TEX MEX STUFFED ACORN SQUASH ENJOY DAN:

                 TEX MEX STUFFED ACORN SQUASH by CHEF DAN:

Serves 4

INGREDIENTS:

2-acorn squash

1/2-cup ground turkey

1-tablespoon olive oil

1-cup black beans

1-onion, diced

1/2-bell pepper, yellow or orange, diced

2 garlic cloves, minced

1-tablespoon chili powder

1-teaspoon EACH cumin and turmeric

1 cup chopped tomatoes

1/2-teaspoon salt

1 jalapeno diced

1/3-cup cheddar cheese, shredded

DIRECTIONS: (PREHEAT OVEN TO 375 F) (THEN 325 F)

1.   Lightly coat a baking sheet with Pam.

2.   Cut squash-in-half horizontally.

3.   Scoop out the seeds and discard.

4.   Brush with olive oil.

5.   Place the squash cut-side down on the baking sheet.

6.   Bake until tender about 45 minutes.

7.   Add 1/2-tablespoon oil to a skillet over medium-heat when sizzling.

8.   Add ground turkey and cook until browned 3-5 minutes.

9.   Add onion and bell pepper and sauté for 3-5 minutes.

10  Stir in garlic, chili powder, cumin and turmeric, cook for 30 seconds.

11  Stir in tomatoes, beans, salt and jalapeno pepper

12  Reduce heat to simmer, cover and cook for about 12 minutes.

13  When the squash is tender, reduce oven heat to 325 F.

14  Fill the squash halves with the turkey mixture.

15  Top with cheese.

16  Place on the baking sheet and bake for about 10 minutes or until cheese is melted.

ENJOY DAN:                                COURAGE-STAY STRONG-AND HOPE!!