African-Spiced Ricotta-Stuffed Acorn Squash

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

In a small bowl, mix the Ricotta, Parmesan, garlic, cumin, coriander, cinnamon and paprika. Season with salt and pepper. This will be your spiced ricotta mixture.

Brush the cut sides of the acorn squash with oil and season with salt and pepper.

Place the squash halves, cut-side down, on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the squash is tender but not mushy.

Remove the squash from the oven and allow it to cool slightly. Then, flip the squash halves over so the cut sides face up.

Stuff each squash half with the spiced ricotta mixture, packing it in gently.

Return the stuffed squash to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the ricotta is heated through and slightly golden on top.

Remove the stuffed acorn squash from the oven and garnish with cilantro or parsley and, if you like, a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for some heat.

Serve hot as a side dish, appetizer or as a vegetarian main course.

Servings: 4 appetizers or side dishes

Recipe courtesy Chef Richard Garcia, Remington Hospitality, for the California Milk Advisory Board

Chef Notes: The blend of cumin, coriander, cinnamon and paprika in the spiced ricotta mixture adds an exotic African flavor to the creamy ricotta and pairs beautifully with the sweet, nutty taste of acorn squash.