This roasted delicata squash recipe is quick and easy to make with a spice mixture that tastes incredible. This delicious side dish for simple roasted delicata will quickly become one of your favorite things about the fall and winter season.
This post has been updated from the original which was published on November 20, 2014.
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You won’t find an easier or tastier delicata squash recipe out there. Good thing my favorite way to enjoy delicata squash is roasted. Add some simple spices and we’re talking next level yum. Plus, I just love a cozy recipe that makes the house smell divine! Don’t you?
The best part is the skin of delicata squash is much softer than other winter squashes, making it easier to cut. The thinner skin is edible…so there’s no peeling necessary. I’m talking less prep work than other types of winter squash and tender flesh that will have you coming back for more of this roasted squash.
How to shop for and store Delicata Squash
- Season: Delicata squash is available from late summer through early winter and can be found in farmers markets as well as your local grocery store.
- Looks: Check the skin to be sure there are no soft spots, including at the stem. The thin skin should be firm and bright yellow with vertical forest green stripes or orange stripes. Avoid delicata squash that is light green, it was picked before it had enough time to ripen naturally.
- Weight: All winter squash should be heavy for its size, which is a sign there is plenty of water inside and it’s not already dried out or spoiled.
- It will stay good, uncut, stored in a cool, dry place for two months.
More on Delicata Squash
- The delicate skin gets even more tender when roasted making it delicious and easy to digest. The edible skin is loaded with fiber and a good source of Vitamin A.
- Delicata squash is relatively low in calories and moderate when it comes to carbs. 60 calories and 18 carbs in a 1 cup serving. Winter squash fall somewhere in between starchy and non-starchy vegetables.
- High in fiber: helps regulate blood sugar, digestive health and reduces the risk of obesity and heart disease.
- Vitamin A: supports clear skin, eye health and and the immune system.
- Potassium: helps balance electrolytes supporting healthy blood pressure and heart rate.
- Vitamin C: beneficial to improve our body’s immunity and the health of skin.
- B Vitamins:help enhance energy levels.
- Vegan source of Omega 3 Fatty acids, which brings down inflammation.
Why you will love this recipe
- Easy side dish that uses pantry spices, olive oil and delicata squash. That’s it!
- No peeling required and the edible skin adds bonus fiber too.
- The natural sugars of the tender squash come out with roasting, so there’s no need for maple syrup to sweeten.
- Delicious spice blend for this roasted delicata squash makes this a healthy and addictive snack choice.
- It’s vegan and gluten-free…so everyone can enjoy it.
How to cut delicata squash
First cut a thin slice off both ends. A flat bottom will help help the squash stabilize the squash to halve lengthwise. Use a spoon to scoop out the seeds.
Turn the scooped out squash halves cut side down on the cutting board. Use a sharp knife to create half moons.
How to make this recipe
Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Line with unbleached parchment paper for easier clean up, but it’s not necessary.
Load the squash pieces into a medium sized bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle on the cumin, coriander, cinnamon, chili powder, white pepper and sea salt. Mix well. It’s easiest to evenly distribute the spices if you use your hands, otherwise use a large pair of tongs.
Spread spiced delicata squash on a large rimmed sheet pan in a single layer. Roast in preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping midway through. The best way to tell that it’s done is the golden brown color and also the roasted squash will be tender when pierced with a fork.
Sprinkle with fresh herbs and serve warm.
Debra’s Pro Tips:
- Garnish roasted squash with fresh thyme, rosemary or chopped parsley.
- Toss pumpkin seeds in the same spice mixture and toss in for the last 10 minutes of roasting…the added crunch is fun and tasty.
- Use a large baking sheet to fit them in a single layer and they’ll get a bit crispy. If they’re too crowded they’ll steam rather than roast. Use two pans if needed.
- Totally acceptable to grab some straight from the pan to snack on…consider doubling the recipe.
More winter squash recipes
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📖 Recipe
Roasted Delicata Squash Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 delicata squash
- 2 Tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons ground coriander
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon white pepper
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400.
- Halve squash lengthwise and scoop out seeds.*
- Cut into ½” thick strips across the width of the squash to create sliver moon shapes.
- In a medium sized bowl, toss the oil and spices with the squash until evenly coated.
