Acorn Squash Stuffed With Quinoa And Fruit

Directions

1. This is a good main dish for Thanksgiving or possibly other winter dinners. You may prepare the stuffing mix ahead and fill the squash as directed just before the meal. For variety, you may bake the stuffing in a casserole as a side dish.
2. 1. Preheat the oven to 350 . Coat a large baking dish or possibly roasting pan with no-stick spray.
3. 2. Cut the squash in half lengthwise; scoop out and throw away the seeds.
4. Place the halves, cut side down, in the prepared dish. Bake for 30 min.
5. 3. Meanwhile, in a 2-qt saucepan over medium-high heat, bring the stock to a boil. Add in the quinoa; stir and reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20 to 25 min, or possibly till the liquid has been absorbed. Remove from the heat and let stand for 5 min. Fluff with a fork.
6. 4. In a large no-stick frying pan, heat the margarine. Add in the apples, pears, apricots and walnuts; cook, stirring frequently, for 5 min.
7. Stir in the honey, cinnamon, mace, allspice and cardamom; cook for 2 min.
8. 5. Transfer to a large bowl. Add in the quinoa and mix well.
9. 6. Turn the squash cut side up. Divide the quinoa mix among them.
10. (If there is any extra filling, place it in a small casserole dish.) Bake for 15 min, or possibly till the squash are tender.
11. Preparation Time: 15 min
12. Cooking Time: 75 min
13. Makes: 8 servings