This simple roasted delicata squash is the perfect autumn side dish. I love the delicate skin of the squash which adds a unique and delightful texture and flavor to this dish. The half moons roasted in a single layer is my favorite way to enjoy squash in the fall!

Until a few weeks ago, I had never cooked delicata squash before. Frankly, I found the skin of delicata squash to be intimidating since you can eat it. Boy, am I glad I went out on a limb for this one! I think they are now one of my favorite winter squashes!

What is a Delicata Squash?

Delicata Squash is a variety of winter squash that is oblong and cream-colored with green or orange stripes along it. When cooked, as its name suggests, it has a very delicate rind that can actually be eaten. This is a unique characteristic of this type of squash. It has been gaining popularity and can now be found at the grocery store. Other names for it include peanut squash, Bohemian squash, or sweet potato squash.

These squash are at their best this time of year, in the early to mid fall. Delicata squash taste similar to butternut squash. Personally, I think the best part about this squash is how easy it is to prepare since you do not have to peel it. The other great thing is its versatility! The soft sweet flesh of the squash is great with a simple brown sugar topping, or other savory toppings too. Generally, I love it with a simple olive oil and curry powder seasoning.

Are Delicatas Healthy For Me?

Of course! As with other winter squashes, delicatas contain many vitamins and minerals. Thanks to their high carotenoid content, they are a great source of Vitamin A. They are also high in dietary fiber, potassium, magnesium, Vitamin B and Vitamin C. At only eighty calories per cup, delicatas pack a serious nutritional punch!

One thing that makes delicata squash unique from other winter squashes such as acorn squash or kabocha squash is delicata's thin skin, which is actually more similar to a summer squash. This unique texture with it's similar sweetness to butternut squash make it a favorite addition to my Fall menu!

What Do I Need to Prepare My Delicata Squash?

There is a reason why this is among the easy recipes I have shared, and that is because you need very little! Although the full recipe listing is available below, here is a breakdown of what you will need for this dish.

In terms of ingredients, all you need is your delicata squash, olive oil, and curry powder. You can also crack some black pepper and sea salt over them, to taste. Equipment you will need to prepare this dish is also simple, a sharp knife, sturdy cutting board, large baking sheet, and parchment paper.

How Do I Make This Simple Roasted Delicata Squash?

While the full recipe instructions are available below, here are some tips to prepare this easy roasted delicata squash recipe!

• The first thing we will need to prepare our squash for cooking. We will need to wash it thoroughly, since we will be serving this with the thin skins attached. They can sometimes be coated with a wax to seal them and keep the squash better for longer, so give them a good scrub! Now, will cut our squash into those beautiful half moons. The best way to do this is to first cut both ends off of the squash. Then, we will cut the squash in half lengthwise. This will expose the inner cavity of the squash, which we will need to scoop out. You can keep the squash seeds to roast for a snack later on!
• Now that we have hollowed out our squash, we will cut our squash slices . I recommend cutting them a half inch thick - the small size of the slices helps them take less time to cook! Next, we will season the squash. I find a simple way to reduce dishes and save time is to do this directly on a parchment lined baking sheet rather than using a large bowl. Place your squash slices in the center of the baking sheet and sprinkle the olive oil and curry powder. Toss the squash and seasonings until the slices are well coated. Now spread the thin slices on the baking sheet so they are evenly spread and not touching each other.
• Roast them in a 425F degree oven for approximately fifteen to twenty minutes, making sure you turn them over after about ten minutes. This squash does not need much time to roast, which makes it a great side dish for elevating your weeknight dinners! They can also be a healthy snack on their own. You will know your squash is ready when it is golden brown, fork tender, and the flesh has a creamy texture. The edible skin will also turn a darker color and will be soft enough to chew. Remove from the hot oven and serve right away!

Other Flavors For Your Squash

While I love using curry powder to season my squash, here are some other seasoning ideas to take this veggie to the next level!

• For a sweet flavor, you could add a tablespoon maple syrup, brown sugar, or brown butter to your squash. Cinnamon or red pepper flakes could be great seasonings to add to this flavor profile! These flavors will play off of the natural sweetness of the squash.
• Other savory options that would be delicious include sprinkling parmesan cheese, fresh rosemary , thyme, sesame seeds, pine nuts, or even cayenne pepper!

Delicata squash is an extremely versatile squash and I hope you pick one up at your next farmer's market. It is the perfect addition to your fall dinner menu. This is easily my favorite squash and I know I will be making delicata's in many variations of this recipe throughout the season!

What Main Dishes Should I Serve My Squash With?

Here are some amazing mains you can serve with your roasted delicata squash to create a complete and healthy meal!

• Simple Spice Rubbed Salmon
• Copycat Olive Garden Garlic Rosemary Chicken
• Fresh Pesto Baked Salmon
• Simple Lemon Butter Cod with Thyme
• Lemon and Herb Butterflied Chicken

Other Vegetable Side Dishes You Will Love

Here are some more healthy recipes for delicious veggie side dishes you will love!

• Simple Crispy Smash Potatoes
• Simple Crispy Roasted Chickpeas
• Greek Style Lemon Potatoes
• Sautéed Lemon Broccolini