Delicata Squash Recipe with Maple & Rosemary « Running in a Skirt (2024)

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This Delicata Squash recipe is simply roasted to perfection and is so tasty! If you've been curious about cooking delicata squash, 4 Ingredient Maple Rosemary Delicata Squash has never been easier to prepare with no peeling and a rich, sweet, and creamy texture. You are going to love

Love winter squash? Also try my Roasted Acorn Squash, Oven Roasted Butternut Squash, and Baked Spaghetti Marinara.

Delicata Squash Recipe with Maple & Rosemary « Running in a Skirt (1)

Delicata Squash recipe

This Delicata Squash recipe is a bit magical. Roasting delicata squash is easy and simple and really lets the flavors of this gorgeous squash shine. These pretty bites of squash taste sweet, savory, and buttery all at the same time. I simply toss the magical slices of squash goodness in olive oil, rosemary, and a little maple syrup. You don't need much because the squash is already sweet, but I do love the flavor this combination gives it.

Cooking delicata squash has never been easier with this simple roasted delicata recipe that you can cook like most other roasted vegetables. This simple recipe is fabulous because it takes only around 20 minutes to prepare from start to finish and uses just four simple ingredients. If you picked up one of these fun little squash at the store and are wondering how to prepare delicata squash, this is your recipe!

The skin turns soft and the texture of the squash flesh and skin together is so lovely. The sweet and savory combination with the rosemary is what foodie dreams are made of.

What is Delicata Squash?

If you've never tried a Delicata Squash before, it's another type of winter squash, much like butternut squash, acorn squash, and spaghetti squash. It can be found in the grocery stores in the late summer and into fall. It's a pretty yellow squash with scalloped ridging around the sides.

It's a cool squash to try because of its small size the skin is actually edible and you don't need to peel it. It has a rich, sweet, and velvety flesh that roasts and caramelizes beautifully when you roast it in the oven. It's a lot easier to work with than some of the clunky winter squash that requires to peel it. It's known as the sweet potato squash, peanut squash or Bohemian squash.

If you don't see it at your store, ask your produce manager and they might be able to start getting some in for you. I seem to have more luck finding it at some of the higher-end, healthier grocery stores.

When you slice it, you get these pretty scalloped half-moons which are fun to eat and enjoy.

It's soft, buttery and so naturally sweet. It rocked my little world.Luckily cooking delicata is really simple and faster than many varieties of squash. My favorite way is my 4 Ingredient Maple Rosemary Delicata Squash recipe.

Delicata Squash Recipe with Maple & Rosemary « Running in a Skirt (2)

Why You'll Love this Maple Rosemary Delicata Squash Recipe...

  • This Maple Rosemary Delicata Squash recipe has only 4 ingredients and it takes 20 minutes to make.
  • It's an impressive-looking recipe but isn't hard to make at all.
  • It tastes so good with its savory and sweet flavors.
  • Delicata Squash is rich in nutrition benefits and has carotenoids and antioxidants. It's rich in fiber potassium, and vitamin C. It's very nutritious and delicious!
  • You don't have to peel the squash, like other winter squash recipes.
  • It's unexpected and fun. It's the best way to make a delicata squash if you were wondering how to prepare delicata squash.

Delicata Squash Recipe with Maple & Rosemary « Running in a Skirt (3)

Ingredients:

Here's an overview of what you'll need to make this Delicata Squash recipe , but keep scrolling for the full recipe amounts.

  • Delicata Squash: You'll need one delicta squash for this recipe. Follow my instructions below on how to cut it. Choose a delicata squash at the store that has yellow skin and some yellow and orange ridges. Try to avoid ones that are mostly green, as they are not ripe. The squash should be firm at the stem ends and should not feel soft.
  • Maple Syrup: A touch of your favorite maple syrup helps bring out the flavors in the delicata squash and helps in cooking the delicata squash, getting the rich caramelized color on it.
  • Rosemary: I use fresh rosemary for a rich flavor, but you can substitute dry. It's ½ tablespoon of fresh, or ½ teaspoon of dry, depending on what you have. You can also substitute fresh or dried thyme.
  • Olive Oil: A nice roasting olive oil brings out the color in this.
  • Salt and Pepper

How to Cut Delicata Squash:

  1. Now unlike butternut squash or spaghetti squash, the skin of a delicata squash is pretty soft. You can easily slip a sharp knife through it without the struggle and fear of losing fingers. No need to peel them either, the skin is entirely edible.
  2. Start with a sharp knife and cutting board. To cut it for this recipe you just slice off the two ends and then cut the delicata squash length-wise, as shown below.
  3. Next, you use a spoon to scoop out the seeds like a pumpkin and cut them into thick quarter-inch slices. The pretty scalloped half-moon slices are what you cook.
  4. Now you are ready to cook delicata squash.

Delicata Squash Recipe with Maple & Rosemary « Running in a Skirt (4)

Instructions:

This is an overview of the instructions to make this Delicata Squash recipe, but the full detailed printable recipe is below in the recipe card.

