Sweet and Spicy Red Kuri Squash Bowl (Printer-friendly)

Creamy roasted squash with sweet maple glaze, warming spices, and fresh kale.

# What You'll Need:

→ Vegetables

01 - 1 medium red kuri squash (about 2 lbs), seeded and cut into 1-inch cubes
02 - 1 medium red onion, sliced
03 - 2 cups kale, chopped (stems removed)
04 - 1 cup cooked quinoa (optional, for serving)

→ Spice & Seasoning

05 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
06 - 1 ½ teaspoons smoked paprika
07 - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
08 - ½ teaspoon ground cumin
09 - ½ teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to heat preference)
10 - ¾ teaspoon sea salt
11 - ¼ teaspoon black pepper

→ Sweet & Tangy

12 - 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
13 - 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

→ Garnishes

14 - ¼ cup roasted pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
15 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
16 - 1 small lime, cut into wedges

# Directions:

01 - Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - In a large bowl, toss the red kuri squash and red onion with olive oil, smoked paprika, cinnamon, cumin, chili flakes, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
03 - Spread the vegetables in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast for 25 minutes.
04 - Drizzle the maple syrup and apple cider vinegar over the partially roasted vegetables, toss gently, and return to the oven for another 10 minutes, until caramelized and tender.
05 - While the squash roasts, steam or sauté the chopped kale until just wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
06 - Divide cooked quinoa (if using) among four bowls. Top with roasted squash, onions, and wilted kale.
07 - Garnish each bowl with roasted pumpkin seeds, chopped cilantro, and a squeeze of fresh lime.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The maple syrup creates these incredible caramelized edges that make every bite feel like a treat
  • It comes together effortlessly but looks impressive enough for company
02 -
  • Red kuri squash skin is edible and thin, so save yourself the effort of peeling
  • The maple syrup can burn quickly, so add it midway through roasting rather than at the start
03 -
  • Cut your squash into uniform cubes so everything roasts evenly
  • Let the vegetables rest on the baking sheet for a few minutes after roasting to develop even more flavor
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