If you are looking for a dish that perfectly balances sweet, savory, and nutty flavors, the Roasted Delicata Squash with Sage and Parmesan Recipe is an absolute must-try. This dish brings out the natural creaminess and delicate texture of delicata squash, enhanced by fragrant fresh sage and the salty richness of Parmesan cheese. It’s a simple yet elegant fall favorite that feels both comforting and a little fancy, perfect for cozy dinners or special occasions alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward but each one plays a crucial role. From the tender delicata squash to the fresh sage and aged Parmesan, everything combines beautifully to create layers of flavor, texture, and color.
- Delicata squash: About two medium-sized squashes provide the perfect balance of sweetness and texture.
- Salted butter, melted: Adds a lush, rich coating that helps the squash caramelize beautifully while enhancing flavor.
- Fresh sage, chopped: Imparts a woodsy, aromatic touch that complements the squash’s natural sweetness.
- Seasoned salt: Brings a savory boost and layer of seasoning that ties the dish together.
- Ground black pepper: Adds a subtle bite and warmth to keep the flavors balanced.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Offers a salty, umami-packed finish that crisps up delightfully when roasted.
How to Make Roasted Delicata Squash with Sage and Parmesan Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Squash
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F, which is the perfect temperature to get that gorgeous golden roast on the squash. While the oven warms up, halve your delicata squash lengthwise and scoop out the seeds with a spoon—this is a quick and satisfying step! Then slice the squash into roughly 1-inch rounds; these thick slices will become tender on the inside while crisping up just right on the outside.
Step 2: Coat with Butter and Seasonings
Place your squash slices in a large bowl, and pour over the melted salted butter to give them a lush, glossy blanket. Toss the slices gently so each piece gets coated evenly. Then sprinkle chopped fresh sage, seasoned salt, and ground black pepper over the squash. Don’t rush this step; distributing these keeps every bite flavorful. Finally, add the grated Parmesan cheese and give everything one last toss to mix.
Step 3: Roast to Perfection
Spread the seasoned squash slices out on an unlined baking sheet in a single layer, making sure there’s space between each slice so they roast rather than steam. Pop them into the oven and roast for about 25 to 30 minutes. Halfway through, flip each slice carefully so both sides get that irresistible golden-brown color and crispy edge. When done, the squash should be tender inside with a slight caramelized crunch on the outside.
Step 4: Serving Warm or Room Temperature
Once roasted, you can serve this dish right away while it’s warm, letting the flavorful aroma of sage and Parmesan fill your kitchen. It also tastes fantastic at room temperature, making it a versatile side that’s perfect for preparing ahead of time or packing for lunch.
How to Serve Roasted Delicata Squash with Sage and Parmesan Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped sage or a little extra grated Parmesan right before serving can brighten up the dish even more. For a pop of color and texture, some toasted pine nuts or a drizzle of honey can elevate this simple delight to restaurant-quality level.
Side Dishes
This roasted delicata squash pairs beautifully with roasted chicken, pork chops, or even a hearty grain bowl. If you’re aiming for a vegetarian meal, serve it alongside a creamy risotto or tossed salad to balance the rich flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Imagine arranging these golden slices in a rustic wooden bowl sprinkled with microgreens or layering them on crostini with a smear of goat cheese for a party appetizer. The Roasted Delicata Squash with Sage and Parmesan Recipe is so versatile that it lends itself to endless creative presentations.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep their flavor well for up to 3 days, making a quick and tasty addition to weekday meals.
Freezing
While roasting fresh is best, you can freeze cooked delicata squash slices. Lay them flat on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. This prevents clumping and preserves their texture until you’re ready to enjoy.
Reheating
To reheat, it’s best to use an oven or toaster oven to maintain the squash’s crisp edges—just pop them in at 350°F for 10 to 15 minutes. Microwaving is an option, but it might make the slices softer than you’d like.
FAQs
Can I use dried sage instead of fresh?
You can, but fresh sage really makes a difference in this recipe. If you only have dried, use about one-third the amount and add it earlier in the cooking process so it blossoms in flavor.
Is it necessary to peel delicata squash?
No peeling required! The skin of delicata squash is thin, tender, and edible, which saves you time and adds delightful texture to the dish.
Can this recipe be made vegan?
Absolutely. Substitute the butter with olive oil or vegan butter and omit or replace Parmesan with a vegan cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for that chewy, savory flavor.
How do I know when the squash is done roasting?
The slices should be golden brown with slightly crispy edges, and tender when pierced with a fork. Cooking times can vary slightly based on your oven, so keep an eye on them around the 25-minute mark.
Can I add other herbs or spices?
Feel free to experiment! Rosemary, thyme, or even a pinch of smoked paprika can add exciting variations to this classic Roasted Delicata Squash with Sage and Parmesan Recipe.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, once you try this Roasted Delicata Squash with Sage and Parmesan Recipe, it will quickly become a go-to favorite for cozy nights and festive gatherings alike. It’s simple enough to prepare any day of the week, yet elegant enough to impress guests. So get your squash ready and enjoy every delicious bite of this fall-inspired delight!
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Roasted Delicata Squash with Sage and Parmesan Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Roasted Delicata Squash is a simple and flavorful fall side dish featuring tender, golden slices of delicata squash coated in melted butter, fresh sage, seasoned salt, black pepper, and Parmesan cheese. This recipe captures the essence of autumn with its savory and slightly nutty flavors, perfect for a cozy family dinner or holiday gathering.
Ingredients
Squash
- 2 medium delicata squash (about 2 pounds)
Seasoning & Topping
- 1/4 cup salted butter, melted
- 2 teaspoons chopped fresh sage
- 2 teaspoons seasoned salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure it reaches the ideal temperature for roasting the delicata squash slices to a perfect golden brown.
- Prepare the Squash: On a large cutting board, carefully cut each delicata squash in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to scoop out and discard all the seeds. Then slice each half crosswise into 1-inch thick slices and place these slices into a large mixing bowl.
- Season the Squash: Pour the melted salted butter over the squash slices in the bowl. Add the chopped fresh sage, seasoned salt, ground black pepper, and grated Parmesan cheese. Toss gently but thoroughly to evenly coat every slice with the butter, herbs, seasoning, and cheese.
- Arrange for Roasting: Spread the seasoned squash slices in a single layer on an unlined baking sheet. Make sure not to overlap the slices to allow even roasting and caramelization on all sides.
- Roast the Squash: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the squash slices for about 25 to 30 minutes. Halfway through the roasting time, flip the slices to promote even browning. Roast until the squash is tender and beautifully golden brown.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove the tray from the oven and serve the delicata squash warm or allow it to come to room temperature. This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of fall meals and is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven.
Notes
- Delicata squash has a thin, edible skin, so there’s no need to peel it before roasting.
- For an extra touch of flavor, you can add a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of chili flakes before roasting.
- Use fresh sage for the best aroma and taste; dried sage can be substituted but reduce amount by half.
- Ensure the squash slices are spread out and not crowded on the baking sheet to allow proper roasting and caramelization.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheated before serving.
