Crab-Stuffed Acorn Squash with Spinach and Mozzarella
Looking for a delicious and comforting way to enjoy your Larry's Catch snow crab? This stuffed acorn squash recipe is loaded with fresh spinach, mozzarella cheese, and a crunchy panko breadcrumb topping. It’s perfect for a cozy night in or as a special dish for guests.
Ingredients:
- 2 medium acorn squashes, halved and seeds removed
- 2 Snow Crab clusters (cooked) from Larry's Catch
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish
Instructions:
Prepare the Squash:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Drizzle the cut sides of the acorn squash with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
- Place the squash halves cut side down on a baking sheet and roast for 30-40 minutes, until tender.
Boil and Deshell the Snow Crab Clusters:
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil, then add the snow crab clusters.
- Boil for 3-4 minutes to heat them through.
- Remove the crab from the water and allow it to cool slightly.
- Using kitchen shears or crab crackers, carefully crack open the shells and remove the meat, keeping it in chunks for better texture in the stuffing.
Cook the Filling:
- While the squash is roasting, heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic. Cook for 4-5 minutes, until softened.
- Stir in the fresh spinach and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until wilted.
- Add the deshelled crab meat, panko breadcrumbs, mozzarella cheese, parsley, and lemon juice. Mix well.
- Season with salt and pepper, and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the filling is heated through.
Stuff the Squash:
- Remove the roasted squash from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- Turn the squash halves cut side up and fill them with the crab, spinach, and cheese mixture.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the mozzarella is melted and the panko topping is golden.
Serve:
- Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs and serve hot.
- This dish is perfect as a main course or paired with a light side salad.
Tips for Making Crab-Stuffed Acorn Squash
- Fresh Ingredients: Larry's Catch snow crab clusters bring incredible flavor to this dish.
- Texture: The combination of fresh spinach, mozzarella cheese, and panko breadcrumbs creates a satisfying texture in each bite.
- Cheese Options: For a twist, you can swap out mozzarella for a sharper cheese like cheddar or Gruyère.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this crab-stuffed acorn squash with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal. You can also serve it alongside a hearty soup or crusty bread.