Sweet and Spicy Red Kuri Squash Bowl (Printable version)

Creamy roasted red kuri squash balanced with warming spices, maple sweetness, and chili heat. A vibrant seasonal bowl perfect for chilly days.

# What You’ll 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

# 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 spice blend creates this smoky, sweet heat that makes people actually ask for seconds
  • Everything roasts on one sheet pan so cleanup is almost suspiciously easy
02 -
  • The maple syrup can burn if you add it too early, so wait until after that first roast
  • Red kuri skin is edible, but give it a scrub and remove any rough patches
03 -
  • Let the squash rest 5 minutes after roasting so the glaze sets slightly
  • A microplane makes quick work of zesting extra lime into the glaze for extra brightness
Go back