Ingredients
Scale
For the Stuffed Pumpkins:
- 4 small sugar pumpkins (or other edible varieties)
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chopped kale (stems removed)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
For Topping:
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Extra cheese (optional)
Instructions
I. Prepare the Pumpkins
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the tops off the pumpkins and scoop out the seeds and stringy insides. Set aside.
II. Cook the Orzo
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
III. Sauté the Vegetables
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Stir in the chopped kale and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
IV. Combine the Filling
- In a large bowl, mix the cooked orzo, sautéed kale and onion, mozzarella, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Adjust seasoning if needed.
V. Stuff the Pumpkins
- Spoon the orzo mixture into each pumpkin, packing it tightly. Place the tops back on the pumpkins.
VI. Bake
- Place the stuffed pumpkins in a baking dish and add a little water to the bottom to create steam.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the pumpkins are tender.
VII. Add the Topping
- In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with olive oil and the remaining Parmesan cheese.
- Remove the tops and sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture on the stuffed orzo. If desired, add extra cheese on top.
- Bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown.
VIII. Serve
- Allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Protein: 12g