WW Quinoa Stuffed Acorn Squash: Healthy & Christmas Delight

Elevate your Christmas feast with WW Quinoa Stuffed Acorn Squash, a dish that harmoniously blends the nutty essence of quinoa with the sweet, tender flesh of acorn squash.

This combination not only delights the palate but also offers a visually stunning centerpiece for your Christmas table. The medley of textures and flavors encapsulates the essence of the season, making it a memorable addition to your festive menu.

Nutrient-Rich & WW-Friendly

Indulging during the holidays doesn’t have to derail your health goals. This recipe is rich in vitamins A and C, which support immune function and skin health. Moreover, quinoa is a complete protein, containing all nine essential amino acids vital for metabolism, cognitive function, and immunity.

Incorporating these ingredients into your meal supports overall well-being during the indulgent holiday season.

Fun Fact: A Historical Delight

Did you know that acorn squash, sometimes called “Des Moines squash,” has been a staple in North American diets for centuries?

Native Americans introduced this versatile vegetable to European settlers, and it has since become a beloved ingredient in various cuisines.

Its rich history adds a touch of tradition to your holiday meal, connecting the past with the present in a delicious way.

By choosing this dish, you’re not only treating your taste buds but also honoring a culinary legacy that spans generations.

Table of Contents

Look at the Recipe (key Highlights)

Let’s dive into what makes this WW Quinoa Stuffed Acorn Squash an absolute must-try! Here are its standout highlights:

1. Feast for the Eyes and Stomach

This dish isn’t just delicious; it’s visually stunning! The vibrant golden acorn squash paired with the colorful quinoa stuffing makes it perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to holiday spreads.

2. Healthy, WW-Friendly Option

Each serving is low in calories, high in fiber, and packed with nutrients. With only 4 WW SmartPoints per serving (on the Blue Plan), it’s a guilt-free way to enjoy comfort food.

3. Seasonal Ingredients, Maximum Flavor

Using ingredients like apples, cranberries, and squash ensures this dish is bursting with fall and winter flavors. Plus, the warm spices like cinnamon, sage, and thyme make it oh-so-cozy.

4. Naturally Gluten-Free and Vegetarian

Whether you’re gluten-sensitive or following a vegetarian diet, this dish ticks all the boxes. It’s wholesome, plant-based, and naturally gluten-free without any substitutions needed.

5. Customizable and Family-Friendly

Got picky eaters at home? No problem! You can easily swap the cranberries for raisins or even add nuts for extra crunch. My kids love the slight sweetness from the apple and optional maple syrup.

6. Perfect for Meal Prep

Make a batch and save the leftovers—they reheat beautifully! This stuffed squash is a lifesaver for busy weeknights or even next-day lunches.

This recipe is one of my all-time favorites, blending healthy, Weight Watchers-friendly eating with the indulgence of a comforting, seasonal meal. Are you excited to try it yet? 😊

Ingredients Needed

• Acorn Squash: A naturally sweet and tender base for stuffing.
• Quinoa: A protein-rich grain that forms the stuffing base.
• Vegetables: Onion, celery, mushrooms for texture and flavor.
• Fruits: Apples and cranberries for sweetness and tartness.
• Spices and Herbs: Sage, thyme, cinnamon to bring depth and warmth.
• Seasoning and Oil: Olive oil, salt, and pepper for roasting and flavor.
• Optional: Maple syrup for a touch of sweetness.

How to Make WW Quinoa Stuffed Acorn Squash

Main Steps:

Prepare and Roast Squash: Halve the squash, scoop out seeds, and roast cut-side up until tender and caramelized.

Cook Quinoa: Simmer quinoa in vegetable broth until fluffy.

Sauté Ingredients for Stuffing: Cook onions, celery, apples, mushrooms, and cranberries with herbs and spices until tender.

Combine and Fill: Mix the quinoa with the sautéed mixture, adjust seasoning, and stuff the roasted squash halves.

Bake Again: Bake the stuffed squash until the tops are golden and slightly crispy.

