Discover a delightful fusion of flavors with our Paneer Stuffed Butternut Squash recipe! This Indian-inspired dish not only impresses with its vibrant colors and enticing aromas but also offers a hearty and nutritious meal perfect for any occasion. Imagine tender, roasted butternut squash filled with a savory paneer mixture, seasoned to perfection with aromatic spices. Whether you’re looking to wow your dinner guests or simply treat yourself to a comforting meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Ready to embark on a culinary adventure? Let’s dive into the details!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: Indian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 butternut squash, halved
- 200g paneer, crumbled
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Brush the inside of the squash with olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Place cut-side down on the baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes until the squash is tender when pierced with a fork.
- While the squash is roasting, prepare the paneer filling. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for 30 seconds.
- Add chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions become translucent and golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
- Crumble the paneer into the skillet and add garam masala. Stir and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the paneer is lightly golden and well-seasoned.
- Remove the squash from the oven and carefully flip it cut-side up. Use a fork to slightly mash the inner flesh, creating a shallow well.
- Generously fill each squash half with the prepared paneer mixture, pressing it gently into the squash.
- Return the stuffed squash to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the filling is heated through and the edges are slightly crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
- Serve hot as a main course, accompanied by a side of rice or naan bread.
Tips
- Choose the Right Squash: Look for a butternut squash that feels heavy for its size and has a smooth, firm skin. This ensures a sweeter and more flavorful dish.
- Customize the Filling: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or nuts to the paneer filling for extra texture and flavor. Spinach, bell peppers, or chopped walnuts work wonderfully!
- Don’t Rush the Roasting: Make sure to roast the squash until it’s tender. This step is crucial for enhancing the natural sweetness of the squash and achieving the best texture.
- Spice It Up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add some chopped green chilies to the paneer mixture for an extra kick!
- Serve with Style: For an impressive presentation, serve the stuffed squash on a bed of sautéed greens or with a drizzle of yogurt sauce.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the filling in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just stuff the squash and bake it when you're ready to serve!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 35mg
