Description
Avocado Black Bean Stuffed Acorn Squash is a hearty vegetarian meal featuring roasted acorn squash filled with a flavorful mix of black beans, creamy avocado, sweet corn, juicy cherry tomatoes, and fresh herbs with a zesty lime and lemon touch. This nutritious and satisfying dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or a cozy autumn-inspired meal.
Ingredients
For the Squash
- 2 acorn squash, halved and seeds removed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
For the Filling
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ¼ cup red onion, finely diced
- ¼ cup chopped cilantro
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Squash: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Brush the acorn squash halves with olive oil, then season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Roast the Squash: Place the squash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet and roast in the preheated oven for 40–45 minutes, or until the flesh is tender and easily pierced with a fork.
- Prepare the Filling: While the squash roasts, combine the drained black beans, diced avocado, corn kernels, halved cherry tomatoes, finely diced red onion, chopped cilantro, lime juice, olive oil, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl. Stir gently to combine all ingredients evenly without mashing the avocado.
- Stuff the Squash: Once the squash is roasted and slightly cooled, fill each squash half generously with the black bean and avocado mixture.
- Garnish and Serve: Optionally garnish with extra chopped cilantro. Serve warm or at room temperature for a delicious and filling vegetarian main dish.
Notes
- Add feta or cotija cheese if you prefer a creamier, tangier twist.
- This dish can be served warm right out of the oven or at room temperature, making it perfect for meal prep or potlucks.
- To add extra flavor, consider drizzling with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice alongside the lime juice for a citrusy brightness.
- If you want a spicier dish, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeño to the filling mix.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
