Recipe Squash and Kidney Beans
Whip up a hearty, flavorful Recipe Squash and Kidney Beans everyone will love! Easy, healthy, and perfect for any meal. Try it today!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups squash butternut, acorn, or your favorite variety, peeled and diced
- 1 can 15 oz kidney beans, drained and rinsed (or 1.5 cups cooked dried beans)
- 1 medium onion finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or any cooking oil of your choice
- Spices and Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon turmeric optional, for added color and health benefits
- ½ teaspoon chili powder adjust to taste
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional Add-Ins
- 1 cup diced tomatoes fresh or canned
- 1 bell pepper chopped (for extra crunch and flavor)
- 1 cup vegetable broth for a saucier consistency
- Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
- Dice the Squash: Peel and chop the squash into bite-sized cubes. If you’re short on time, pre-cut squash works just as well!
- Chop the Aromatics: Finely dice the onion and mince the garlic. These will form the flavorful foundation of your dish.
- Prep the Beans: Drain and rinse the kidney beans thoroughly to remove any excess sodium.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it turns soft and translucent.
- Toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
Step 3: Cook the Squash
- Add the diced squash to the skillet and stir to coat it with the onion and garlic mixture.
- Sprinkle in the spices: cumin, smoked paprika, turmeric (if using), chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure every piece of squash is seasoned.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the squash begins to soften but still holds its shape.
Step 4: Add the Kidney Beans
- Stir in the kidney beans and any optional add-ins like diced tomatoes or bell peppers.
- For a saucier consistency, pour in 1 cup of vegetable broth. This also helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let everything simmer for 10-15 minutes. This allows the squash to become tender and the flavors to deepen.
Step 5: Final Touches
- Taste and adjust the seasoning. Need more spice? Add a pinch of chili powder or cayenne pepper.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Pro Tips for Success
- Don’t Overcook the Squash: You want it tender but still holding its shape for the perfect texture.
- Make It Creamy: Stir in a splash of coconut milk for a rich, creamy twist.
- Double the Batch: This dish reheats beautifully, so feel free to make extra for leftovers!
Notes
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 6g
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 12g
- Sugar: 8g