Stuffed squash with raclette

Step by Step

Step 1

Preheat the oven to 200ºC, gas mark 6. Score the butternut flesh in a criss-cross fashion. Place cut-side up in a baking dish, brush all over with ½ tbsp oil, then season and roast for 45 minutes or until tender but holding its shape.

Step 2

Meanwhile, roast the nuts in a small roasting tin for 10 minutes of the cooking time, then remove, cool and roughly chop. Heat 1 tbsp oil in a saucepan over a medium-high heat. Fry the onion for 5 minutes until starting to soften.

Step 3

Stir the garlic into the onions and cook for 3 minutes until turning golden. Follow with the spices, cook 1 minute, then add the rice, cooking for a final 2-4 minutes until piping hot. Stir in the thyme, nuts, lemon juice and most of the parsley. Season.

Step 4

When the squash is ready, turn the oven to a high grill setting. Pile the rice mixture into the cavity of the squash, then scatter any excess into the baking tray. Top with the cheese. Grill for 2-3 minutes until golden and bubbling. Scatter with remaining parsley and serve with a green salad, if liked.