Wild Rice Stuffed Acorn: 5 Reasons to Fall in Love

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Wild Rice Stuffed Acorn is a hearty and nutritious dish perfect for Thanksgiving, featuring roasted acorn squash filled with wild rice, vegetables, and herbs. This delightful recipe combines earthy flavors with a touch of sweetness from cranberries, making it a memorable centerpiece for your holiday table. The blend of textures and tastes will surely impress your guests, and it’s an ideal option for those seeking a delicious vegetarian dish.

Why You’ll Love This Wild Rice Stuffed Acorn

There are countless reasons to love this wild rice stuffed acorn. First, it’s a great way to incorporate seasonal vegetables into your meal. Secondly, it’s rich in nutrients, making it a healthy option for any occasion. This recipe is also gluten-free and vegetarian, accommodating various dietary preferences. Additionally, the combination of wild rice and pecans provides a satisfying crunch while the dried cranberries add a hint of sweetness. Lastly, it’s a beautiful dish that enhances the visual appeal of your table, perfect for special occasions like Thanksgiving. You’ll also find it easy to prepare, ensuring you can spend more time with your loved ones.

Ingredients for Wild Rice Stuffed Acorn

Gather these items:

2 medium acorn squash, halved and seeded
1 cup wild rice, rinsed
2 cups vegetable broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 stalk celery, diced
1 carrot, diced
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1/2 cup chopped pecans
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried sage
Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Wild Rice Stuffed Acorn Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Step 2: Place squash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet. Roast for 30 minutes.
Step 3: In a saucepan, cook wild rice in vegetable broth according to package instructions. Drain any excess liquid.
Step 4: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion, garlic, celery, and carrot until softened, about 5 minutes.
Step 5: Stir in cooked wild rice, cranberries, pecans, thyme, sage, salt, and pepper.
Step 6: Flip roasted squash halves, fill with wild rice mixture, and bake for another 15 minutes.
Step 7: Serve warm.

Pro Tips for the Best Wild Rice Stuffed Acorn

Keep these in mind:

Always rinse wild rice before cooking to remove excess starch.
Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra flavor.
To make it a vegan wild rice stuffed acorn squash, simply omit the butter or any animal-derived ingredients.
Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness if using larger squash.

Best Ways to Serve Wild Rice Stuffed Acorn

This delightful dish can be served in various ways. Pair it with a fresh green salad to balance the warmth of the stuffed acorn squash. You can also accompany it with a side of roasted vegetables for an even more colorful plate. For a festive touch, serve with cranberry sauce or a light vinaigrette. This stuffed acorn squash recipe is not only visually appealing but also a nutritious choice that can satisfy your holiday cravings.

How to Store and Reheat Wild Rice Stuffed Acorn

To store leftovers, place the acorn squash filled with wild rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should last for up to three days. When ready to eat, reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, approximately 15-20 minutes. This makes it perfect for meal prep ahead of time, ensuring you have a delicious dish ready when you need it.

Frequently Asked Questions About Wild Rice Stuffed Acorn

What is Wild Rice Stuffed Acorn Squash?

Wild Rice Stuffed Acorn Squash is a delicious dish made by roasting acorn squash halves and filling them with a savory mixture of wild rice, vegetables, nuts, and herbs. It’s nutritious and great for vegetarian diets.

Can I make Wild Rice Stuffed Acorn ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the wild rice filling and roast the acorn squash ahead of time. Just assemble and bake shortly before serving for the best flavor and texture.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Wild Rice Stuffed Acorn?

Make sure to properly cook the wild rice before stuffing it into the squash. Avoid overcooking the acorn squash; it should be tender but not mushy, ensuring a delightful eating experience.

Variations of Wild Rice Stuffed Acorn You Can Try

There are many exciting variations to explore. For a wild rice acorn squash casserole, layer the ingredients in a baking dish instead of stuffing the squash. You can also add roasted mushrooms for an earthy flavor or substitute quinoa for a different texture. For a festive twist, try a holiday wild rice stuffed acorn recipe with spices like cinnamon and nutmeg.

For more delicious vegetarian recipes, check out this Tuscan white bean recipe or this creamy sausage potato chowder. If you’re interested in gluten-free options, you might enjoy this zucchini bread recipe as well.