  1. Preheat oven to 425 degrees and spray a baking sheet with cooking spray. For easy cleanup, you can line it with foil or parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, toss the squash slices in olive oil, rosemary, maple syrup, salt, and pepper.
  3. Lay the delicata squash flat on the baking sheet in a single layer.
  4. Bake or roast for 10 minutes, pull out of the oven and flip.
  5. Finish roasting for another 5-10 minutes on the other side, until they are fork-tender and golden brown.

Delicata Squash Recipe with Maple & Rosemary « Running in a Skirt (5)

Variations

I love this Delicata Squash recipe as written, but here are some fun variations on cooking delicta squash.

  • Parmesan Garlic: Make it more savory by adding fresh garlic powder and parmesan cheese instead of the maple and rosemary.
  • Sweet: Make it sweeter by substituting the rosemary for cinnamon, which pairs nicely with the maple syrup. You can also add nutmeg.
  • Taco or Cajun: Make it taco or cajun spiced by adding Taco Seasoning, Cajun Seasoning, or Blackened seasoning. It's a fun way to mix up the flavors.
  • Herbs de Provence: Another flavor profile that goes well with it is Herbs de Provence or the more classic Italian Seasoning.

FAQ

Storage & Leftovers

Store any leftover Delicata Squash recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days.

Freezing

Although best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze this recipe after cooking and reheat it later. Store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to three months after cooking and cooling.

Do you eat the skin of a delicata squash?

Yes! You do eat the skin of a delicata squash after cooking it. It's thin enough when you cook it because tender and delicious to eat and enjoy. Unlike other winter squash, you do not need to peel a delicata squash.

What temperatures do you roast a delicata squash?

Wondering about cooking delicata squash? I like to roast mine at a hot, 425 degrees to get the best color, flavor, and texture on the roasted squash.

Is delicata similar to butternut squash?

Delicata squash is in the same family as butternut squash. They are both considered winter squash, but they are actually pretty different. Butternut squash is larger, harder to cut, and has a slightly sweeter and nuttier flavor. Its texture is denser when cooked. Delicata squash is smaller, easy to cut, is more tender, and creamy, and once cooked gets an interesting caramelized flavor that's rich, but sweet. Butternut squash is easier to find, while delicata squash can be harder to find, even in season.

Delicata Squash Recipe with Maple & Rosemary « Running in a Skirt (6)

Delicata Squash recipe is So Good!

This Delicata Squash recipe is so good and such a flavorful combination! It's super simple to make and takes the mystery out of this fun winter squash you found at the store. In fact, cooking delicata squash has never been easier with this 4 Ingredient Maple Rosemary Delicata Squash recipe. The little bites are kind of addictive.

Expand your squash horizon like I did, you'll be glad you did! If you are looking for new side dishes to enjoy this fall and winter, this is a great one to try.

Serve it With:

  • Kale Ceasar Salad
  • Fall Harvest Salad
  • Vegetarian Stuffing
  • Sheet Pan Frittata
  • Blackened Salmon
  • Parmesan Panko Salmon
4 Ingredient Maple Rosemary Delicata Squash (includes detailed how to cut instructions)Click to Tweet

More Winter Squash Recipes to Try:

  • Roasted Acorn Squash
  • Oven Roasted Butternut Squash
  • Baked Spaghetti Marinara
  • Mexican Stuffed Spaghetti Squash
  • Sauteed Butternut Squash and Kale
  • Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Butternut Squash
  • Vegan Stuffed Butternut Squash for Thanksgiving
  • Mushroom, Farro, and Cranberry Stuffed Acorn Squash
  • Baked Vegetarian Spaghetti Squash Casserole
  • Crock Pot Butternut Squash Soup

If you make this Delicata Squash recipe e, I’d love to hear what you think! Leave a comment and a star rating ★ below. Make sure to follow me on Instagram,Pinterest, andFacebooktoo!

Delicata Squash Recipe with Maple & Rosemary « Running in a Skirt (7)

Delicata Squash Recipe with Maple and Rosemary

Julie Wunder

This Delicata Squash recipe is simply roasted to perfection and is so tasty! If you've been curious about cooking delicata squash, 4 Ingredient Maple Rosemary Delicata Squash has never been easier to prepare with no peeling and a rich, sweet, and creamy texture.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 20 minutes mins

Course Dinner, Side Dish

Cuisine American

Servings 2 servings

Calories 122 kcal

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 425 degrees and spray a baking sheet with cooking spray. For easy cleanup, you can line it with foil or parchment paper.

  • In a large bowl, toss the squash slices in olive oil, rosemary, maple syrup, salt, and pepper.

  • Lay flat on the baking sheet in a single layer.

  • Roast for 10 minutes. Pull out and flip.

  • Finish for another 5-8 minutes or until tender. Exact cooking times will vary due to the size of your squash, so watch it carefully. It's done when it's fork tender and golden brown.

Notes

Cooking Notes

My delicata squash produced about 2 ½ cups of cut rings. If yours is much larger or smaller, adjust the proportions of the other ingredients and the cooking times.

Storage & Leftovers

Store any leftover Delicata Squash recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days.

Freezing

Although best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze this recipe after cooking and reheat it later. Store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to three months after cooking and cooling.