Storage & Serving Tips

Let’s make sure you get the most out of your WW Quinoa Stuffed Acorn Squash—from storing leftovers to serving them like a pro!

Storage Tips:

1. Refrigerate Like a Boss
   Got leftovers? Pop the stuffed squash halves into an airtight container or cover them tightly with foil. They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. Perfect for meal-prepping!
2. Freeze for Future You
   Want to enjoy this dish weeks from now? Wrap the cooled stuffed squash tightly in plastic wrap or place them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll last up to 2 months. When ready, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven for best results.
3. Reheat to Perfection
   To reheat, place the squash in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. The stuffing stays crisp, and the squash retains its tender texture.

Serving Tips:

1. Pair with a Simple Salad
   A light green salad with a zesty vinaigrette is a perfect complement. It keeps the meal fresh and balanced.
2. Add a Little Garnish
   Sprinkle some fresh parsley or pomegranate seeds over the top for extra flair and a pop of color.
3. Serve as a Side or Main
   Hosting a big dinner? Use this as an elegant side dish. Want it to shine on its own? It’s hearty enough to stand tall as the main course.
4. Perfect with a Bowl of Soup
   Pair with a cozy soup like butternut squash or tomato basil for the ultimate fall or winter comfort meal.

Whether you’re saving some for later or plating it up right away, this recipe is as versatile as it is delicious. And let’s be honest—those leftovers make your next meal extra easy and just as fabulous! 😊

Tips & FAQs

What Does Acorn Squash Pair Well With?

Acorn squash pairs wonderfully with sweet and savory flavors. Popular pairings include maple syrup, cinnamon, and brown sugar for sweetness or savory herbs like thyme, sage, and garlic. It’s a great match with hearty grains like quinoa, wild rice, or couscous, and proteins like roasted chicken or turkey make it a perfect side dish. For plant-based options, pair it with chickpeas or lentils to create a balanced meal.

Do You Eat the Skin of Stuffed Acorn Squash?

Yes, you can eat the skin of stuffed acorn squash! When cooked, the skin becomes tender and is rich in nutrients like fiber and antioxidants. If you prefer a smoother texture, the flesh can easily be scooped out, leaving the skin behind. Whether you eat it or not is entirely up to your taste preference.

Is Acorn Squash a Carb or a Vegetable?

Acorn squash is a starchy vegetable, meaning it’s a nutrient-rich vegetable with a higher carbohydrate content compared to non-starchy vegetables like broccoli or spinach. However, it’s packed with vitamins A and C, potassium, and fiber, making it a healthier carb choice for a balanced diet.

Can You Lose Weight Eating Acorn Squash?

Yes, acorn squash can support weight loss! It’s low in calories but high in fiber, which helps keep you full longer and supports healthy digestion. Incorporating acorn squash into balanced meals, like stuffing it with quinoa or lean proteins, makes it an excellent choice for weight management.

Can I Use Other Grains Instead of Quinoa?

Absolutely! If quinoa isn’t your preference, you can substitute it with other grains like farro, brown rice, couscous, or bulgur. These grains work well as a stuffing base and complement the flavors of acorn squash. Just adjust the cooking time and liquid amounts to suit the grain you choose.

Health Benefits & WW Compatibility

This WW Quinoa Stuffed Acorn Squash is not only delicious but also aligns perfectly with the Weight Watchers program. Each serving is low in calories and packed with nutrients, making it an excellent choice for those seeking healthy pasta options for the Weight Watchers diet.

Acorn Squash:

• Rich in dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain a feeling of fullness.
• Contains vitamins A and C, essential for immune function and skin health.
• Provides antioxidants that may reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Quinoa:

• A complete protein source, containing all nine essential amino acids.
• High in fiber, promoting satiety and aiding in weight management.
• Gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

By combining these ingredients, this dish offers a balanced meal that supports weight loss and overall health. It’s a fantastic example of a low-point pasta dish for Weight Watchers, providing a satisfying alternative to traditional pasta recipes.

