Cous Cous Stuffed Butternut Squash, Delicious Vegan Roast

This post for the cous cous stuffed butternut squash was initially published on the 19th of December, 2020.

One thing you will always hear a vegan person say about a dinner with family or friends is ‘I was served a salad, just a dang salad’. And how upsetting can that be? I mean, if I were to be invited somewhere, promised a dinner and only received a salad, you bet I would be upset. Being vegan does not mean only eating salad, and if the situation were reversed, we’d be extremely upset.

So that’s why we came up with this delicious – and 100% vegan – cous cous stuffed butternut squash. It’s packed with some delicious and rustic cous cous, fresh spinach and mushrooms, dried cranberries, and spices. Even as a meat eater, my mouth is watering as I type this, and cannot wait to get to savor it again.

And to be completely fair, who does not enjoy butternut squash? I mean, as a matter of fact, our mother hates anything pumpkin or squash, but she even got to try it and thoroughly enjoyed it nonetheless. If anything, it teaches her a valuable lesson: pumpkin and squash are as delicious as it gets!

This recipe is a celebration of wholesome flavors and hearty textures, bringing together the warm, natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash with a filling that’s savory, vibrant, and satisfying. It’s a dish that feels luxurious yet is rooted in simple, fresh ingredients, a testament to how comfort food can be both delicious and nutritious.

Picture this: tender, golden squash cradling a savory cous cous stuffing, bursting with perfectly seasoned vegetables, and just a hint of warmth from spices that awaken the palate. It’s a meal that strikes the ideal balance between rich, earthy undertones and bright, fresh highlights. Perfect for cozy family dinners or impressing guests at special gatherings, this cous cous stuffed butternut squash invites everyone to savor the moment, bite after bite.

Whether you’re seeking a show-stopping centerpiece for your next dinner or simply looking for a dish that brings joy to a weeknight meal, this recipe brings flavor, comfort, and a touch of culinary elegance to your table.

We shall get this cous cous stuffed butternut squash going

This cous cous stuffed butternut squash will be the showstopper at your next meal with friends and family. It has nothing to lose on the meaty roasts you might have served before and just makes as much scene as the best roast ever. Don’t take my word for it, though. Time to try it out!

What is butternut squash and is it good for me?

Butternut squash is a popular type of winter squash known for its distinct shape: resembling a bell with a round base and a long neck. Its smooth, pale beige skin conceals bright orange, dense flesh that softens and turns creamy when cooked. It belongs to the Cucurbitaceae family, along with pumpkins, zucchini, and other squash varieties. Native to the Americas, butternut squash has long been a staple ingredient in a variety of global cuisines. Its flavor profile is sweet and slightly nutty, akin to that of pumpkin, making it a versatile ingredient that shines in both savory and sweet dishes.

This squash can be prepared in numerous ways: roasted, just like this cous cous stuffed butternut squash, to bring out its natural caramelized sweetness, blended into soups for a velvety texture, mashed for a side dish, or stuffed to create a show-stopping main course. Its rich flavor pairs exceptionally well with spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cayenne, as well as herbs like sage and thyme.

Butternut squash is not just a culinary delight but also a nutritional powerhouse, and this cous cous stuffed butternut squash is no joke either. Here’s a closer look at its health benefits and why you might want to incorporate it into your diet more regularly:

• Rich in Essential Vitamins and Minerals: Butternut squash is loaded with essential vitamins, especially vitamin A. This nutrient comes from its high levels of beta-carotene, the pigment responsible for its deep orange color. Vitamin A is crucial for maintaining good vision, supporting immune function, and promoting healthy skin and mucous membranes. Additionally, butternut squash provides a solid dose of vitamin C, which boosts immune health, promotes wound healing, and plays a significant role in the production of collagen for skin and joint health.
• Antioxidant Properties: The high levels of antioxidants found in butternut squash, including beta-carotene and vitamin C, help combat oxidative stress in the body. Antioxidants can reduce inflammation and help protect against chronic diseases such as heart disease and certain cancers by neutralizing free radicals.
• High Fiber Content: Butternut squash is a great source of dietary fiber, which supports digestive health and helps maintain a healthy gut. Fiber aids in promoting regular bowel movements and can help prevent issues such as constipation. Moreover, fiber contributes to satiety, helping you feel full for longer periods and potentially aiding in weight management.
• Low in Calories Yet Satisfying: With relatively few calories per serving (about 82 calories per cup of cooked squash), it provides a satisfying option for those looking to manage their weight. Its natural sweetness can curb cravings for higher-calorie sweets and processed foods, making it a smart ingredient to include in a balanced diet.
• Potassium Power: Butternut squash is rich in potassium, a mineral that helps regulate fluid balance, muscle contractions, and nerve signals. Adequate potassium intake can help manage blood pressure levels and counteract the negative effects of a sodium-rich diet, supporting overall heart health.
• Additional Nutrients: Beyond vitamin A, C, and fiber, butternut squash also contains other valuable nutrients such as magnesium, manganese, and vitamins E and B6. Vitamin E is an antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage, while vitamin B6 plays a role in brain development and function.

