Roasted Delicata Squash with Sage and Parmesan Recipe
If you are searching for a side dish that beautifully captures the essence of fall flavors, look no further than this Roasted Delicata Squash with Sage and Parmesan Recipe. It’s a vibrant medley of tender delicata squash slices, fragrantly roasted with fresh sage and crowned with a nutty Parmesan finish. The balance of buttery richness, herbal brightness, and savory depth creates an irresistible treat that’s as cozy as a crisp autumn afternoon. Whether you’re cooking for family or sharing with friends, this recipe brings warmth and comfort to any meal with minimal fuss and maximum flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting your ingredients together for this dish is wonderfully simple. Each element plays a crucial role, whether it’s the delicate sweetness of the squash, the earthiness of sage, or the savory punch from Parmesan. These basics work harmoniously to create a flavorful and visually stunning dish.
- 2 medium delicata squash (about 2 pounds): The star of the dish, naturally sweet and tender when roasted with its tender, edible skin.
- 1/4 cup salted butter, melted: Adds lush richness and helps caramelize the squash for a golden finish.
- 2 teaspoons chopped fresh sage: Brings an aromatic, woodsy note that elevates the flavor profile beautifully.
- 2 teaspoons seasoned salt: A simple way to enhance the natural flavors with a balanced seasoning blend.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a touch of warmth and sharpness to cut through the richness.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Provides a savory, umami-packed crust that crisps up during roasting.
How to Make Roasted Delicata Squash with Sage and Parmesan Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by setting your oven to 425°F. This high temperature helps the squash roast quickly and caramelize beautifully, ensuring that every bite is tender on the inside and golden on the outside.
Step 2: Prepare the Squash
On a large cutting board, slice both delicata squashes in half lengthwise, then scoop out the seeds with a spoon. The beauty of delicata squash lies in its edible skin, so there’s no need to peel! Next, slice each half into 1-inch thick rounds. These slices create the perfect size to roast evenly and pick up that irresistible crisp edge.
Step 3: Season the Squash
Place the squash slices in a large bowl and drizzle the melted butter over them while still warm. Toss to coat every piece thoroughly so the butter can work its magic during roasting. Sprinkle the chopped fresh sage, seasoned salt, and black pepper evenly over the slices. Finally, add the Parmesan cheese and give everything one last gentle toss to combine. This seasoning mix is the heart of the flavor profile in this Roasted Delicata Squash with Sage and Parmesan Recipe.
Step 4: Roast to Perfection
Arrange the seasoned slices in a single layer on an unlined baking sheet. Avoid overlapping to allow maximum caramelization. Roast in the preheated oven for about 25 to 30 minutes, flipping the slices halfway through to promote even browning on both sides. You’ll know it’s done when the squash turns golden brown and tender to the fork.
How to Serve Roasted Delicata Squash with Sage and Parmesan Recipe
Garnishes
To give your dish an extra pop of color and texture, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or additional sage leaves right before serving. A light drizzle of good quality olive oil or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice can also add brightness that pairs wonderfully with the Parmesan’s savory bite.
Side Dishes
This roasted delicata squash pairs so well with hearty mains like roast chicken, pork tenderloin, or even a vegetarian grain bowl. Consider serving alongside creamy mashed potatoes or a bed of quinoa to add wholesome variety to your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests, layer the roasted squash on a serving platter with a sprinkle of toasted nuts like walnuts or pecans for crunch. Alternatively, toss the warm slices with garlic sautéed kale or arugula and serve as a warm salad for a stunning twist on the classic recipe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can keep leftover roasted delicata squash fresh by placing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’ll stay delicious for up to 3 days—ready to reheat and enjoy.
Freezing
If you’d like to preserve this dish longer, freeze the roasted squash in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen, it maintains good quality for up to 2 months but reheats best when thawed first to prevent sogginess.
Reheating
For the best texture, reheat your squash in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 10 minutes. This revives the crisp edges and warms the cheese through without turning the slices mushy like microwaving might.
FAQs
Can I use dried sage instead of fresh?
Yes, you can substitute dried sage, but use about one-third the amount since it’s more concentrated. Fresh sage adds a brighter, more vibrant flavor that really shines in this recipe.
Is it necessary to peel delicata squash?
Not at all! The skin of delicata squash is thin and tender, becoming soft and flavorful when roasted, which saves time and enhances the dish’s texture.
Can this recipe be made vegan?
Absolutely! Swap the butter for olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative, and use a vegan Parmesan substitute or nutritional yeast to keep that cheesy savory note intact.
What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?
If Parmesan isn’t available, a hard, salty cheese like Pecorino Romano works well to mimic the flavor. Alternatively, omit the cheese for a lighter, simpler taste.
How do I know when the squash is done roasting?
The squash is done when it turns a beautiful golden brown and becomes fork-tender without sticking to the pan. Flipping halfway ensures even cooking and caramelization.
Final Thoughts
This Roasted Delicata Squash with Sage and Parmesan Recipe is a celebration of fall’s best flavors, effortlessly delivered with simple ingredients and straightforward steps. Once you’ve roasted these lovely squash slices to golden perfection, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe time and time again. It’s a cozy, comforting dish that brings both warmth and elegance to your table, perfect for sharing with the people you love.
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Roasted Delicata Squash with Sage and Parmesan Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Roasted Delicata Squash is a simple and flavorful fall recipe that highlights the natural sweetness of delicata squash. Coated with melted butter, fresh sage, seasoned salt, black pepper, and Parmesan cheese, this dish is roasted to golden perfection for a warm, savory side that’s perfect for autumn meals.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 medium delicata squash (about 2 pounds)
- 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 Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to prepare it for roasting the squash evenly and to ensure a nice golden finish.
- Prepare Squash: Place each delicata squash on a large cutting board and carefully cut in half lengthwise. Using a spoon, scrape out and discard the seeds. Then slice each half crosswise into 1-inch thick slices and transfer the squash slices to a large mixing bowl.
- Season Squash: Pour the melted butter over the sliced squash, tossing gently to coat all pieces evenly. Sprinkle the chopped fresh sage, seasoned salt, and ground black pepper over the squash. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and toss again to distribute the seasoning and cheese uniformly.
- Roast: Arrange the seasoned squash slices in a single layer on an unlined baking sheet. Place the sheet in the preheated oven and roast for about 25 to 30 minutes, flipping the squash slices halfway through cooking to ensure they brown evenly on both sides.
- Serve: Once the delicata squash is golden brown and tender, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly. Serve warm or at room temperature as a delicious side dish perfect for fall and holiday meals.
Notes
- Do not peel delicata squash as its skin is tender and edible.
- Use fresh sage for the best aromatic flavor; dried sage can be substituted but use less.
- Seasoned salt adds a nice flavor boost, but you can adjust the amount to your taste or use regular salt.
- Make sure to flip the squash slices halfway through roasting to achieve an even golden crust.
- This dish can be prepared ahead and reheated gently in the oven.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
