Quinoa with Butternut Squash, Almonds, and Parmesan Cheese

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a delightful balance of textures and flavors. The butternut squash brings a natural sweetness, while the quinoa adds protein and a nutty base. Almonds provide a pleasant crunch, and Parmesan ties everything together with rich, savory notes. It’s a dish that works well for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even as part of a holiday spread. Plus, it’s packed with vitamins, minerals, and plant-based protein.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 medium butternut squash, 1–1 1/2 pounds, peeled, seeded, and cut into 1/2-inch cubes
• 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 cup quinoa
• 2 cups water
• 1/2 cup sliced almonds
• 1 small onion, finely chopped (about 1 cup)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 large lemon, zested and juiced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the cubed butternut squash on a baking sheet. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and toss to coat. Roast for 25–30 minutes, turning halfway, until tender and lightly golden.
3. Meanwhile, rinse the quinoa under cold water. In a medium saucepan, combine the quinoa and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork.
4. In a large skillet, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the almonds and toast for 2–3 minutes until golden. Remove and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add the onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and thyme, cooking for another 1–2 minutes.
6. Add the cooked quinoa, roasted squash, lemon juice, lemon zest, and parsley to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
7. Sprinkle with toasted almonds and Parmesan cheese before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Swap the almonds for walnuts or pecans for a different nutty flavor.
• Add dried cranberries for a touch of sweetness.
• Use feta instead of Parmesan for a tangier cheese option.
• Try adding spinach or kale for an extra boost of greens.
• Make it vegan by leaving out the Parmesan or using a dairy-free alternative.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or olive oil to prevent drying out. This dish can also be reheated in the microwave. Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the squash and quinoa may change.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can roast the squash and cook the quinoa in advance, then combine everything just before serving.

Do I need to peel the butternut squash?

Yes, the peel is tough and not pleasant to eat, so peeling is recommended.

Can I use pre-cut butternut squash?

Absolutely, pre-cut squash saves time and works perfectly in this recipe.

What type of quinoa works best?

Any variety of quinoa white, red, or tri-color works well. White quinoa is the mildest in flavor.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, quinoa is naturally gluten-free, and all the other ingredients in this recipe are gluten-free as well.

How can I make it more filling?

You can add grilled chicken, roasted chickpeas, or sautéed shrimp for extra protein.

Can I substitute the Parmesan?

Yes, try pecorino, feta, or a plant-based cheese alternative.

What can I serve this with?

It pairs well with roasted chicken, salmon, or can be enjoyed as a standalone vegetarian meal.

Can I toast the almonds in advance?

Yes, toasted almonds can be prepared ahead and stored in an airtight container at room temperature.

Is this dish good for meal prep?

Yes, it reheats well and makes a great option for healthy lunches throughout the week.

Conclusion

Quinoa with Butternut Squash, Almonds, and Parmesan Cheese is a flavorful, nutrient-dense recipe that’s easy to prepare and versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you serve it as a comforting main dish or a festive side, it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

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