Once upon a time, Thanksgiving was all Mom’s Green Jell-o, Classic Green Bean casserole, and Midwest mashed potatoes. These days it's been joined by some more modern friends — vegetarian and vegan sides and with an emphasis on fresh and healthy. Having something filling other than mashers and turkey is key — which is why we came up with this Farro-Stuffed Roasted Acorn Squash recipe.
1cupsemi-pearled farrorinsed and drained (can substitute wheatberries or barley)
3tablespoonsextra-virgin olive oil
1/2mediumyellow onionfinely chopped
4mediumcelery stalksfinely chopped
3mediumgarlic clovesfinely chopped
1tablespoonminced fresh thyme leaves
Kosher salt and Freshly ground black pepper
2mediumGolden Delicious, Gala, or Pink Lady appleshalved, cored, and medium dice
3/4cuplow-sodium vegetable broth, chicken broth, or water
1/3cupcurrants
1/4cuproughly chopped fresh flat-leaf Italian parsley
1/4cupwalnutstoasted and finely chopped
For The Acorn Squash:
4acorn squashcut in half and seeds removed
Instructions
Make The Farro Apple Walnut Stuffing: Bring a large pot of heavily salted water to a boil over high heat. When it boils, stir in farro and cook until just tender, about 15 to 20 minutes. Drain well and place in a large bowl. (Can be done up to 1 day ahead.)
Heat oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. When it shimmers, add the onion, celery, garlic, and thyme then season with the kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, and stir to coat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until just softened, about 5 minutes.Remove from heat and stir in the apples, grains, broth, currants or raisins, parsley, walnuts, and some freshly ground black pepper. Serve as is or stuff into the acorn squash for a vegetarian main.
Stuff And Bake The Acorn Squash: Heat the oven to 375°F and arrange a rack in the middle.Divide the apple walnut stuffing among acorn squash or place in 2-quart baking dish, drizzle with a bit of olive oil, and bake until the filling is heated through, 15 minutes. Serve hot or warm.