- Spread on large rimmed baking sheet. **
- Roast for 15 minutes. Flip and roast for another 10 minutes. Depending on how thick you’ve sliced the squash, it could be ready to flip in 10 minutes, so keep an eye on it.
Notes
- There is no need to peel the squash. The skins will soften while roasting and add to the nutritional value and the taste. Wash thoroughly before cutting.
- Arrange squash on a baking tray in a single layer if you want it to get crispy. You may need to use several baking trays to accomplish this. Otherwise, it will “steam” if it’s crowded. Either way, it will be delicious, it’s just good to decide in advance what you’re trying to achieve.
- Substitute acorn squash if delicata isn’t available. Use 2 medium sized acorns and follow the same directions.
Nutrition
Note
The nutrition calculations were done using online tools. To obtain the most accurate representation of the nutritional information in any given recipe, you should calculate the nutritional information with the actual ingredients you used. You are ultimately responsible for ensuring that any nutritional information is accurate, complete and useful.
Trent peek
I have been looking for a squash recipe for my gluten free diet. This will definitely work for me. Thanks for sharing.
Debra Klein
Delicata Squash is naturally delicious….no added gluten necessary!
Petra
I am also gluten- free and always looking for a good recipe. Thank you
Debra Klein
This is a great recipe for those that are gluten-free….so delicious and satisfying.
Kileen
This looks so yummy and perfect for the season. Definitely have to make this sometime!! I’m sure my family would love it.
Kileen
cute & little
Debra Klein
Absolutely….yummy and seasonal. Enjoy.
Christa
This recipe looks so good! I love squash, it’s such a perfect fall ingredient.
Debra Klein
Yes…..just what I’m craving this time of year.
Julie Ruhl
This came at the perfect time. I’d definitely adding this to our Thanksgiving dinner menu. I absolutely love the idea of having a lighter option on the table.
http://www.ruhlsoftheroad.com
Debra Klein
A great plan! Happy and Healthy Thanksgiving!
Charlene
mmm I love roasted squash! Definitely saving this recipe for later!
Debra Klein
Totally agree, roasted squash is the best!
Chel
Honestly, I haven’t tried much squash. Eep! I know!! Bad me! But this looks really tasty. Excellent recipe and something that even I can’t burn. YAY!! 😀
Debra Klein
Oh….be careful if you’re prone to burning things!! Super tasty, enjoy.
aisasami
I never had roast squash before, so I like to try this. I wonder what kind of herbs you can use?
Debra Klein
The spices listed are my favorites for squash: cumin, coriander, cinnamon, chili powder….
Gloria
All of the squashes this time of year are FANTASTIC!! This looks like a great holiday side dish. I could eat this all year long. Health and delicious.
Debra Klein
Totally agree…every day would be fine with me!
Sean@Diversivore
Love me some delicata squash, and like you, I love a good recipe that fills the house with warmth and delicious fragrance on a cold day. We’ve got an 8 month old, so a lot of our veggie prep involves turning things into purees these days (including delicata), but I’m going to have to make an exception in order to do these delightful roasted slices. Perfect with all kinds of meals!
Debra Klein
So fun to have a wee one around….before you know it you’ll be sharing non-purees…the time goes so quickly.
Jenni LeBaron
I love roasted delicata squash and this recipe looks lovely. The blend of spices you used is perfect for fall and I think these would be tremendous with any main course. Can’t wait to add these to our dinner rotation!
Debra Klein
You’re so right…flavorful, but also neutral enough to go with all the good stuff!
Dana
I don’t think I’ve ever used delicata squash before, and looking at this recipe, I know I HAVE to. And soon. I might even rock this at Friendsgiving next weekend. I love how simple and fuss-free it is, yet it’s so pretty!
Debra Klein
A great choice for Friendsgiving. Unexpected, yet still totally within the theme. Have fun.
Trish Bozeman
YES! Delicata is our absolute favorite squash. It’s so easy to prep and small enough to quickly cook AND it tastes the best in my opinion. Thanks for all your tips about what to do with it because we always just roast it and eat it as a side or stuff it. Love your ideas about frittatas and even oatmeal! I’m trying those!
Debra Klein
Excellent….like you, I’m happy to enjoy roasted delicata as is…and also in creative ways. HAVE FUN with it.
Taleen | Just As Tasty
I love squash! I am totally pinning this for Fall cooking!
