Gluten-Free Stuffed Butternut Squash

Ingredients:

• 2 medium-sized butternut squash
• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 2 cups vegetable broth or water
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup mushrooms, chopped
• 1 cup baby spinach, chopped
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried sage
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: Grated cheese (use a vegan alternative for a vegan dish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Place them on a baking sheet, cut side up, and bake for about 40-45 minutes or until they're fork-tender.
3. While the squash is baking, cook the quinoa. In a saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and vegetable broth or water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the quinoa is cooked. Set aside.
4. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent.
5. Add the minced garlic, diced bell pepper, and chopped mushrooms to the skillet. Cook for another 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
6. Stir in the cooked quinoa, chopped spinach, dried cranberries, chopped nuts, dried thyme, dried sage, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together and cook for a few more minutes until the spinach is wilted and the ingredients are well combined. Adjust seasoning to taste.
7. Once the butternut squash halves are done baking, remove them from the oven. Fill each squash half generously with the quinoa and vegetable mixture.
8. If desired, sprinkle grated cheese on top of each stuffed squash half.
9. Place the stuffed squash back in the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese (if using) is melted and bubbly.

This dish brings together the natural sweetness of butternut squash with a flavorful and satisfying quinoa and vegetable stuffing. Enjoy your gluten-free vegetarian holiday feast!