Sweet and Spicy Red Kuri Squash Bowl (Printable)

Creamy roasted squash with warming spices, maple sweetness, and chili heat

# What You'll Need:

→ Vegetables

01 - 1 medium red kuri squash (approximately 2 lbs), 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 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

# Directions:

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 Advice:

01 -
  • The way maple and chili create this incredible sweet heat dance that keeps you coming back for another bite
  • How roasting transforms humble squash into caramelized bites that feel fancy enough for company but simple enough for Tuesday
  • That crispy tender texture contrast happening in every single spoonful
02 -
  • Red kuri squash has edible skin so no need to peel, just give it a good scrub and cut into even cubes
  • The maple syrup can burn if added too early, so wait until the vegetables have softened first
  • This dish actually tastes better at room temperature, making it perfect for meal prep or potlucks
03 -
  • Cut your squash into uniform cubes so everything finishes roasting at the same time
  • Do not skip the vinegar, it is what cuts through the richness and keeps you from feeling weighed down
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