Butternut squash is a versatile and nutrient-dense food that offers both delicious flavors and substantial health benefits. Its mix of vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants makes it an ideal addition to a well-rounded diet. Whether incorporated into hearty dishes like this cous cous stuffed butternut squash, added to soups and stews, or enjoyed on its own, butternut squash not only pleases the palate but also supports overall wellness.

What is cous cous?

Cous cous is a type of food made from tiny granules of semolina wheat or sometimes a combination of semolina and other flours. It is a staple in North African and Middle Eastern cuisines and is often mistaken for a grain, but it is technically a type of pasta. The traditional method of making cous cous involves moistening semolina flour and rolling it into small pellets, which are then dried. In its classic preparation, couscous is steamed to achieve a fluffy, light texture.

Cous cous comes in different varieties, including:

• Moroccan Cous cous: The smallest and most commonly found type, which cooks quickly (often in just a few minutes by steaming or soaking in hot water) and is the one we have used in this cous cous stuffed butternut squash;
• Israeli Cous cous (Pearl Cous cous): Slightly larger, rounder, and has a chewy texture similar to small pasta pearls. It takes a bit longer to cook than Moroccan cous cous and is often toasted before cooking to bring out a nutty flavor;
• Lebanese Cous cous (Moghrabieh): The largest of the three types, resembling small balls and requiring more cooking time. It has a hearty, substantial texture.

Cous cous is not only versatile and easy to prepare but also provides nutritional value that can be part of a balanced diet:

• Carbohydrates and Energy: Cous cous is rich in carbohydrates, making it a good source of energy. It’s an ideal base for meals that need a hearty, filling component;
• Protein Content: Though not a complete protein on its own, couscous contains a decent amount of protein compared to other pasta types. Pairing it with beans, legumes, or meat can help create a complete protein meal;
• Low in Fat: One of the benefits of couscous is that it is low in fat, making it a healthy alternative to heavier kinds of pasta or grains when preparing lighter dishes;
• Vitamins and Minerals: Cous cous contains small amounts of essential nutrients such as selenium, which acts as an antioxidant in the body, helping to protect cells from oxidative damage. It also offers traces of vitamins B1 (thiamine) and B3 (niacin), which play roles in energy metabolism;
• Fiber (Whole-Wheat Cous cous): For those seeking more fiber, whole-wheat cous cous is a better option. It can aid digestion, promote feelings of fullness, and support healthy blood sugar levels.

Culinary Uses and Versatility: Cous cous is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a range of flavors, making it a great addition to many dishes just like in this cous cous stuffed butternut squash. It can be served as a side dish, a base for hearty stews, or mixed with vegetables, herbs, and dressings for salads. In traditional North African cuisine, cous cous is often served with tagines, a rich, slow-cooked stew made with vegetables, meats, and aromatic spices.

It can be flavored with spices such as cumin, coriander, or saffron and enhanced with ingredients like dried fruit, nuts, and fresh herbs for added depth and texture. Whether served warm or cold, cous cous easily absorbs the flavors of the ingredients it’s mixed with, making it a flexible and adaptable dish for a wide range of culinary creations.

What ingredients do you need to make this cous cous stuffed butternut squash?