Debra Klein
Fall is just around the corner! I can’t wait for all those cozy smells in the kitchen.
Alexandra
So many delicious uses for this lovely squash! A great side dish or lovely addition to salad!
Debra Klein
Yes….I usually serve as a side, and make enough for leftovers to toss onto my salad for lunch the next day!
Robyn
I love roast squash and this recipe has so many delicious uses – from salads to sides.
Debra Klein
Exactly! I can sense a double batch in the making.
Emily Flint
I LOVE delicata squash and I was so happy I found your recipe with all of these delicious spices, it was so good!
Andréa Janssen
I love roasted squash and this recipe with all of it’s flavors is certainly a winner
Sue
This squash looks perfect for a side dish on Thanksgiving, but really anytime in fall or winter. Thanks for the inspiration, I will be trying this one very soon, maybe with some different spices, etc. 🙂
Debra Klein
That’s the beauty of this recipe….so easy and you can customize the spices to match your taste palette.
Mama Maggie's Kitchen
I think I just heard my tummy growl. lol! Must print the recipe.
Debra Klein
YES!! Enjoy.
Chef Dennis
This recipe looks soooo delicious! I wish this were in front of me right now.
Debra Klein
Same….those delicata squash are about to be in season!
Raquel
I cannot wait to try this! Looks beautiful and thanks for the preparation tips!
Debra Klein
You’re welcome….nutritious, delicious and beautiful too!!
michele
I’ll keep my eye open for some delicata squash – I hate peeling squash!
Debra Klein
They’re usually available starting in September and then all through the winter. YAY for no peeling.
Gloria
I have yet to try this varitey of squash. I love all the squashes. This is the perfect side dish for the holiday dinner table.
Debra Klein
Exactly….delicata is awesome to work with and increasingly widely available.
Eva
Peeling squashes is usually my least favourite thing to do so I love that peeling here gets completely optional! I don’t think I have ever seen this type of squash here but I might just not know the name in the local language. I’ll investigate because I’m thrilled to try!
Debra Klein
Definitely look for delicata….and also acorn squash, if sliced thinly doesn’t need to be peeled when you roast it. Hope you find some.
Sharon
This simple roasted squash recipe is so good and easy. Great as a side for roasted chicken.
Debra Klein
Exactly why I make it so often….delicious and goes well with so many things!
Jenny
My favorite squash is Delicata, I just love how it looks and tastes. I make it often with just simple seasonings and now I really like your recipe and suggestions. Next time I will follow your lead, I bet it is many levels up from what I have been doing. Thanks so much for the recipe!
Debra Klein
It’s my fave too….gorgeous presentation, terrific taste….AND, the best part, it doesn’t require peeling and is super easy to cut!!
Kushigalu
One of the best recipe to try with squash. So delicious. Perfect for fall. Thanks for sharing
Debra Klein
Totally agree…it’s so easy and tasty too!
Paige
Yum, LOVE Delicata squash and I love this recipe! Would be great with a salad for dinner…thanks for this!
Debra Klein
I serve it as a side dish…goes well with everything….and I often put the leftovers on salad. It’s a great combo.
Jacqueline Debono
I love that you don’t have to peel the squash in this recipe. That’s always a hassle! This spiced delicata squash looks and sounds like a great side dish for autumn/winter entertaining. Going to give it a try at the weekend!
Debra Klein
I know….some of the hard squash are so hard to peel…delicata are probably the easiest of the squash to cook….and these are so tasty too.
Tara
I love roasted squash, but have never tried this variety before. I loved the flavor and texture. So delicious!
Debra Klein
Couldn’t agree more.
Natalie
Oh wow, This squash sounds so delicious. Added cumin and cinnamon makes this recipe so interesting. I can’t wait to give this a try.
Debra Klein
The cinnamon gives the illusion of sweet and the cumin does the same for savory…it’s one of my favorite spice combos!
Karen
I love delicata squash! This recipe was so perfect, very simply and highlights the natural flavors. I made exactly like the recipe instructed and it turned out perfect. Will make again soon!
Debra Klein
Thanks for the kind words!
Amy Liu Dong
This squash dish is so unique and a great concept that everyone will definitely love and enjoy! It looks so yummy with its crispy texture! Loved it!