It is cool and has been pouring since yesterday evening, with no sign of letting up anytime soon. The vantage point from my desk is perfect for watching both weather and nature. The current on the lake is from the north, and with each puff of breeze, leaves are letting go and baptizing the ground. It is gray, and natural to turn inward; checking in on one’s feelings, hopes and dreams.
My personality is one of deep feeling. I emote. As a recovering DQ, you never have to guess where I’m coming from, because I will tell you, without hesitation. I do better with small groups of like-minded people, who understand my straight forward presence. I occasionally offend people with a perceived ‘bluntness’; yet this has been a trait that I have fought hard to adopt. I was raised in a family that children were to be seen and not heard, leaving me with a feeling of invisibility that lasted well into my 30’s. Harmony trumped truth in any social situation, regardless of my internal screaming. Change is hard.
Although many people see me as strong and opinionated, I am also open-hearted, cry easily and rail against injustice, both real or perceived. I accept that I will always be a work in progress, willing to love and be loved. Cooking for others is my most sincere form of love. Nourishment comes in many forms; a kind word, a compliment, or the warmth of a hug. May we rely on each other for small gifts that are shared openly. During this season of letting go, may I shed what no longer serves me.
STUFFED ACORN SQUASH
INGREDIENTS:
2 large acorn squash (I like the Carnival variety)
2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
1 cup wild rice
3 cups water
1 medium onion, chopped fine
3 cups loosely packed, chopped greens (kale, Swiss chard or beet greens)
3/4 cup almond slivers, toasted
1/2 cup dried cherries or cranberries
1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped for garnish (optional)
DIRECTIONS:
Preheat oven to 400 degrees F., and halve the acorn squashes lengthwise down the middle. Scoop out the seeds. Place the squash cut side up on a rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush halves with 1 tablespoon olive oil. Sprinkle generously with salt and pepper, and roast for about 45 minutes, or until the squash are fork tender.
Meanwhile, place wild rice and water in heavy medium size pot. Bring to a boil, then cover and turn down to a simmer. Cook for 30 minutes to one hour, or until rice splits open and is tender. This will be determined by the freshness of your rice. Drain in wire colander and set aside.
In a medium non-stick skillet over medium-high heat, add 1 tablespoon olive oil and chopped onions. Saute until onions are translucent. Add chopped greens of your choice and continue cooking until greens are wilted. Add almonds and dried cherries or cranberries, along with drained wild rice and combine.
Fill each half of squash with filling, and place baking sheet back in oven for an additional 10 minutes. Any leftover stuffing can be refrigerated and eaten as is or spooned over a salad. Serve hot with fresh chopped parsley as garnish.
Serves: 4
“Listen! The wind is rising, and the air is wild with leaves, We have had our summer evenings, now for October eves!” ― Humbert Wolfe
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