Ideal Protein Approved Christmas Stuffed Acorn Squash
Indulge in the flavors of the Holidays while staying on track with your Ideal Protein diet. This Christmas-inspired recipe features delicious, nutrient-dense ingredients that will satisfy your taste buds without derailing your weight loss goals.
How to Make the Ideal Christmas Stuffed Acorn Squash
Ingredients:
For the Stuffed Acorn Squash:
- 2 medium-sized acorn squashes
- 8 oz lean ground turkey
- 1 cup cauliflower rice
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/4 cup diced bell pepper (red or green)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp poultry seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Cranberry Chutney:
- 1/2 cup fresh cranberries
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 tsp orange zest
- 1/2 tsp powdered stevia or another Ideal Protein-approved sweetener
- 1/4 tsp cinnamon
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice the tops of the acorn squashes, and scoop out the seeds and membranes from the center. Brush the insides with 1 tbsp of olive oil and sprinkle with a pinch of salt and pepper. Place the squash on a baking sheet, cut side down, and roast for 30-35 minutes or until the flesh is tender.
- While the squashes are roasting, prepare the stuffing. In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1 tbsp of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground turkey, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned.
- Add the diced onion, celery, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet with the turkey. Sauté for 3-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
- Stir in the cauliflower rice and poultry seasoning, and continue cooking for another 3-5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- In a small saucepan, combine the cranberries, water, orange zest, powdered stevia, and cinnamon. Simmer over low heat until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens, about 10 minutes.
- Once the squashes are tender, remove them from the oven and carefully turn them over. Stuff each squash with the turkey and vegetable mixture, pressing it down lightly.
- Return the stuffed squashes to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown.
- Serve the stuffed acorn squashes with a drizzle of cranberry chutney on top.
This Ideal Protein-approved Christmas Stuffed Acorn Squash is a savory and satisfying dish that’s perfect for celebrating the holidays while staying on track with your health goals. Enjoy your guilt-free Christmas feast!
