Ingredients
Scale
For the Stuffing:
- 1 medium pumpkin (about 4–5 pounds)
- 1 cup cooked quinoa (or rice)
- 1 cup cooked chickpeas (or black beans)
- 1 cup diced vegetables (bell peppers, onions, spinach)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (parsley or cilantro) for garnish
Instructions
Prepare the Pumpkin
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Hollow the Pumpkin: Cut the top off the pumpkin and scoop out the seeds and stringy insides, creating a hollow shell.
- Season the Shell: Brush the inside of the pumpkin with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
Make the Stuffing
- Sauté Vegetables: In a skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced vegetables and garlic, and sauté until softened (about 5-7 minutes).
- Combine Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, chickpeas, sautéed vegetables, cheese, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
Stuff the Pumpkin
- Fill the Pumpkin: Spoon the filling into the hollow pumpkin, packing it gently.
- Cover and Bake: Place the stuffed pumpkin on a baking dish and cover it loosely with aluminum foil. Bake for 45 minutes.
- Uncover and Continue Baking: After 45 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the pumpkin is tender.
- Prep Time: 30 min.
- Cook Time: 60 min.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4-6 servings
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 10g