Quinoa and Mushroom Stuffed Acorn Squash

Step 1

Preheat the oven to 400˚. Place the squash on a large rimmed baking sheet, rub all over with the olive oil and sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon salt. Roast cut-side down until tender, about 30 minutes.

Step 2

Meanwhile, melt 5 tablespoons butter with the maple syrup and rosemary in a small saucepan over low heat. Set aside until the squash is done.

Step 3

Turn the squash cut-side up and brush with 2 tablespoons of the maple butter; reserve the remaining maple butter for serving. Return the squash to the oven and roast until slightly caramelized and very tender, 5 to 10 minutes more.

Step 4

Meanwhile, cook the quinoa according to the package directions.

Step 5

Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons butter in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-low heat. Add the shallot and cook, stirring, until softened and golden, 8 to 10 minutes. Increase the heat to medium high; add the mushrooms and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Cook, stirring, until golden, 4 to 6 minutes. Remove from the heat.

Step 6

Combine the quinoa, parsley, parmesan, almonds, mushroom mixture and 1/2 teaspoon each salt and pepper in a large bowl and toss. Stuff into the squash halves and drizzle with the remaining maple butter.