Name: Quinoa & Spinach Delicata Squash
Prep time: 12 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 57 min
Ingredients: 1 delicata squash, (halved lengthwise ); 1 tbsp olive oil; pinch salt and pepper, (to taste); 1/2 cup quinoa; 1 cup spinach, (chopped); 1/4 cup chopped walnuts; 1/4 cup dried cranberries; 2 tbsp crispy fried onion ((optional))

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This Quinoa & Spinach Delicata Squash is a Vegan and Gluten-Free recipe. Each delicata squash is loaded with quinoa and spinach, chopped walnuts, dried cranberries and topped with crispy onions. A deliciously wholesome dish you can enjoy all season!

two delicata squash stuffed with quinoa and spinach, walnuts and cranberry on a black plate. A hand holding the plate.

Fall arrived and so has our craving for heartier and heavier, nutrient dense meals, soups and warm bowl. Meat is often one we reach for, whether that’s a finger licking Beef Short Ribs or Classic Beef Stew recipe or even an Oxtail Stew.

While it all sounds good, for me a balanced diet usually feels more dietary-friendly. Plus it gives me the opportunity to try all the yummy seasonal foods.

Luckily there are plenty of options to fuel our carb-craving selves with more than just a heavy meal.

I am mostly implying to the squash family, which is a lighter and incredibly delicious option for those who are on a low carb diet, plant based or just seeking balance and nutrition.

There are so many fascinating squash types out there, you just might want to try a few.

Today’s recipe shines light on one of our favorites; delicata squash. It’s easy to love delicata squash for its convenient size which makes it easy to handle, mild sweet flavor and versatility.

This quinoa and spinach stuffed delicata squash recipe is all around amazing. Each half can be served as an individual portion. The quinoa and spinach elevates the nutritional profile making this Vegan and gluten-free recipe a complete and satisfying meal.

delicata squash being cleaned with a spoon removing seeds.

Table of Contents

how to prepare delicata squash

Always start by washing the skin thoroughly, even scrub it with a vegetable brush and mild soap. Because we will not be removing the skin it is important that it’s very clean.
Slice in half lengthwise. For safety measures I like to rotate the squash to a position that feels supported and not likely to roll out of your hand as you slice it.
Use a spoon to clean the cavity. Remove all seeds and gunk (picture above)
Use a kitchen brush to coat the squash with olive oil (picture below)
Finally, season with salt and pepper (picture below)

delicata squash being brushed with olive oil

delicata squash being seasoned with salt and pepper.

delicata squash in a roasting plan. Seasonings on the table.

how to roast delicata squash

Roasting delicata squash is easy. Once you have prepared the squash following instructions above, place delicata slices cut down on a baking sheet.

There is no need to oil the pan since you’ve already oiled the squash. You can use parchment paper but you don’t need to.

Roast at 400F degrees for about 40-45 minutes. The squash should feel soft to touch and have amber gold color around the edges.

Once the delicata squash is roasted you can fill in with quinoa and spinach. Add fun touches such as dried cranberries, chopped walnuts and top with crispy onions (opt it out for gluten-free) or any crispy topping of choice.

roasted delicata squash out of the oven. Ingredients on the table

roasted delicata squash stuffed with quinoa, spinach, walnuts and cranberries

Fancy meals is all we are about during the holidays. Let me assure you that this gorgeous Delicata Squash loaded with delicious quinoa, fresh spinach, walnuts and cranberries, will look fantastic on your table!

here are some other crowd favorite holiday recipes ideas:

Appetizers – Salted Caramel Pumpkin Seeds

Breakfast – Cranberry Orange Oat Muffins (GF)

Breakfast/ snack/ dessert – Baked Apple Cider Donuts (GF)

Dessert – Chewy Chocolate Pecan Cookies

Dessert – Ginger Molasses Cookies

Dinner – Roast with Gravy and Potatoes

Dinner – Cranberry Chicken with Veggies

Drinks – Cranberry Wine Spritzer

Extras – Instant Pot Turkey Onion Gravy

Salads – Kale Pomegranate Salad

Sides – Sausage & Apple Stuffed Squash

Sides – Instant Pot Cranberry Sauce

Soup – Butternut Squash Soup

two delicata squash stuffed with quinoa and spinach, walnuts and cranberry on a black plate. A hand holding a fork.

If you make this Quinoa Spinach Delicata Squash recipe be sure to leave a comment and/or give this recipe a rating! I love to hear from you guys and always do my best to respond to each and every comment. And of course, if you do make this recipe, don’t forget to tag me on Instagram! Thanks a bunch!

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