Before diving into the cous cous stuffed butternut squash recipe, it’s essential to know what makes this cous cous stuffed butternut squash truly special. Each ingredient brings its own unique qualities to the table, contributing to the rich tapestry of flavors and textures in this dish. From the natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash to the umami-packed mushrooms and the bright bursts of dried cranberries, every component plays a part in creating a balanced, satisfying meal. Get to know these key ingredients as you prepare to craft this cous cous stuffed butternut squash dish that’s as vibrant as it is delicious:

• Butternut Squash: The star of this dish, whole butternut squash is naturally sweet, with a firm texture that becomes tender and velvety when roasted. Its hollowed-out center makes the perfect vessel for stuffing, adding both substance and a subtly sweet flavor that contrasts beautifully with the savory filling;
• Mushrooms: These add an earthy, umami-rich depth that complements the sweetness of the squash. Their meaty texture makes the cous cous stuffed butternut squash dish heartier and satisfying, perfect for a main course that doesn’t rely on meat;
• Shallot: Offering a delicate sweetness and a hint of sharpness, shallots elevate the overall flavor profile of the cous cous stuffed butternut squash stuffing. They provide a more refined, less pungent onion flavor that blends seamlessly with the other ingredients;
• Spinach: Fresh spinach adds color, nutrients, and a slightly bitter note that balances the cous cous stuffed butternut squash dish. When cooked, it wilts down beautifully and incorporates into the cous cous mixture, adding both texture and an appealing pop of green;
• Cous cous: The base of the stuffing, cous cous is fluffy and light, soaking up the flavors from the surrounding vegetables and seasonings. It adds volume and a subtle, nutty flavor that ties the dish together;
• Garlic: Essential for adding aromatic depth, garlic infuses the dish with a warm, savory note that rounds out the flavors. Its distinctive taste works harmoniously with both the roasted squash and the filling;
• Soy Sauce: This ingredient brings a savory, umami punch to the filling, enriching the cous cous and vegetables with a subtle saltiness and depth. It balances the sweetness of the squash and adds complexity;
• Chili Flakes: For a touch of heat, chili flakes lend a hint of spice that perks up the cous cous stuffed butternut squash dish without overpowering it. They add warmth and contrast that accentuate the other flavors, perfect for those who enjoy a mild kick;
• Carrot: Chopped carrot adds a touch of natural sweetness and a subtle crunch to the stuffing, enhancing the overall texture and flavor profile. It pairs well with both the squash and the earthiness of the mushrooms;
• Parsley: Fresh parsley brightens up the cous cous stuffed butternut squash dish with its clean, slightly peppery flavor. It adds a fresh finish that contrasts the richer, deeper notes from the roasted vegetables and spices;
• Dried Cranberries: These contribute a sweet, tangy element that punctuates the savory and spicy notes of the cous cous stuffed butternut squash stuffing. Their chewy texture adds interest and pairs perfectly with the tender squash and fluffy cous cous;
• Nutmeg: Just a hint of nutmeg lends a warm, aromatic undertone that pairs beautifully with the natural sweetness of the squash. It’s subtle but brings a cozy, almost nostalgic flavor that enhances the dish’s overall warmth;
• Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a touch of heat and a layer of complexity to the cous cous stuffed butternut squash, balancing the sweetness of the squash and other sweet elements like the dried cranberries;
• Salt: Essential for bringing out all the flavors, a sprinkle of salt ensures that the dish isn’t bland, highlighting the natural flavors of the ingredients and seasoning the cous cous perfectly;
• Olive Oil: Used for roasting and sautéing, olive oil helps the vegetables and squash develop a rich, caramelized flavor. It adds smoothness and depth, making the cous cous stuffed butternut squash dish indulgent without overpowering any individual element.

How do I make this cous cous stuffed butternut squash?

Making this cous cous stuffed butternut squash it’s as easy as it gets, so you can’t complain about spending time in the kitchen while everyone else has fun in the other room. Let’s see how to make it together.

You’ll start by preheating the oven to 180°C. Carefully slice the butternut squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Brush the flesh with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Place the squash halves cut-side up on a baking tray and roast in the preheated oven for 45-60 minutes, or until the flesh is tender when pierced with a fork. You will need to adjust the time as needed depending on the size of the squash.

While the squash is roasting, bring a pot of water or vegetable broth to a boil. Add the couscous to the boiling liquid, cover, and remove from the heat. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes, then fluff with a fork and set aside.

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Sauté the chopped shallot and garlic until fragrant and translucent, about 2-3 minutes, then add the chopped carrots and cook for an additional 5 minutes until they begin to soften. Stir in the chopped mushrooms and continue to sauté for 3-4 minutes until they release their moisture and start to brown, then add the spinach and sauté for 1-2 minutes until wilted.