I’d love to hear how you make it your own! Leave a comment below and let me know how it turned out, or share a photo of your dish on social media and tag me.

Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family who are looking for the WW Quinoa Stuffed Acorn Squash—they’ll thank you for it! 🥚✨

Print Recipe

Healthy

WW Quinoa Stuffed Acorn Squash: Healthy & Christmas Delight

Author: Kristy Cook Cooking Method: Roasting, Sauteing Cuisine: American Courses: Gluten-Free, Main Course, Side Dishes, Weight Watcher Lunch, Weight Watcher Snack, Weight Watchers Recipes Recipe Keys: Gluten Free Kid-Friendly Quick Meals

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 10 mins Cook Time 45 mins Rest Time 10 mins Total Time 1 hr 5 mins

Cooking Temp: 220  C Servings: 6 Estimated Cost: $ 13 Calories: 230

Best Season: Winter, Fall

Description

A festive and healthy dish, WW Quinoa Stuffed Acorn Squash combines roasted acorn squash with a savory quinoa stuffing filled with apples, cranberries, and warm spices. Perfect for Christmas or any holiday gathering, this Weight Watchers-friendly recipe is as beautiful as it is nutritious.

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

For the Squash:

• 3 Medium Acorn Squash: (Choose squash that feels heavy for its size with a firm skin.)
• 2 tablespoons Olive Oil: (For brushing the squash.)
• Himalayan Salt & Cracked Black Pepper: (To season.)
• Pure Maple Syrup (Optional)

For the Stuffing:

• ³⁄₄ cup Dry Quinoa: (A protein-packed base.)
• 1 ¹⁄₂ cups Low-Sodium Vegetable Broth: (Adds flavor to the quinoa.)
• 1 Small Onion, Finely Diced: (A classic aromatic.)
• 1 Finely Diced Stalk Celery: (Adds crunch and freshness.)
• 1 Large Apple, Diced: (Choose a firm variety like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith.)
• 8 Oz Cremini Mushrooms, Diced: (Earthy and meaty.)
• ¹⁄₂ cup Cranberries (Fresh or Frozen)
• 3 Cloves Garlic, Minced: (For depth of flavor.)
• 1 Tsp 1 Sage, 1 Tsp Thyme, ½ Tsp Cinnamon: (Classic herbs and spices for warmth.)
• Himalayan Salt & Cracked Black Pepper: (Adjust to taste.)

Instructions

Step 1: Roast the Squash

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Prepare the squash by cutting them horizontally in half and scooping out the seeds. Trim the bottoms slightly to help them stand upright. Brush the interiors with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and roast cut-side up on a baking sheet for 35-45 minutes, until fork-tender.

Step 2: Cook the Quinoa

1. While the squash is roasting, combine the quinoa and vegetable broth in a pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cover. Cook for 15-20 minutes until the quinoa absorbs the broth and turns fluffy. Fluff with a fork and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Stuffing

1. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion, celery, and apple until softened, about 5-6 minutes. Add the mushrooms, cranberries, garlic, and spices. Continue cooking until the mushrooms release their moisture and the cranberries soften, 7-9 minutes. Mix in the cooked quinoa and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 4: Stuff and Bake

1. Fill each roasted squash half with the quinoa mixture. Optionally, drizzle with olive oil for a crispy topping. Return to the oven for 10-15 minutes, until the stuffing is lightly browned.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 6

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Amount Per Serving

Calories 230kcal

% Daily Value *

Total Fat 7g11%

Total Carbohydrate 35g12%

Dietary Fiber 5g20%

Protein 5g10%

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Points per serving 4

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Creating this WW Quinoa Stuffed Acorn Squash was a labor of love, inspired by the festive flavors of the season. My husband, who’s a big fan of hearty meals, was amazed by how filling and flavorful this dish turned out. My kids, who usually steer clear of anything “green,” couldn’t get enough of the sweet cranberries and tender squash—it was a Christmas miracle! Seeing their plates wiped clean made my heart so full. This recipe has officially earned a spot on our holiday table, and I hope it brings as much joy to your family as it does to mine.

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