Roasted Delicata Squash with Thyme

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Roasted Delicata Squash with Thyme is a simple side dish that you’re going to wish you had tried sooner. Read on for a delicious way to prepare this cousin of zucchini and summer squash.

Close up of Roasted Delicata Squash on a white plate

So what does delicata squash taste like? It has a smooth, buttery texture and tastes similar to butternut squash or sweet potato. BUT, there is no peeling required. That’s right. You can cut this squash in half lengthwise, scoop out the seeds, then simply slice and roast. The skin roasts up beautifully and is not tough or bitter.

Delicata squash is definitely delicious enough to simply coat with a bit of salt, pepper, and oil for roasting, but I really love adding the thyme and smoked paprika for an added depth of flavor. However you choose to season it, I do believe delicata squash will become as much of a favorite in your house as it is in mine.

Overhead shot of Roasted Delicata Squash on a white plate with yellow towel

FAQs:

Is the skin of delicata squash edible?

Absolutely! In fact, this is one of the reasons I really love this recipe. With no need to peel the squash, prep comes together in about five minutes. Just make sure to give it a good wash before prepping since you’re not removing the skin.

Is delicata squash healthy?

In short yes. It’s definitely lower carb than sweet potato (about a quarter of the carbs in an equal amount of sweet potato), and delicata squash is an excellent source of vitamin A while also being a good source of vitamin C, fiber, and potassium. For more information about delicata squash, check out What the Heck is Delicata Squash from the Farmers' Almanac.

How long can I store delicata squash?

While delicata squash cannot be stored as long as butternut or spaghetti squash, you can still store it for about 4 weeks. Just make sure to store in a cool, dry place.

What can I substitute for delicata squash?

Acorn or butternut squash are good choices, but keep in mind that you will need to peel them. You could also use sweet potato.

Ingredients for Roasted Delicata Squash with Thyme:

Whole delicata squash with seasonings and olive oil in prep bowls on a black surface

Delicata squash: It's lower in carbs than the similarly flavored butternut squash.

Extra virgin olive oil: Allows the spices to adhere to the squash.

Seasonings: Thyme, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper give the roasted squash a savory flavor.

How to Prepare Roasted Delicata Squash:

Preheat oven to 400ºF. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment, and set aside.
Cut the ends off the squash, then cut in half lengthwise. Using a spoon, scoop the seeds out of the squash, then place cut side down on a cutting board. Cut the squash into half-inch slices, and place the sliced squash into a large bowl.
Drizzle the squash slices with olive oil, and sprinkle with thyme, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Use a large spoon to mix together all the spices with the delicata squash.
Place the squash on the parchment lined baking sheet ensuring it doesn’t overlap. Roast the squash in the middle portion of the oven for 25-30 minutes, turning once half way through. Squash should be very tender and slightly browned when finished.

Cut delicata squash on a green cutting board — Cut squash into slices.

Tossing delicata squash with olive oil and seasoning in a stainless steel bowl — Cut squash into slices.

Serving Suggestions:

For a more intense savory flavor, substitute the seasonings with a few teaspoons of BBQ Dry Rub.
Top mixed greens with your Roasted Delicata Squash with Thyme for a hearty, main course salad. Check out Gaby’s Delicata Squash Salad over at What’s Gaby Cooking for a delicious recipe.
Use to top a grain salad like this Farro Salad with Roasted Beets.
Obviously, you can serve roasted squash as a side dish for pretty much any dinner. Recently, I’ve served it with Oven Baked Pork Chops and Buttermilk-Brined Roasted Chicken.
Try roasting the squash simply with salt and pepper, then toss in Garlic Scape Herb Butter.
I even like the leftover roasted delicata squash heated up in a pan to add a little more crisp served with eggs in the morning for breakfast.

Roasted Butternut Squash piled on a white serving plate with parsley garnish

More Easy Side Dishes:

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Roasted Delicata Squash Notes:

The mild flavor of delicata squash lends itself very well for other seasonings. You might also try seasoning with: chili powder, curry powder, a little coconut sugar or honey, cinnamon, or sage. The possibilities are pretty endless. I’ve also tried it with parmesan cheese and Trader Joe’s 21 Seasoning Salute. Delicious combo!
If you like roasted seeds, you can roast the delicata seeds just as you would pumpkin seeds.
I love Nordic Ware’s pure aluminum baking sheets. They conduct heat well, and clean up is easy.
Parchment paper makes clean up a breeze. If You Care's parchment is unbleached and compostable.

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More Squash Recipes to Love:

Hand with a spoon digging into Roasted Spaghetti Squash.

Oven Roasted Spaghetti Squash

Roasted Butternut Squash

Stuffed Acorn Squash

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