Learn how to make the Perfect Roasted Delicata Squash in this easy, foolproof recipe! With tips and tricks on how to make it come out perfect every time. You can either make it with plain salt and pepper, or try my autumnal seasoning with maple syrup (for a touch of sweetness) and thyme!
I love delicata squash because it is, in my opinion, the easiest squash to work with. It’s the easiest to cut through, and the cleanest to scoop out. All squashes continue gooey insides with goop (for lack of a better word) and seeds. Spooning out this goop is very easy with delicata. So, since I’ve been eating it so much, I wanted to create a guide on how to make the perfect roasted delicata squash.
In addition to my tips and tricks, I also give two different seasoning options. One is a plain version with just salt and pepper. The other version (my favorite) adds maple syrup to bring out the sweetness of the squash, and thyme for that savory autumn flavor. Either way is delicious, and you can use the squash in my Thanksgiving Salad or Dense Bean Salad recipe. Enjoy!!
For some more delicious, squash-y recipes, try my Butternut Squash Ginger Soup, this Creamy Honeynut Squash Pasta, or this Vegetarian Butternut Squash Carbonara!
The Perfect Roasted Delicata Squash
Ingredients
Plain Version
- 1 Medium Delicata Squash
- 1 Tbs Olive Oil
- 1/4 Tsp Salt or more, to taste
- Fresh-Cracked Black Pepper to taste
Add for Maple Thyme Version
- 1 Tsp Dried Thyme
- 1/2 Tbsp Maple Syrup
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F.
- Cut the ends off your delicata squash, then cut it in half lengthwise.
- Using a spoon, scoop out the inner seeds and stringy bits (you can save the seeds for another recipe). Then, cut the squash into half-moons about 1/2" thick or so (it doesn't need to be exact).
- Lay the sliced squash on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle over the olive oil, salt, and pepper (and maple syrup and thyme if making that version). Use your hands to mix it all together until every squash piece is evenly coated. Then, spread the squash back out on the tray so that no pieces are overlapping.
- Bake the squash in the oven for 20 minutes, then take out and stir them around. Make sure after you stir the squash, that you spread them out again, making sure no pieces are overlapping.
- Bake for another 10-15 minutes, until the pieces are fork-tender and just starting to brown on the edges. Be sure to check often close to the end of the cooking time, to prevent overcooking!
- When done, take out of the oven and let cool. Serve, and enjoy!
Notes
- This recipe can easily be doubled if you want to cook more than one squash. Just note that you may have to use two baking sheets, because you don’t want to overcrowd the squash on the pan. In addition, you may also have to increase the cooking time for a little bit.
- Fork-tender means that a vegetable is cooked enough that a fork can easily pierce it with just a little resistance. You want the squash to be soft but not mushy. Towards the end of the cooking time, you can test a piece of squash with a fork to check doneness.
- You can also sub honey instead of maple syrup.
Nutrition
Roasted Delicata Squash FAQs
What does delicata squash taste like?
Delicata squash has a sweet, nutty flavor, almost like a cross between a sweet potato and a butternut squash. It’s less earthy than butternut or acorn squash, and when roasted, it develops golden, caramelized edges.
Are you supposed to eat the skin of delicata squash?
Yes! The skin is edible, so don’t worry about removing it.
What are the health benefits of delicata squash?
Delicata squash is a source of Vitamin C, Vitamin A, and calcium, so it’s a deliciously healthy addition to any diet!
How do you prevent delicata squash from getting mushy when roasting?
Be sure to check for fork-tenderness towards the end of cooking time! I go over how to do this in the recipe notes.
How long will uncooked delicata squash last?
I recommend storing delicata squash in a cool place (for example, not near the oven) for up to 4-6 weeks.
P.S.
For more plant-forward recipes, dinner parties, and New England lifestyle inspiration, be sure to follow along on Pinterest, Instagram, and TikTok! If you make a recipe, please tag me in the photo and use the hashtag #wellandfull so I can see! I love seeing your creations!
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