Delicata Squash Recipe
Make Delicata Squash Recipe in just 40m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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Ingredients
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Roasted Delicata Squash
Optional finishing & variations
Method
Roasted Delicata Squash
- 1
Preheat and prepare
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat for easier cleanup.
- 2
Wash and halve
Rinse the delicata squash under cool water to remove any dirt. Using a sharp chef's knife, trim the ends, then slice each squash lengthwise from stem to tip, creating two halves. If squash is small, you may leave whole and slice crosswise into 1/2-inch rounds instead.
- 3
Scoop seeds
Use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and stringy membrane from the center of each half. Discard seeds or reserve for toasting.
- 4
Slice
Place the squash cut-side down and slice into 1/2-inch thick crescents (or leave as halves for stuffed presentation). Aim for uniform thickness so pieces roast evenly.
- 5
Toss with oil and seasoning
In a large bowl, combine the sliced squash, 2 tbs olive oil, 1 tsp kosher salt, and 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper. Toss until all pieces are evenly coated.
- 6
Arrange on sheet
Arrange the squash slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, cut side up or down (either is fine; cut side down gives more caramelization). Do not overcrowd — use two sheets if necessary.
- 7
Roast
Roast in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, flipping once halfway through (around 10–12 minutes) until edges are golden brown and flesh is tender when pierced with a fork. Thicker slices may need up to 30 minutes.
- 8
Finish and rest
Remove the pan from the oven and let the squash rest on the sheet for 2–3 minutes so juices redistribute.
Optional finishing & serving
- 9
Sweet glaze
If using maple syrup or honey and cinnamon: drizzle 1 tbs of maple or honey over the hot squash and sprinkle with 1 tsp ground cinnamon. Return to the oven for 1–2 minutes if you want the glaze warmed and slightly sticky.
- 10
Savory toppings
For a savory finish: scatter 1 tbs toasted pepitas and 2 tbs crumbled feta or goat cheese over the warm squash. Drizzle with 1 tsp lemon juice and sprinkle 1 tbs chopped parsley or thyme.
- 11
Serve
Transfer to a serving platter and serve warm as a side dish, or cool slightly and add to salads, grain bowls, or sandwiches. Leftovers keep refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 4 days; reheat in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 8–10 minutes to restore texture.