Delicata Squash with Nutty Wild Rice Stuffing: A Festive Fall Feast

Delicata squash, with its tender skin and subtly sweet flesh, is a true harbinger of autumn. Unlike many other winter squashes, the skin of delicata is edible, making it incredibly convenient to prepare. This recipe elevates the humble delicata squash into a stunning and satisfying main course, perfect for a vegetarian Thanksgiving option, a cozy weeknight dinner, or any fall gathering. The nutty wild rice stuffing, studded with cranberries, pecans, and sage, complements the squash’s sweetness beautifully, creating a symphony of flavors and textures that will delight your taste buds.

## Why Delicata Squash is a Fall Favorite

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s appreciate why delicata squash is so beloved:

* **Edible Skin:** No peeling required! This saves time and effort, making it a weeknight winner.
* **Sweet and Mild Flavor:** Its delicate sweetness pairs well with a variety of fillings and seasonings.
* **Elegant Presentation:** The oblong shape and creamy color of delicata squash make it a visually appealing dish.
* **Nutrient-Rich:** Delicata squash is a good source of vitamins A and C, as well as fiber and potassium.

## Ingredients for Delicata Squash with Nutty Wild Rice Stuffing

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious dish:

**For the Delicata Squash:**

* 2 medium delicata squash, halved lengthwise and seeds removed
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
* 1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional, for drizzling)

**For the Nutty Wild Rice Stuffing:**

* 1 cup wild rice, cooked according to package directions
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 cup cremini mushrooms, sliced
* 1/2 cup dried cranberries
* 1/2 cup pecans, toasted and chopped
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh sage
* 1/4 cup vegetable broth (or water)
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

**Optional Garnishes:**

* Chopped fresh parsley
* Toasted pumpkin seeds
* Crumbled goat cheese (if not vegan)

## Equipment Needed

* Baking sheet
* Large skillet
* Mixing bowl
* Measuring cups and spoons
* Sharp knife

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed instructions to create perfectly stuffed and roasted delicata squash:

**1. Prepare the Delicata Squash:**

* Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
* Wash the delicata squash thoroughly. Since you’ll be eating the skin, it’s important to remove any dirt or debris.
* Halve the squash lengthwise. Use a sharp knife to carefully cut each squash in half from stem to stern.
* Scoop out the seeds and stringy pulp. A spoon or ice cream scoop works well for this. Discard the seeds or save them for roasting later.
* Drizzle the squash halves with olive oil. Use about 1 tablespoon of olive oil for both halves, ensuring each cut surface is lightly coated.
* Season with salt and pepper. Sprinkle evenly with salt and pepper to enhance the squash’s natural flavors.
* Place the squash halves cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet. Arrange them so they’re not overcrowded.

**2. Cook the Wild Rice:**

* Cook wild rice according to the package directions. Usually, this involves rinsing the wild rice and simmering it in water or broth until tender. Generally, it takes about 45-50 minutes to cook. Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork.

**3. Prepare the Nutty Stuffing:**

* Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Use the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil for the stuffing.
* Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
* Add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms. Cook for another 3-5 minutes, until the mushrooms are tender and have released their moisture. Stir frequently.
* Stir in the cooked wild rice, dried cranberries, toasted pecans, and chopped sage. Combine all the ingredients thoroughly.
* Add the vegetable broth (or water) to moisten the stuffing. This will help to bind the ingredients together and prevent the stuffing from drying out during baking. Stir well.
* Season with salt and pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

**4. Stuff the Squash:**

* Spoon the wild rice stuffing into the cavity of each delicata squash half. Pack the stuffing firmly, mounding it slightly above the edges of the squash.

**5. Bake the Stuffed Squash:**

* Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the squash is tender and the stuffing is heated through. A fork should easily pierce the flesh of the squash when it’s done.

**6. Optional: Drizzle with Maple Syrup:**

* For a touch of extra sweetness, drizzle the baked squash halves with maple syrup during the last 5 minutes of baking. This will create a beautiful glaze and enhance the overall flavor.

**7. Garnish and Serve:**

* Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the squash cool slightly before serving.
* Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, toasted pumpkin seeds, or crumbled goat cheese (if desired). These garnishes add visual appeal and extra flavor.
* Serve the stuffed delicata squash warm as a main course or side dish.

