Delicata squash—oh, how it sings to the soul of fall! It’s like the underdog of the squash family, often overshadowed by its louder cousins like butternut or acorn. But once you try roasting it with a little olive oil, salt, and maybe a sprinkle of cinnamon, you’ll wonder why it wasn’t your go-to autumn staple all along. Just last week, while sipping a pumpkin spice latte (yes, I’m that person), I discovered a new twist on an old favorite, and let’s just say, my taste buds are still singing.
Steps
- Preheat your oven to 400ºF to get it ready for roasting.
- Slice off the ends of the delicata squash and cut it in half lengthwise. Remove the seeds with a spoon.
- Cut the squash into ½-inch wide slices for even cooking.
- Arrange the squash slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Drizzle the squash with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, garlic powder, and pepper. Toss until the squash is evenly coated.
- Spread the squash out on the baking sheet in a single layer to ensure proper caramelization.
- Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast the squash for 20 minutes.
- Remove the squash from the oven, flip the pieces over, and roast for an additional 10-15 minutes until browned to your preference.
- Taste the roasted squash and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve warm and enjoy.
Ingredients
- 1 delicata squash (approximately ? lb.)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/8 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
FAQ
- Can you eat the skin of Delicata squash?
- Absolutely! The skin of Delicata squash is completely edible, which makes it incredibly easy to prepare since there’s no need to peel it. Plus, its beautiful yellow and green striped skin adds a lovely visual appeal to your dish.
- How should I season roasted Delicata squash?
- While Delicata squash is delicious without any seasoning, you can enhance its flavor with a touch of salt, pepper, and garlic powder. For a different taste profile, consider adding sweet, smoky, or spicy spices like brown sugar, smoked paprika, or cayenne pepper to complement the squash’s natural sweetness.
- What dishes pair well with roasted Delicata squash?
- Roasted Delicata squash makes a versatile side dish for any roasted autumn or winter meats, such as Herb Roasted Tenderloin or Cider Roasted Turkey. It also works well in fall-inspired salads or as part of a sheet pan meal.
- What makes roasted Delicata squash taste so good?
- Roasting Delicata squash brings out its natural sweetness and caramelizes its sugars, giving it a buttery, caramel-like flavor that’s almost dessert-like. This rich and sweet taste profile makes it a delightful addition to any meal.
- Is Delicata squash easy to prepare?
- Yes, Delicata squash is not only easy to work with due to its softer texture compared to other squashes, but it also requires minimal preparation since you don’t have to peel it. Just slice, season, and roast for a simple yet delicious dish.
Tips
- Ensure the delicata squash slices have ample space on the baking sheet to achieve optimal caramelization. Overcrowding can hinder the roasting process.
- Remember that delicata squash skin is edible, simplifying preparation as you don’t need to peel it. The vibrant striped skin also adds visual appeal to your dish.
- While delicata squash is naturally flavorful, consider experimenting with additional seasonings like smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for a sweet-smoky-spicy twist.
- Pair roasted delicata squash with seasonal meats or incorporate it into autumn salads for a complete and satisfying meal.
Equipment
- Enamelware Sheet Pan
- Parchment Paper
- Chef’s Knife
