Parmesan Crusted Roasted Delicata Squash

Autumn’s bounty shines brightest in this simple yet elegant recipe for Parmesan Crusted Roasted Delicata Squash. Imagine the sweet, nutty flavor of delicata squash perfectly complemented by the salty, sharp bite of Parmesan cheese, all enhanced by the earthy aroma of fresh sage. This dish is far more than just a side; it’s a celebration of fall flavors, a masterpiece of texture, and a surprisingly easy recipe to master. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this Parmesan Crusted Roasted Delicata Squash will become a fall favorite, guaranteed to impress your family and friends. The vibrant orange flesh, beautifully contrasted against the golden-brown Parmesan crust, makes it a feast for the eyes as well as the palate. Prepare to be enchanted by this delicious and visually stunning dish that epitomizes the best of autumnal cooking.

Why You’ll Love This Parmesan Crusted Roasted Delicata Squash Recipe

This Parmesan Crusted Roasted Delicata Squash recipe is a game-changer for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly versatile. It seamlessly transitions from a simple weeknight side dish to a stunning centerpiece for a holiday gathering. The beautiful presentation makes it perfect for potlucks or Thanksgiving feasts. Secondly, the flavor profile is simply divine. The delicate sweetness of the delicata squash perfectly balances the sharp saltiness of the Parmesan, creating a flavor explosion in your mouth. The optional addition of fresh sage further enhances the earthy notes, adding another layer of complexity. Thirdly, the recipe is incredibly easy to follow. With minimal prep time and simple steps, even a beginner cook can create a restaurant-quality dish. Fourthly, it’s exceptionally healthy. Delicata squash is packed with vitamins and nutrients, offering a guilt-free indulgence that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Finally, the texture is a delightful contrast – the creamy, soft interior of the squash perfectly complements the crisp, golden-brown Parmesan crust, creating a delightful sensory experience. It’s a recipe that truly satisfies on all levels – flavor, texture, appearance, and ease of preparation. This Parmesan Crusted Roasted Delicata Squash is the epitome of delicious and effortless fall cooking.

Why You Should Try This Parmesan Crusted Roasted Delicata Squash Recipe

Beyond its deliciousness and ease, this Parmesan Crusted Roasted Delicata Squash offers numerous benefits. It’s a fantastic way to introduce more vegetables into your diet, particularly during the fall season when delicata squash is at its peak. The recipe is naturally gluten-free and easily adaptable to other dietary needs (we’ll explore variations later). It’s a wonderful recipe to make ahead of time; the roasted squash can be prepared several hours in advance, making it ideal for busy weeknights or large gatherings. The vibrant color makes it a stunning addition to any dinner table, adding a touch of elegance to even the simplest meal. Furthermore, this recipe is a great way to use seasonal ingredients, reducing your environmental impact by supporting local farmers. Its adaptability also makes it a fantastic choice for various culinary occasions – from a casual dinner with family to a more formal dinner party with friends. Learning to prepare this Parmesan Crusted Roasted Delicata Squash is an investment in your culinary skills and a guarantee of a delicious, healthy, and visually appealing meal. The rave reviews it invariably receives from guests are a testament to its remarkable ability to please every palate.

Ingredients and Necessary Utensils for Parmesan Crusted Roasted Delicata Squash

This section details the ingredients and tools required to achieve the perfect Parmesan Crusted Roasted Delicata Squash. Precise measurements are crucial for optimal results.

