Sweet and Spicy Red Kuri Squash Bowl (Printable Version)

Creamy roasted squash with warming spices, maple sweetness, and chili heat creates this vibrant seasonal bowl perfect for cozy days.

# What You Need:

→ 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 tbsp olive oil
06 - 1 ½ tsp smoked paprika
07 - 1 tsp ground cinnamon
08 - ½ tsp ground cumin
09 - ½ tsp chili flakes (adjust to heat preference)
10 - ¾ tsp sea salt
11 - ¼ tsp black pepper

→ Sweet & Tangy

12 - 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
13 - 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

→ Garnishes

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

# How To Make It:

01 - Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - In a large bowl, toss the red kuri squash and red onion with olive oil, smoked paprika, cinnamon, cumin, chili flakes, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
03 - Spread the vegetables in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast for 25 minutes.
04 - Drizzle the maple syrup and apple cider vinegar over the partially roasted vegetables, toss gently, and return to the oven for another 10 minutes, until caramelized and tender.
05 - While the squash roasts, steam or sauté the chopped kale until just wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
06 - To serve, divide cooked quinoa (if using) among four bowls. 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 Tips:

01 -
  • The maple syrup creates these gorgeous caramelized edges that make every bite feel like a treat
  • Its one of those rare dishes that looks impressive on the table but comes together with mostly hands-off roasting time
  • The warming spices and chili kick make it perfect for those days when you need something comforting yet bright
02 -
  • Red kuri squash can be tricky to cut—the skin is tough, so use a sharp knife and steady pressure, or ask your grocery store to cut it for you
  • Don't crowd the baking sheet or the vegetables will steam instead of roast, losing that caramelized edge we're after
  • The maple syrup can burn if added too early, so wait until the vegetables have already softened in the oven
03 -
  • Let the roasted vegetables sit for 5 minutes before serving—the flavors deepen and the textures become even more satisfying
  • If your red kuri squash seems especially large, increase the roasting time by 5-10 minutes rather than cutting the pieces smaller
  • Any winter squash will work here, but red kuri's natural creaminess is hard to beat for this particular recipe
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