Savory Oven-Roasted Delicata Squash with Parmesan
Discover the delightful flavors of delicata squash in this easy and delicious recipe. Roasted to perfection, the sweet and nutty taste of delicata squash pairs beautifully with a crispy, cheesy Parmesan topping. This dish not only makes for a lovely side but is also a unique way to enjoy winter squash. Perfect for those new to cooking squash, this recipe will impress your family and friends with its delightful combination of textures and flavors!
2
Servings
N/A
Calories
4
Ingredients
Ingredients
Delicata squash
1 (sliced to 1/4 inch thickness, seeds and membranes removed)
Olive oil
1 tablespoon (none)
Salt
1 teaspoon (none)
Grated Parmesan cheese
3 ounces (none)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
Carefully slice the delicata squash into 1/4 inch thick rounds and remove the seeds and membranes.
3
In a small bowl, toss the squash slices with olive oil and salt until well-coated.
4
Arrange the coated squash slices in a single layer in a baking dish.
5
Evenly sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the tops of the squash slices.
6
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and roast for about 15 minutes.
7
After 15 minutes, check for doneness; the squash should be tender and the cheese melted.
8
For an extra golden top, switch on the broiler for an additional 2-3 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
9
Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, and serve warm.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Delicata Squash?
Delicata squash is a variety of winter squash known for its thin, edible skin and sweet, nutty flavor.
Do I need to peel delicata squash?
No, one of the best features of delicata squash is that its skin is thin and perfectly edible when roasted.
How do I prepare the squash for this recipe?
Slice the squash into 1/4 inch thick rounds and remove the seeds and membranes before roasting.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
The oven should be preheated to 350°F (175°C) for this recipe.
How long does the squash need to roast?
The squash typically roasts for 15 minutes, followed by an optional 2-3 minutes of broiling for a golden top.
How thick should I slice the delicata squash?
For even cooking, slice the squash into rounds that are approximately 1/4 inch thick.
Can I eat the skin of the delicata squash?
Yes, the skin becomes tender when roasted and provides a lovely texture to the dish.
Should I remove the seeds before roasting?
Yes, you should remove the seeds and the stringy membranes from the center of the squash rounds.
Is this recipe vegetarian-friendly?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian as it uses vegetable squash and Parmesan cheese.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to yield 2 servings.
What ingredients are needed for this dish?
You will need one delicata squash, olive oil, salt, and grated Parmesan cheese.
How do I get a golden, crispy topping?
Switch on the broiler for the final 2-3 minutes of cooking to brown the Parmesan cheese.
What can I use if I don't have olive oil?
You can substitute olive oil with avocado oil, melted butter, or any neutral cooking oil.
How do I know when the squash is fully cooked?
The squash is ready when it is tender to a fork and the cheese on top has melted and turned golden.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can experiment with other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano, Gruyere, or even a sharp cheddar.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, all the primary ingredients in this recipe—squash, oil, salt, and cheese—are naturally gluten-free.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
To make it vegan, simply replace the Parmesan cheese with a vegan cheese alternative or nutritional yeast.
What is the best way to store leftovers?
Store any leftover roasted squash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
How should I reheat the roasted squash?
Reheating in an oven or air fryer is recommended to maintain the texture of the squash and the crispiness of the cheese.
Can I add spices like garlic or pepper?
Absolutely! You can customize the flavor by adding garlic powder, black pepper, or smoked paprika when tossing the squash.
Does this recipe work for beginners?
Yes, this is an excellent recipe for those new to cooking squash because it requires very little prep and few ingredients.
What does roasted delicata squash taste like?
It has a sweet, mild flavor that is often compared to a mix between a sweet potato and roasted corn.
Can I double this recipe for a larger group?
Yes, you can easily double it; just ensure the squash slices remain in a single layer for proper roasting.
What are some good pairings for this side dish?
It pairs beautifully with roasted chicken, pork, or as a topping for a hearty autumn salad.
Is delicata squash a winter squash?
Yes, delicata is a winter squash, though its skin is much thinner than other varieties like butternut or acorn squash.
Why is it important to arrange the squash in a single layer?
Arranging them in a single layer ensures that each slice roasts evenly and becomes slightly caramelized.
Can I use a baking sheet instead of a dish?
Yes, a parchment-lined baking sheet is a great alternative to a baking dish for this recipe.
Is this recipe considered healthy?
Yes, it is a nutrient-dense side dish that provides fiber and vitamins from the squash.
What is the category of this recipe?
This recipe is categorized as a Vegetable side dish.
Can I use pre-grated Parmesan cheese?
Yes, you can use pre-grated cheese, though freshly grated cheese often melts more smoothly.