Nutrition

Calories: 122kcalCarbohydrates: 26gProtein: 2gFat: 2gSaturated Fat: 0.4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.3gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gSodium: 10mgPotassium: 819mgFiber: 3gSugar: 11gVitamin A: 3111IUVitamin C: 28mgCalcium: 76mgIron: 1mg

Keyword Cooking Delicata Squash, Delicata Squash, Delicata Squash recipe

Tried this recipe?Mention @Julie_Wunder or tag #RunninginaSkirt!

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Delicata Squash Recipe with Maple & Rosemary « Running in a Skirt (8)

Delicata Squash Recipe with Maple & Rosemary « Running in a Skirt (2024)

FAQs

How to tell if a delicata squash is bad? ›

You'll know delicata squash has gone bad if it has wrinkles or soft spots. Also, if the seeds look slimy or their color is off, you'll know it's spoiled. The seeds are normally a cream or white color. Typically, they'll be covered in the flesh of the squash.

Can you leave the skin on delicata squash? ›

Always: Acorn, Delicata, Honeynut

Wofford and our test kitchen editors will leave the skin on delicata, acorn, and honeynut squash to save time, add nutrients, and reduce food waste. These varieties have thin skins that soften readily when cooked. Next time you slice a delicata into rings ready to roast, don't peel it.

Why is delicata squash good for you? ›

Delicata squash also has a ton of potassium: One cup delivers a whopping 500mg of the mineral, which can help control your blood pressure. As with many varieties of squash, it's also full of vitamin C, which plays a role in the growth and repair of body proteins.

When should you not eat squash? ›

And if it starts to leak fluid, that's a sure sign that the squash is spoiled. Likewise, if the flesh and seeds of the fruit are mushy and slimy, that's a clear sign that it shouldn't be eaten. Color - the outer skin of the squash is a quick way to check for any sign of spoilage.

What are the side effects of delicata squash? ›

Risks and Side Effects

As with any food, taking note of any unusual reaction, such as itching or swelling, is important, but there are no known problems with the delicata squash. However, because of its fiber content, too much could cause flatulence.

Can you eat too much delicata squash? ›

"Squash contains a toxin known as Cucurbitacin E, which can give the squash a bitter taste. If too much of the toxin is consumed it can cause illness. It is rare, but if the squash has a bitter taste, stop eating it, and grab another one."

Why is my delicata squash bitter? ›

The higher the levels of cucubitacin, the more bitter the squash will taste. The most likely cause for a bitter taste in squash is due to an environmental stress of some sort, most likely a wide temperature flux or irregular irrigation. Either of these will create an excess of cucurbitacins to concentrate in the fruit.

Should delicata squash be refrigerated? ›

Storage tips: Winter Squash is best stored between 55-65 degrees, however, Delicata squash does not store quite as well as heartier varieties like Acorn and Butternut. Place in a cool dry room in your house (do not refrigerate) and it should last 3 months.

What is a fun fact about delicata squash? ›

The delicata squash is sometimes referred to as a sweet potato squash or a peanut squash. It's delicate flesh can be eaten- there is no need to peel the fruit. However, this squash does not store quite as well as heartier varieties like acorn and butternut.

Which squash is the healthiest to eat? ›

1. Butternut Squash. One of the most popular varieties of squash, it can be use in so many ways. It's one of the most rich in Vitamin A, boasting about 100% of the recommended daily value per cup, in the antioxidant form of beta-carotene.

Is it OK to eat the seeds of delicata squash? ›

Yes, you're supposed to eat the skin. You can eat the seeds, too.

Do you eat the skin on delicata squash? ›

Delicata squash skin

The delicata is actually named for its delicate, edible skin, so there is no need for peeling here. The rind of these cylindrical, striped vegetables is similar in texture to a summer squash like zucchini, and becomes perfectly tender when cooked.

Can you freeze raw delicata squash? ›

Peel and cut the squash into chunks of any size. Spread the pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet and place in the freezer. When completely frozen, transfer the squash to a freezer safe container with 1/2-inch headspace to allow for food expansion.

How to tell if squash has gone bad? ›

Keep your eye out for any brown spots or blemishes; these can indicate the start of spoiling. Any soft spots or slimy areas are also a sign that your squash has gone bad. Old squash tends to have soft flesh, leathery skin, and a hollow feel. And, of course, any spots of mold mean it's time to toss your squash.

How long does delicata squash stay good? ›

Directions: Storage tips: Winter Squash is best stored between 55-65 degrees, however, Delicata squash does not store quite as well as heartier varieties like Acorn and Butternut. Place in a cool dry room in your house (do not refrigerate) and it should last 3 months.

What are the symptoms of eating bad squash? ›

Symptoms of consuming volunteer squash

Spit out the first bite. A study published in Clinical Toxicology in 2018 published a study from France that found 353 cases of reported adverse effects reported from eating bitter squashes. Diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain were the most common symptoms.

What color should delicata squash be? ›

How to Select Delicata Squash. Choose one that's creamy yellow with green stripes and/or teetering toward orange. If the delicata squash is all green, it's not quite ripe yet. Make sure it's firm with no soft spots and heavy for its size.

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