gluten-free: Ensure your grains and dried fruits are certified gluten-free and avoid breadcrumbs or other fillers.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for subtle heat and smoky depth.
• Advance prep: Prepare the stuffing a day ahead and refrigerate. Stuff and bake the squash just before serving for convenience.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This stuffed squash pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal. For a cozy dinner, try serving alongside a warm bowl of soup such as butternut squash bisque or a simple tomato basil soup.

To elevate your meal, consider serving a crusty bread like our Green Chile Cheese Bread Recipe or a light side of steamed Half Runner Beans Recipe. For dessert, a comforting treat like Grandma’S Old Fashioned Bread Pudding With Vanilla Sauce Recipe makes a perfect finish.

Conclusion

Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply enjoy a wholesome, seasonal meal, this Apple Sage Stuffed Squash recipe is a delicious and nourishing choice. Its combination of sweet apples, savory sage, and hearty grains tucked inside tender roasted squash makes each bite a celebration of autumn’s best flavors.

Easy to prepare yet elegant in presentation, this dish is perfect for family dinners or holiday feasts. Plus, its vegetarian nature means it can easily be adapted to accommodate vegan or gluten-free diets, ensuring everyone at your table can enjoy it.

Give this recipe a try and watch it become a new favorite in your recipe collection!

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