Fall Recipes Healthy: 7 Simple Steps to Cozy Enjoyment

Name: Fall Recipes Healthy: 7 Simple Steps to Cozy Enjoyment
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced; 1 cup quinoa, rinsed; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg; 1/2 cup cranberries, dried; 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

June 7, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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As the leaves turn and the air gets crisp, I can’t help but get excited about all the cozy, healthy fall recipes I can whip up in my kitchen! This time of year is all about embracing the vibrant flavors of the season, and there’s nothing quite like the warm, earthy taste of roasted butternut squash paired with the nutty goodness of quinoa. Not only is this dish deliciously satisfying, but it’s also packed with nutrients that will keep you feeling energized and healthy. Trust me, once you try this combo, you’ll want to make it a staple in your fall recipe rotation. So, let’s dive into this delightful and nourishing dish that’s perfect for those crisp autumn days!

fall recipes healthy - detail 1

Ingredients List

For this vibrant and healthy fall recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients. Make sure to gather everything before you start for a smooth cooking experience!

1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced into 1-inch cubes
1 cup quinoa, rinsed thoroughly under cold water to remove bitterness
2 cups vegetable broth, preferably low-sodium for better control of flavor
1 tablespoon olive oil, extra virgin for enhanced flavor
1 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste
1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground for the best aroma
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, to add a warm, sweet spice
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg, freshly grated if possible for a more robust flavor
1/2 cup cranberries, dried for a tart contrast
1/4 cup walnuts, chopped coarsely for added crunch
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped for garnish and freshness

These ingredients come together to create a dish that’s not just healthy but also a feast for the senses, with bright colors and a mix of textures! Enjoy the prep—it’s all part of the fun!

How to Prepare Instructions

Ready to bring this healthy fall recipe to life? Let’s get cooking! Just follow these step-by-step instructions, and you’ll have a delicious dish ready in no time.

Preheat your oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the butternut squash roasts perfectly, getting that lovely caramelization we crave.
Toss the squash: In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced butternut squash with the olive oil, salt, black pepper, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg. Use your hands to toss everything together until the squash is well-coated. This is where the magic begins!
Roast the squash: Spread the seasoned squash evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the squash is tender and golden brown. Give it a stir halfway through to ensure even cooking. You’ll love that sweet, nutty aroma wafting through your kitchen!
Cook the quinoa: While the squash is roasting, bring the vegetable broth to a boil in a medium saucepan. Once boiling, add the rinsed quinoa, reduce the heat to low, and cover. Simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the liquid has been fully absorbed and the quinoa is fluffy. Make sure to check it at the 12-minute mark to prevent overcooking.
Combine the ingredients: Once the quinoa is cooked, remove it from the heat and fluff it gently with a fork. Stir in the dried cranberries and chopped walnuts, allowing the warmth of the quinoa to soften the cranberries slightly.
Mix in the squash: When the butternut squash is perfectly roasted, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a couple of minutes. Then, add the roasted squash to the quinoa mixture and toss gently to combine.
Garnish: Finally, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness before serving. This dish is not only delicious but also visually stunning!

And there you have it! A beautiful, wholesome dish that brings the flavors of fall right to your table. Enjoy every bite of this nutritious treat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Nutritious and Wholesome: This dish is packed with vitamins, fiber, and healthy fats, making it a fantastic choice for anyone looking to eat healthily this fall.
Seasonal Ingredients: Roasted butternut squash is a quintessential fall ingredient, bringing warmth and comfort to your plate while supporting local farmers.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet roasted squash, nutty quinoa, tart cranberries, and crunchy walnuts creates a delightful medley of flavors and textures.
Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious main course ready in about 45 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights!
Versatile Dish: This recipe can be enjoyed warm or cold, making it perfect for meal prep or as a hearty salad for lunch the next day.
Vegan-Friendly: Suitable for a variety of diets, this dish is completely vegan, ensuring everyone can enjoy its deliciousness!

Tips for Success

To ensure your roasted butternut squash and quinoa dish turns out absolutely perfect, here are some tried-and-true tips that I always keep in mind:

Perfectly Roasted Squash: For even cooking and caramelization, choose squash pieces that are uniform in size. If you’re short on time, you can microwave the diced squash for a couple of minutes before roasting to kickstart the cooking process!
Don’t Skip the Toss: When tossing the squash with olive oil and spices, make sure every piece is well-coated. This helps the flavors penetrate and ensures a deliciously seasoned bite every time.
Watch the Roast Time: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on the squash during the last few minutes of roasting. You want it tender and slightly golden, but not mushy—trust me, that slight crisp adds so much texture!
Fluff Your Quinoa: After cooking, let the quinoa sit covered for a few minutes before fluffing with a fork. This helps to separate the grains and gives you that perfect, light texture.
Adjust the Seasoning: Feel free to taste and adjust the seasoning before serving. A little extra salt or a splash of lemon juice can brighten the dish and enhance the flavors beautifully!
Make it Ahead: This dish holds up beautifully, so don’t hesitate to prep it a day in advance. Just store the components separately and combine them right before serving to maintain that lovely texture.

With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll master this healthy fall recipe and impress everyone at your table. Happy cooking!

Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous or simply want to mix things up, there are plenty of delicious variations you can try with this roasted butternut squash and quinoa dish! Here are some ideas to inspire your creativity:

Swap the Quinoa: For a different texture and flavor, consider substituting quinoa with farro or bulgur. Both grains provide a hearty base and can bring a unique twist to the dish!
Add Feta Cheese: If you’re not keeping it strictly vegan, crumbling some feta cheese on top before serving adds a lovely salty contrast that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the squash.
Include Leafy Greens: Stir in some fresh spinach or kale at the end of cooking for an extra boost of nutrients and vibrant color. The residual heat will wilt the greens perfectly!
Mix in Other Nuts: Feel free to swap out walnuts for pecans, almonds, or even hazelnuts for a different nutty flavor and crunch. Toasting the nuts beforehand enhances their flavor, so don’t skip that step!
Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for a little kick! These spices complement the sweetness of the squash and add depth to the overall flavor profile.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or sage for a more aromatic experience. Simply toss them in with the squash before roasting for an extra layer of flavor.

These variations not only keep the dish exciting but also allow you to customize it to your taste preferences or dietary needs. So go ahead, mix and match, and make this recipe your own!

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving this vibrant roasted butternut squash and quinoa dish, I love to think about balance and presentation to really elevate the meal. Here are some delightful ideas to complement and enhance your dish:

Fresh Green Salad: A light arugula or spinach salad dressed with a simple lemon vinaigrette pairs beautifully. The peppery greens and zesty dressing provide a refreshing contrast to the sweet, roasted flavors of the squash.
Grilled Veggies: Serve alongside some grilled seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus. The smoky char from the grill adds depth and a lovely color to your plate.
Herbed Yogurt Sauce: A dollop of herbed yogurt sauce or a tangy tahini dressing on the side not only adds creaminess but also a bright flavor that complements the dish perfectly!
Quinoa Salad: For a heartier meal, consider serving this dish alongside a chilled quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a splash of balsamic vinegar. It keeps the theme going while adding more textures and flavors to the table.
Rustic Bread: A warm slice of crusty whole-grain bread or a rustic sourdough makes for a great addition. It’s perfect for scooping up the quinoa and squash, making each bite even more satisfying.
Presentation: Don’t forget to plate it beautifully! Use a wide, shallow bowl to showcase the colorful squash and quinoa. Garnish with extra parsley and maybe a sprinkle of pomegranate seeds for a pop of color and a burst of flavor!

These sides not only enhance the overall dining experience but also make your meal visually appealing. Enjoy bringing these flavors together for a cozy fall feast that everyone will love!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Got leftovers? No problem! This roasted butternut squash and quinoa dish stores wonderfully, making it perfect for meal prep. Here’s how to keep it fresh and tasty:

Storage: Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This helps to prevent condensation, which can make the quinoa soggy. When stored properly, it will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: If you want to save it for later, you can freeze portions of the dish. Just scoop it into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, leaving some space for expansion. It will stay good in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge.
Reheating: To reheat, simply warm it up on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen it up and prevent sticking. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-7 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions—just cover it with a damp paper towel and heat for 1-2 minutes, checking and stirring halfway through for even heating.
Serving Tips: After reheating, consider freshening it up with a sprinkle of parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice to revive those vibrant flavors. You might also want to add a little extra salt or pepper, depending on your taste!

With these simple storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy this nutritious fall dish all week long, making your meal planning a breeze!

Nutritional Information

When it comes to healthy fall recipes, this roasted butternut squash and quinoa dish not only delights the palate but also offers a fantastic nutritional profile. Here’s a typical breakdown of the nutritional values per serving (about 1 cup):

Calories: 320
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fiber: 8g
Sugar: 6g
Protein: 8g
Sodium: 300mg
Cholesterol: 0mg

These values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredient brands and preparation methods. With a healthy balance of carbohydrates, protein, and fats, this dish is perfect for fueling your autumn adventures while keeping your health in check. Enjoy every nourishing bite!

FAQ Section

Can I use a different type of squash?
Absolutely! While butternut squash is my favorite for its sweetness and creamy texture, you can try acorn squash or pumpkin for a fun twist. Just keep in mind that different squashes may have varying cook times.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this roasted butternut squash and quinoa dish is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities. Just double-check your broth to ensure it’s gluten-free as well!

What if I don’t have quinoa?
No worries! You can substitute quinoa with other grains like farro, brown rice, or even couscous. Just adjust the cooking time according to the grain you choose to make sure it’s perfectly cooked.

Can I make this dish in advance?
Definitely! This recipe is perfect for meal prep. You can prepare the squash and quinoa separately and store them in the refrigerator for up to four days. Just combine them when you’re ready to serve.

How do I store leftovers?
To store leftovers, allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for about four days, or you can freeze it for up to three months!

Can I add more vegetables?
For sure! Feel free to add other roasted veggies like Brussels sprouts, carrots, or sweet potatoes to the mix. Just keep in mind that different vegetables may require different roasting times, so plan accordingly!

How can I make this dish more filling?
If you’re looking for an extra protein boost, consider adding chickpeas or black beans. They’ll blend well with the flavors and make this dish even heartier!

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! This dish is fantastic for meal prep. It holds up well in the fridge and can be enjoyed warm or cold, making it a versatile option for lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.