Name: Roasted Delicata Squash Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 delicata squash; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon ground black pepper; 1 teaspoon fine sea salt; 4 delicata squash; 2 tablespoons coconut oil, melted; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1 tablespoon light brown sugar

Prepare to fall in love with this incredibly simple and utterly delicious Roasted Delicata Squash recipe! This dish is a game-changer for busy weeknights, transforming a humble squash into a mouthwatering side dish that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Effortless Elegance: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll create a dish that looks and tastes like it came from a fancy restaurant.
Versatile Flavor Options: Choose between a savory traditional roast or a sweet cinnamon-sugar version – both are absolutely irresistible!
Perfectly Textured: The roasting process gives you squash that’s tender on the inside with delightfully crispy edges.
No Peeling Required: The skin of delicata squash is edible, saving you time and adding a lovely texture to the dish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Delicata Squash: The star of the show! Its natural sweetness shines when roasted.
Olive Oil or Coconut Oil: For coating the squash and ensuring those crispy edges.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for bringing out the squash’s natural flavors in the traditional version.
Cinnamon and Brown Sugar: These transform the squash into a sweet treat in the alternative version.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Herb-infused: Toss with fresh rosemary or thyme for an aromatic twist.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes for heat lovers.
Cheesy Delight: Sprinkle with parmesan cheese in the last few minutes of roasting.
Maple Glaze: Swap brown sugar for maple syrup in the sweet version for a more complex sweetness.

How to Make Roasted Delicata Squash

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Squash

Crank that oven up to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This isn’t just for easy cleanup – it prevents sticking and makes your life so much easier!

Step 2: Slice and Dice

Cut off the ends of your squash, slice it lengthwise, and scoop out those seeds. Then, create beautiful half-moon slices about 1/2 inch thick.

Step 3: Season to Perfection

Toss your squash slices in a bowl with your chosen seasonings. Whether you’re going traditional or sweet, make sure every slice is well-coated.

Step 4: Roast Away

Spread those seasoned slices on your parchment-lined baking sheet and pop them in the oven. After 20 minutes, flip them over and give them another 5-10 minutes until they’re golden brown and irresistibly crispy.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Even Slices: Try to keep your slices uniform in thickness for even cooking.
Don’t Overcrowd: Give your squash slices some space on the baking sheet. Overcrowding leads to steaming instead of roasting.
Watch Closely: Every oven is different, so keep an eye on your squash in the last few minutes to avoid burning.

How to Serve

Roasted Delicata Squash is incredibly versatile:

Serve it as a side dish with roasted chicken or grilled fish.
Toss it into salads for a warm, sweet crunch.
Use it as a topping for creamy soups or risottos.
For the sweet version, serve it as a healthier alternative to dessert!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool completely and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing

While possible, freezing isn’t recommended as it can affect the texture. If you must, freeze for up to 1 month.

Reheating

For best results, reheat in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes to restore crispiness.

FAQs

Can I eat the skin of delicata squash?
Absolutely! The skin becomes tender when roasted and adds a nice texture to the dish.

How do I know when the squash is done?
The squash should be easily pierced with a fork and have golden brown edges when it’s perfectly roasted.

Can I use this method for other types of squash?
While this method works best for delicata, you can adapt it for other squash varieties. Just adjust cooking times as needed.

Is delicata squash healthy?
Yes! It’s low in calories and high in vitamins A and C, making it a nutritious choice.

This Roasted Delicata Squash recipe is your ticket to a delicious, fuss-free side dish that’s sure to impress. Whether you choose the savory or sweet route, you’re in for a treat. So grab some delicata squash and get roasting – your taste buds will thank you!