Sweet and Spicy Red Kuri Squash Bowl (Printable)

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

# What You'll Need:

→ Vegetables

01 - 1 medium red kuri squash (about 2 pounds), 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

→ Spices and Seasonings

05 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
06 - 1½ teaspoons smoked paprika
07 - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
08 - ½ teaspoon ground cumin
09 - ½ teaspoon chili flakes, adjust to heat preference
10 - ¾ teaspoon sea salt
11 - ¼ teaspoon black pepper

→ Sweet and Tangy

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

→ Garnishes

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

# How-To Steps:

01 - Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. 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, approximately 2 to 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 juice. Serve immediately.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • The squash gets this caramelized, jammy sweetness that makes you forget you're eating something healthy.
  • It comes together in under an hour, which means you can actually make it on a random Tuesday without stress.
  • The spice blend is warm without being aggressive, so even people who usually skip heat enjoy it without hesitation.
02 -
  • Don't skip the second drizzle of maple syrup and vinegar—that's what takes this from competent roasted vegetables to something memorable and balanced.
  • Cut everything to the same size, or your squash will roast unevenly and some pieces will be falling apart while others are still firm.
03 -
  • Roast your own pumpkin seeds if you have time—toss them with a bit of salt and your oven will fill with that toasty smell that makes everything taste better before you've even eaten.
  • Don't stir the vegetables too much during roasting; let them sit and develop those caramelized edges that make all the difference in flavor and texture.
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