On the one hand, during the months of November and December, I want to be on super saintly eating behavior in my own kitchen. On the other hand, it’s the HOLIDAYS. It’s a special time of year, and we both know that last slice of Pumpkin Sheet Cake is not going to eat itself. This Instant Pot stuffed acorn squash meets me halfway.
It’s packed with cozy holiday flavors.Ingredients such as cranberries, nutty wild rice, and thyme make this dish wholesome.Like many of my favorite holiday recipes, this stuffed acorn squash tastes unique enough to serve as a side at a special holiday meal but is healthy and hearty enough to stand on its own for a light lunch or dinner.
The key ingredient that makes this stuffed acorn squash healthy and filling is chickpeas. Canned chickpeas are one of my pantry staples. They are:
InexpensiveRich in fiber and proteinIncredibly versatile
In fact, I have an entire section of my recipe index dedicated to chickpeas. I love these little beans!
How to Make Instant Pot Stuffed Acorn Squash
Instant pot acorn squash is my latest pressure cooker fixation. Instead of roasting the squash for an hour plus in the oven, the squash halves are cooked until perfectly tender in an Instant Pot. If you don’t own an Instant Pot, you can easily make the acorn squash in the oven instead. It will take a bit longer, but the results will still be delicious.
Ingredients
Acorn Squash. Functions as a tasty, edible vessel for all of the wonderful filling ingredients.Chickpeas. Provides essential protein and fiber to this vegan stuffed squash recipe.Wild Rice. Adds some extra bulk and additional fiber.Cranberries. Lends just the right amount of sweetness to balance the savory flavors in the recipe.Mushrooms. Gives this dish a comforting, earthy flavor and aroma.Pepitas. Or pecans, if you prefer. Either option adds a satisfying crunch that contrasts the tender squash, rice, and chickpeas.
Directions
How to Store and Reheat Instant Pot Stuffed Acorn Squash
To Store. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.To Reheat. Reheat gently in the microwave or cover and reheat in the oven.
For a holiday reset that doesn’t feel like one, give this wild rice, cranberry, and chickpea stuffed acorn squash a try. It will give you the feeling of cozy holiday comfort that makes this a wonderful time of year and leave you extra wiggle room for that one last cream cheese sugar cookie too.
Other Delicious Stuffed Squash Recipes
Sausage Stuffed Acorn SquashStuffed Butternut Squash with Quinoa, Cranberries, and KaleTaco Spaghetti Squash BoatsSpaghetti Squash Boats with Chicken and Bacon
