Sweet and Spicy Red Kuri Squash (Printer View)

Creamy roasted red kuri squash balanced with warming spices, sweet maple, and chili for a vibrant seasonal bowl.

# Components:

→ Vegetables

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

→ Spice & Seasoning

05 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
06 - 1 ½ teaspoons smoked paprika
07 - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
08 - ½ teaspoon ground cumin
09 - ½ teaspoon chili flakes
10 - ¾ teaspoon sea salt
11 - ¼ teaspoon black pepper

→ Sweet & Tangy

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

→ Garnishes

14 - ¼ cup roasted pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
15 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
16 - 1 small lime, cut into wedges

# Method steps:

01 - Preheat oven to 400°F. 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 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 - Steam or sauté chopped kale until just wilted, approximately 2-3 minutes.
06 - Divide cooked quinoa among four bowls if using. Top with roasted squash, onions, and wilted kale.
07 - Garnish each bowl with roasted pumpkin seeds, chopped cilantro, and a squeeze of fresh lime.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The maple chili glaze creates this incredible sticky sweet coating that makes vegetables taste like candy.
  • It comes together faster than you think and looks impressive enough for dinner guests.
02 -
  • Don't crowd the baking sheet or your vegetables will steam instead of roast.
  • The maple syrup can burn quickly, so watch closely during those final 10 minutes.
03 -
  • If your squash feels wobbly to cut, slice a small piece off the bottom first to stabilize it.
  • Let the roasted vegetables rest for 5 minutes before serving, the flavors meld beautifully.
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