Mediterranean-Style Stuffed Butternut Squash

This sweet-savory dish is packed with warm Mediterranean spices, lean protein, and wholesome ingredients like walnuts, cranberries, and feta. Perfect for a cozy dinner or holiday meal!

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 45 minutes

Total Time: 55 minutes

 Ingredients

For the Squash:

1 medium butternut squash, halved and seeds removed

1 tbsp olive oil

½ tsp salt

¼ tsp black pepper

For the Filling:

1 tbsp olive oil

½ onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

½ lb ground turkey (or 1½ cups cooked chickpeas for vegetarian)

1 tsp ground cinnamon

1 tsp ground cumin

1 tsp dried oregano

½ tsp smoked paprika

½ tsp salt

¼ tsp black pepper

2 cups fresh spinach, chopped

¼ cup chopped walnuts (or almonds)

¼ cup dried cranberries

¼ cup crumbled feta cheese (or goat cheese)

1 tbsp honey (optional, for balance)

For Garnish:

Chopped fresh parsley

Drizzle of balsamic glaze or extra honey

Instructions

oast the Butternut Squash

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

Brush the cut sides of the butternut squash with olive oil, then sprinkle with salt and black pepper.

Place squash cut-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Roast for 30–35 minutes until the flesh is fork-tender.

Prepare the Mediterranean Filling

While the squash is roasting, heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.

Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft (about 3 minutes).

Stir in garlic, then add the ground turkey (or chickpeas) and cook until browned (5–7 minutes).

Mix in the cinnamon, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.

Add the chopped spinach and cook for 1–2 minutes until wilted.

Stir in walnuts and cranberries. Remove from heat.

 Stuff the Squash & Bake Again

Once the squash is done roasting, flip it cut-side up and let it cool for 5 minutes.

Use a fork to slightly mash some of the squash flesh to create space for the filling.

Spoon the Mediterranean filling into each squash half.

Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top.

Return to the oven and bake for another 8–10 minutes, until the cheese is slightly golden.

Serve & Enjoy!

Drizzle with honey or balsamic glaze for extra Mediterranean flair.

Garnish with chopped parsley.

Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips & Tricks:

For extra crunch – Toast the walnuts before adding them.

For extra creaminess – Add a dollop of Greek yogurt before serving.

Make it vegan – Use chickpeas instead of turkey and swap feta for dairy-free cheese.

Meal Prep Friendly – Can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Nutrition (Per Serving – Approximate)

(Serves 2)

Calories: 420

Protein: 25g

Carbs: 38g

Fat: 18g

Fiber: 7g