Roasted Delicata Squash

Serves 4 | Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 22 minutes

Available from the end of summer to end of fall, Delicata squash is a fantastic vegetable to transition seasons. It’s also super easy to prepare because you don’t have to peel it! Be sure to wash and dry the skin during your preparation. If you’re new or seasoned to this squash this method is always a good one to remember. Once you learn this way, build on it. Add some pomegranates and toasted walnuts for added texture and flavors. Try brown some butter, rosemary and adding splash of lemon juice to amplify the nuttiness of the squash.

Ingredients

2 medium delicata squash (about 2 pounds, 907g total), washed and dried
2 tablespoons (28 grams) unsalted butter, melted
1 teaspoon (4g) kosher salt (or less or more to taste)
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or less or more to taste)

Chef Tips

The squash can be served hot, warm or cold. Goes well with some quick grilled sausages. Leftovers are great tossed in a salad the next day.

Preparation

Step 1

Adjust oven rack to lowest position and preheat oven to 425°F (218°C).

Step 2
Trim both ends of each delicata squash. Stand one squash up on the larger cut side and, using a chef’s knife, slice it lengthwise, down through the center of the squash, creating two even halves. Use a soup spoon to scrape out and discard seeds and any fibrous flesh. Repeat with second squash.

Step 3

Place all 4 squash halves cut-side down on a large cutting board. Cut each squash half crosswise into 1-inch-thick slices. Transfer slices to large bowl. Add melted butter, salt, and pepper, and toss to evenly coat squash slices.

Step 4

Transfer squash slices to a rimmed baking sheet, arranging them around the perimeter of the sheet with an even amount of space between each slice. Roast until squash slices are golden brown on the bottom, about 12 minutes. Use kitchen tweezers or tongs to flip each slice. Rotate baking sheet 180 degrees, return it to oven, and continue to roast until second side is golden brown, about 10 minutes. Remove sheet from oven, transfer squash slices to a platter, and serve.