This simple method of how to cook Delicata Squash will make it easy for you to prepare and enjoy! Uncomplicated and super delicious- this will become your new favorite winter squash
. Delicata is my favorite squash for a couple reasons. First, it's easy to prepare (that's more my reason since he never prepares it). They're on the smaller side which means cutting them aren't as hard as some bigger varieties. Second, it is so delicious!! I never add anything to them except salt and they are so sweet and tasty. The skin is edible which is convenient. Technically the skin on a lot of squash is edible, but it's just not that good. The skin on this is perfect- it gets tender and is easily eaten.
I brought a whole tray of this squash to Thanksgiving last year with my in-laws and everyone loved it! None of them had ever heard of it, but they were amazed how delicious it was. I like how my sister compared it to fries because they are perfect to eat with your hands. Now, I'm not saying they're identical to fries, but they are a fun and healthy alternative!
Here is what they look like. They can vary slightly in size and color, but they're pretty small. Those nice little grooves on them make them super easy to cut.
Cut the top and bottom off, cut it in half the long way, then scoop the seeds out. If you're feeling particularly ambitious you can roast the seeds. They are delicious!
Here they are all cleaned out, laying on the parchment lined pan. You can also roast them like this and stuff them.
Cut into ½ inch pieces. They don't have to be perfect, but try to get them as even as possible so they cook at the same speed.
Lay the squash in a single layer on the tray and sprinkle with salt. Bake for 25 minutes, flip all the pieces over, and bake for another 15-20 minutes.
Here they are all roasted and delicious! Here is a quick overview:
- Taste: Sweet, creamy, mild flavor
- Other names: peanut squash, Bohemian squash, and sweet potato squash. I always see it called Delicata in stores though.
- Ease of preparation: very easy
I haven't seen them at big stores, but I can always find them at farmers markets and health food stores. They are worth searching for and they are usually very affordable! I really hope you find some and try them. You won't be disappointed!
Looking for more squash recipes? Here's a simple way to cook spaghetti squash that makes extra long noodles!!
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How To Cook Delicata Squash
Ingredients
- 2-3 delicata squash
- salt
Instructions
- Line a sheet tray with parchment paper and preheat the oven to 400°
- Cut the top and bottom off the squash, then cut into ½ inch slices.
- Lay down on the sheet tray and sprinkle with salt.
- Bake for 25 minutes, flip them all over and bake another 15-20 minutes.
LINDA says
Do you eat the skin???
Jessica DeMay says
Hi Linda- yes, the skin becomes tender and soft. Hope you enjoy them!
Schaunel Steinnagel says
This was delicious! Comparisons in my family included: French Fries; onion rings; salted soft pretzels! All gone now!
Jessica DeMay says
Awesome- I love those comparisons! Thanks for trying my recipe, Schaunel!
Sandi says
I'm so glad I found this. I have one of these squash coming in my fruit/vegetable box this week, and I had no idea how to cook it or even eat it. I'm super excited to try it.
Jessica DeMay says
Thanks, Sandi! You will love it- it is our favorite squash.Enjoy!
Taylor @ Food Faith Fitness says
I've had a few people who know about my kabocha squash obsession tell me that I need to try delicata! AND NOW I can because I know how to cook it! Pinning these great tips!
Jessica DeMay says
Thanks, Taylor!! Yes, you have to try it- I think you'll love it!!
Cathy says
So, you said you brought a whole tray to Thanksgiving. How did they travel? Did you reheat them when you got there, or are they ok at room temperature? My family typically doesn't like squash, so I don't fix it much. Thanks so much for sharing! We're only on day 3 of our first whole30, so I'm still searching for recipes. My friend told me today that she couldn't do it because she HAS to have ketchup. 30 minutes later my daughter sent me a link to your ketchup recipe. Perfect timing!
Jessica DeMay says
Hi Cathy! It travels great! I fully cooked them then put them in a 13x9 and covered it in tin foil. When I got there I put it in the oven just to warm back up. I think your family would like this squash- it's so delicious! I hope you try it! That's awesome- good luck on your Whole30!! I have quite a few recipes on my site and that ketchup is very popular! You'll love it! Here is a link to all my Whole30 recipes: http://www.jaysbakingmecrazy.com/tag/whole30/ and feel free to ask any questions along the way. Thanks for stopping by!!
Mary Ann | The Beach House Kitchen says
I have never tried Delicata squash Jessica, but they look and sound really tasty! I'm always up for trying something new and different. On my list! Thanks for sharing!
Jessica DeMay says
Thanks, Mary Ann! I think you'll love it! It's so delicious!
Betty says
I love stuffed delicate squash and made one last week. Stuffing made of chopped nuts, cranberries, egg, yoghurt, etc. Wonderful stuff!
Jessica DeMay says
That sounds delicious, Betty!