Sweet and Spicy Red Kuri Squash Bowl (Printable)

Creamy roasted squash with warming spices and maple sweetness, balanced by a hint of chili for a vibrant seasonal bowl.

# What You Need:

→ Vegetables

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

→ Spice & Seasoning

05 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
06 - 1.5 teaspoons smoked paprika
07 - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
08 - 0.5 teaspoon ground cumin
09 - 0.5 teaspoon chili flakes
10 - 0.75 teaspoon sea salt
11 - 0.25 teaspoon black pepper

→ Sweet & Tangy

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

→ Garnishes

14 - 0.25 cup roasted pumpkin seeds
15 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
16 - 1 small lime, cut into wedges

# How-To:

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

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The blend of smoked paprika, cinnamon, and cumin provides a unique depth of flavor.
  • It is a nutritionally dense meal that is both naturally gluten-free and vegetarian.
  • The combination of caramelized squash and fresh lime offers a beautiful contrast of sweet and tangy notes.
02 -
  • Adjust the amount of chili flakes based on your personal heat preference.
  • Ensure the vegetables are spread in a single layer on the parchment-lined sheet to achieve maximum caramelization.
  • If you have a gluten allergy, double-check that your quinoa is certified gluten-free.
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