Gem Squash is one of those versatile vegetables that can often be found in a meal, but is not often the star.
But with a little care, local squash can just melt in you mouth.
This dish only takes 45 minutes to prepare and you can have it as a meal on its own or as an unforgettable side when you are cooking for the family.
Gem squash are currently in season and, along with so much more fresh local produce, can be found at Granite Belt Farmers Market every Friday from 7.30am – 12pm.
Ingredients:
Gem squash
1 cup jasmine rice
3 onions
1 chilli
200 g baby spinach
2 tablespoons butter
Grated cheese
Paprika
Method:
1. Cook the Jasmine Rice according to instructions on the packet and set aside.
2. Cut the gem squashes in halves, spoon out the flesh. Place the squashes in a microwave dish and cook for 10 minutes on high, or until the flesh is cooked.
3. When cooked, place squashes in an ovenproof dish.
4. Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat until it stops bubbling. This allows the water from the butter to evaporate. Add the spinach and cook for about 5 minutes while stirring, until the leaves are darker and are about 1/4 of their original size.
5. Add the cooked rice to the spinach. Add the chopped chillies and onions. Mix well with two forks.
6. Add spoonfulls of this mixture to the squashes, top them up with grated cheese and sprinkle the paprika on each squash.
7. Grill in the oven for about 5 minutes or until the cheese bubbles.
8. Serve as it is as a main meal or with any meat and salads.
