Kale and wild rice stuffed winter squash recipe for a warming dish

Ingredients for Kale and wild rice–stuffed winter squash

• 60 ml extra virgin olive oil

• 2 acorn squash, cut in half, deseeded

• sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

• 240 g wild rice

• 1 shallot, finely chopped

• 6 Tuscan kale leaves, ribs removed, leaves finely chopped

• 5 ml Dijon mustard

• zest of 1 lemon

• handful of fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves, chopped

• 30 g toasted walnuts, chopped

• 30 g grated Pecorino Romano

How to make Kale and wild rice–stuffed winter squash

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (fan)/220°C (conventional).

2. Rub a small amount of oil inside the acorn squash and season with salt and pepper. Place the squash cut sides down on a baking tray. Bake for 35–40 minutes, until tender.

3. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice, 425 ml water, and ½ teaspoon salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then cover, reduce the heat to low, and cook for about 40 minutes, until the liquid is absorbed.

4. Swirl a small amount of oil in a medium frying pan and heat over medium heat until shimmering. Add the shallot and sauté for 1–2 minutes, until softened.

5. Add the kale to the frying pan and sauté for 2–3 minutes, until the leaves begin to wilt. Season with salt and pepper.

6. Stir in the cooked rice, Dijon mustard, and lemon zest, mixing well. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, adding a little oil if the rice seems too dry.

7. Stir in the parsley, walnuts, and Pecorino Romano until evenly combined.

8. Remove the squash from the oven and spoon the rice filling into each half. Serve hot.

Disclaimer
While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.