How do I pick a good delicata squash?

Choose a squash that feels firm and heavy for its size, with smooth, creamy skin and green stripes and no soft spots or cracks. Medium-sized squash are the sweetest and most tender.

Do you have to peel delicata squash?

No. The skin is thin and becomes tender as it roasts, so it’s completely edible. Just wash it well before slicing. If you see a tough brown blemish, shave that spot off with a vegetable peeler.

How do you cut delicata squash?

Place the squash on a stable cutting board and use a sharp knife to slice it in half lengthwise. Scoop out the seeds and stringy flesh with a spoon, then cut each half into ½-inch thick half-moons.

How long does it take to roast delicata squash?

At 425°F, ½-inch slices take 25 to 30 minutes. Flip them halfway through, and they’re done when a fork slides in easily and the edges are caramelized.

What does delicata squash taste like?

Delicata is sweet and creamy, with a flavor somewhere between sweet potato and butternut squash. Its thin skin gives it a slightly nutty, tender bite when roasted. Unlike spaghetti squash, delicata isn’t stringy, so it’s creamy and tender instead.

Why is my roasted delicata squash soggy?

The pan was probably too crowded, or the oven wasn’t hot enough. Spread the slices in a single layer with a little space between them, use 425°F, and flip them halfway through so the moisture can escape and the edges can brown.

Can I freeze delicata squash?

Yes, though the texture will be softer after freezing. You can freeze roasted slices once they’re cool, or blanch raw slices for 2 minutes before freezing. Freeze them in a single layer first so they don’t clump, then store in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Frozen squash is best in grain bowls, mashes, and soups, where the softer texture doesn’t matter.

Should delicata squash be refrigerated?

Not whole. Uncut delicata squash keeps best at room temperature in a cool, dry place for about 1 to 3 months, and the fridge can make it spoil faster. Once you’ve cut it, wrap the cut squash tightly and refrigerate it for 3 to 4 days. Cooked squash also belongs in the fridge.

Savory Roasted Delicata Squash

Name: Savory Roasted Delicata Squash
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 medium delicata squash (about 2 pounds); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves, stems removed; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon ground black pepper; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Description

This savory roasted delicata squash is tossed with garlic, smoked paprika, and thyme, then roasted until tender and caramelized. It’s an easy side dish ready in 40 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale

2 medium delicata squash (about 2 pounds)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves, stems removed
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 425°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
Wash the delicata squash well. Slice each squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Cut into ½-inch thick half-moons.
Place the squash on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with the olive oil and sprinkle with the garlic powder, smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Toss until evenly coated and spread into a single layer.
Roast for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the squash is fork tender and caramelized around the edges.
Transfer to a serving platter and garnish with the chopped parsley, if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

Air fryer: Toss the sliced squash with the oil and seasonings and air fry in a single layer at 375°F for 15 to 18 minutes, shaking halfway, until tender and golden. Work in batches if needed.

Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Reheat on a baking sheet in a 400°F oven for 8 to 10 minutes to re-crisp the edges.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Roasting
Cuisine: American