## Tips for Success

* **Choose the Right Squash:** Look for delicata squash that are firm, heavy for their size, and free of blemishes. The skin should be smooth and creamy in color with green stripes.
* **Don’t Overcook the Wild Rice:** Overcooked wild rice can become mushy. Follow the package directions carefully and check for doneness frequently.
* **Toast the Pecans:** Toasting the pecans before adding them to the stuffing enhances their flavor and texture. You can toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring constantly, until fragrant and lightly browned.
* **Adjust the Seasonings:** Taste the stuffing before filling the squash and adjust the seasonings as needed. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or herbs to suit your preferences.
* **Make it Vegan:** This recipe is naturally vegetarian. To make it vegan, simply omit the goat cheese garnish.
* **Prepare Ahead:** You can cook the wild rice and prepare the stuffing a day in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator and assemble the squash just before baking.
* **Roast the Seeds:** Don’t throw away the squash seeds! Toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast them in the oven for a delicious and healthy snack.

## Variations and Substitutions

* **Different Nuts:** Substitute walnuts, almonds, or pistachios for the pecans.
* **Other Dried Fruit:** Use dried cherries, apricots, or raisins instead of cranberries.
* **Different Herbs:** Try thyme, rosemary, or oregano in place of sage.
* **Add Protein:** Include cooked quinoa, lentils, or chickpeas in the stuffing for extra protein.
* **Spice it Up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the stuffing for a touch of heat.
* **Use Different Squash:** While delicata is ideal, you could also use acorn squash or small butternut squash.

## Serving Suggestions

This stuffed delicata squash is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways:

* **Main Course:** Serve it as a vegetarian main course for Thanksgiving or any fall dinner.
* **Side Dish:** Accompany it with roasted chicken, pork, or fish for a balanced meal.
* **Potluck Dish:** Bring it to a potluck or holiday gathering. It’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
* **Lunch:** Enjoy it as a healthy and satisfying lunch.

## Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)

* Calories: 350-450
* Protein: 8-12g
* Fat: 15-20g
* Carbohydrates: 50-60g
* Fiber: 8-10g

(Note: Nutritional information may vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)

## Storing and Reheating

* **Storing:** Store leftover stuffed delicata squash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
* **Reheating:** Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in a skillet over medium heat.

## A Recipe for Fall Festivities

This Delicata Squash with Nutty Wild Rice Stuffing is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to embrace the flavors and aromas of autumn. The combination of sweet squash, savory stuffing, and crunchy nuts creates a truly unforgettable dining experience. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and prepare to be transported to a world of culinary delight. Whether you’re celebrating Thanksgiving or simply enjoying a cozy weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to become a new fall favorite.

Enjoy the process, savor the flavors, and share this delicious creation with your loved ones!

### More Delicious Fall Recipes

* Roasted Butternut Squash Soup
* Apple Crisp with Oat Streusel Topping
* Pumpkin Pie with Gingersnap Crust
* Cranberry Sauce with Orange and Ginger
* Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Crumble

These recipes pair perfectly with the Delicata Squash with Nutty Wild Rice Stuffing, creating a complete and satisfying fall feast.

## Recipe Card

**Delicata Squash with Nutty Wild Rice Stuffing**

A festive and flavorful vegetarian dish perfect for fall gatherings.

**Prep Time:** 20 minutes

**Cook Time:** 40 minutes

**Serves:** 4

**Ingredients:**

* 2 medium delicata squash, halved lengthwise and seeds removed
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
* 1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional, for drizzling)
* 1 cup wild rice, cooked
* 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 cup cremini mushrooms, sliced
* 1/2 cup dried cranberries
* 1/2 cup pecans, toasted and chopped
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh sage
* 1/4 cup vegetable broth

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare squash.
2. Sauté onion and garlic. Add mushrooms and cook until tender.
3. Combine cooked rice, cranberries, pecans, sage, and broth. Season.
4. Stuff squash with rice mixture.
5. Bake for 30-40 minutes until squash is tender. Drizzle with maple syrup (optional).
6. Garnish and serve.

**Enjoy!**

This recipe is a celebration of fall flavors and a perfect addition to any autumn menu.