Stir in the soy sauce and a pinch of chili flakes, mixing well to coat the vegetables evenly. Time to add the cooked couscous to the skillet and mix to combine with the sautéed vegetables. Stir in the dried cranberries, chopped parsley, a sprinkle of nutmeg, and additional salt and pepper to taste. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.

Once the butternut squash is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly. Use a spoon to create a shallow cavity in the center of each half, scooping out a small amount of flesh if needed to make more room for the stuffing. Spoon the couscous mixture generously into the squash halves, pressing lightly to ensure it stays in place.

Return the cous cous stuffed butternut squash to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes at 180°C, allowing the flavors to meld and the tops to become lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish the cous cous stuffed butternut squash with a final sprinkle of fresh parsley if desired.

Cous Cous Stuffed Butternut Squash

Cristina

Meet this cous cous stuffed butternut squash: tender, golden squash cradling a savory cous cous stuffing, bursting with perfectly seasoned vegetables, and just a hint of warmth from spices that awaken the palate.

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Prep Time 25 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 40 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine American-inspired

Servings 4 people

Ingredients

  

• 1 large butternut squash
• 150 g couscous
• 150 g button mushrooms
• 1 large shallot
• 200 g spinach
• 3 garlic cloves
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• ½ tsp chili flakes
• 1 carrot
• 2 tsp fresh parsley
• 20 g dried cranberries
• 1 pinch of nutmeg
• salt
• pepper
• olive oil

Instructions

 

• Preheat the oven to 180°C.
• Carefully slice the butternut squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
  1 large butternut squash
• Brush the flesh with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
  salt, olive oil, pepper
• Place the squash halves cut-side up on a baking tray and roast in the preheated oven for 45-60 minutes, or until the flesh is tender when pierced with a fork. Adjust the time as needed depending on the size of the squash.
• While the squash is roasting, bring a pot of water or vegetable broth to a boil.
• Add the couscous to the boiling liquid, cover, and remove from the heat. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes, then fluff with a fork and set aside.
  150 g couscous
• Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil.
  olive oil
• Sauté the chopped shallot and garlic until fragrant and translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
  1 large shallot, 3 garlic cloves
• Add the chopped carrots and cook for an additional 5 minutes until they begin to soften.
  1 carrot
• Stir in the chopped mushrooms and continue to sauté for 3-4 minutes until they release their moisture and start to brown.
  150 g button mushrooms
• Add the spinach and sauté for 1-2 minutes until wilted.
  200 g spinach
• Stir in the soy sauce and a pinch of chili flakes, mixing well to coat the vegetables evenly.
  1 tbsp soy sauce, 1/2 tsp chili flakes
• Add the cooked couscous to the skillet and mix to combine with the sautéed vegetables.
• Stir in the dried cranberries, chopped parsley, a sprinkle of nutmeg, and additional salt and pepper to taste. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
  2 tsp fresh parsley, 20 g dried cranberries, 1 pinch of nutmeg
• Once the butternut squash is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly.
• Use a spoon to create a shallow cavity in the center of each half, scooping out a small amount of flesh if needed to make more room for the stuffing.
• Spoon the couscous mixture generously into the squash halves, pressing lightly to ensure it stays in place.
• Return the stuffed squash to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes at 180°C, allowing the flavors to meld and the tops to become lightly golden.
• Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
• Garnish with a final sprinkle of fresh parsley if desired.

Keyword cous cous stuffed butternut squash

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This cous cous stuffed butternut squash brings together the natural sweetness of roasted squash with a savory, aromatic filling, creating a dish that’s both hearty and nutritious. It’s perfect for cozy dinners or as a standout addition to your holiday table.

If you enjoyed this recipe for the cous cous stuffed butternut squash, you might also like these recipes:

• Easy Mushroom Vegan Wellington:A show-stopping centerpiece perfect for holidays and special occasions, featuring a savory mushroom filling wrapped in flaky puff pastry;
• Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta with Crispy Bacon: A comforting pasta dish where creamy butternut squash sauce meets crispy bacon for a satisfying meal;
• Most Delicious Pumpkin Gnocchi with Butter & Crispy Sage: Handmade pumpkin gnocchi served with a simple yet elegant butter and sage sauce.

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