Ingredients: A Detailed Look

• 1 medium delicata squash (about 1 pound): Choose a squash that is firm to the touch, free from bruises, and has a deep orange color. The size is approximate; adjust cooking time accordingly if using a larger or smaller squash. Secondary Keywords: Delicata Squash, Winter Squash, Squash Recipe
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Use a high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor. Secondary Keywords: Olive Oil, Cooking Oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Use kosher salt or sea salt for the most accurate measurement. Secondary Keywords: Salt, Seasoning
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground black pepper is preferred for a more intense flavor. Secondary Keywords: Black Pepper, Spices
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best taste and texture. Pre-grated cheese often contains cellulose, which can affect the browning and crispiness of the crust. Secondary Keywords: Parmesan Cheese, Grated Cheese, Hard Cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage (optional): Fresh sage adds an earthy, aromatic complexity to the dish. If fresh sage isn’t available, you can substitute 1 teaspoon of dried sage. Secondary Keywords: Sage, Herbs, Fresh Herbs

Utensils: Tools for Success

• Chef’s knife: A sharp chef’s knife is essential for easily halving and seeding the delicata squash. Secondary Keywords: Kitchen Knife, Chef Knife
• Large spoon or melon baller: To easily remove the seeds and stringy pulp from the delicata squash. Secondary Keywords: Spoon, Melon Baller
• Baking sheet: A large rimmed baking sheet will prevent spills and ensure even roasting. Secondary Keywords: Baking Sheet, Baking Tray
• Pastry brush: To evenly distribute the olive oil on the squash halves. Secondary Keywords: Pastry Brush, Silicone Brush
• Grater: For grating the Parmesan cheese. A Microplane grater is ideal for fine grating. Secondary Keywords: Grater, Microplane Grater
• Measuring spoons and cups: For accurate measurement of ingredients. Secondary Keywords: Measuring Spoons, Measuring Cups
• Fork: To check for doneness. Secondary Keywords: Fork, Kitchen Utensils

Detailed Recipe Steps for Parmesan Crusted Roasted Delicata Squash

Follow these detailed steps to create your delicious Parmesan Crusted Roasted Delicata Squash. Remember, precision and attention to detail contribute to the perfect outcome.

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C): This ensures the squash roasts evenly and the Parmesan cheese achieves the desired golden-brown crispiness. Important: Preheat your oven completely before placing the squash inside.
2. Halve the delicata squash lengthwise and scoop out the seeds and stringy pulp: Cut the squash in half using a sharp chef’s knife. Use a large spoon or melon baller to thoroughly remove the seeds and stringy pulp from the center. Tip: A sharp knife prevents uneven cuts and ensures a cleaner separation of the flesh from the seeds.
3. Lightly brush the cut sides of the squash with olive oil: Use a pastry brush to apply a thin, even layer of olive oil to the cut surfaces of both squash halves. This helps the Parmesan cheese adhere and ensures even browning. Tip: Don’t overdo the oil; a light coating is sufficient.
4. Sprinkle the cut sides of the squash with salt and pepper: Generously season the oiled squash halves with salt and pepper. Tip: Seasoning the squash before adding the Parmesan helps the flavors meld better during roasting.
5. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the oiled and seasoned squash halves: Distribute the Parmesan cheese evenly over the seasoned squash. Tip: Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture; pre-grated cheese can be drier and less flavorful.
6. If using, sprinkle the chopped sage over the Parmesan: If you’re adding fresh sage, sprinkle it evenly over the Parmesan cheese. Tip: The sage complements the squash and Parmesan beautifully, but is entirely optional.
7. Place the squash halves, cut-side down, on a baking sheet: Arrange the squash halves on a baking sheet, cut-side down. This ensures even roasting and prevents the Parmesan crust from burning. Important: Ensure enough space between squash halves for proper airflow.
8. Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until the squash is tender and the Parmesan cheese is golden brown and slightly crispy: The cooking time depends on the size of your squash. Check for doneness by inserting a fork into the thickest part of the squash. It should pierce easily. Tip: Keep an eye on the Parmesan cheese; it can burn quickly towards the end of the cooking time. If it starts browning too quickly, you can loosely tent the baking sheet with foil.
9. Let the roasted squash cool slightly before serving: Allow the roasted squash to cool slightly before serving. This allows the Parmesan crust to set and prevents it from being too crumbly. Tip: Serving slightly warm enhances the flavors.

Tips and Variations for Parmesan Crusted Roasted Delicata Squash

Experiment with different flavors and techniques to personalize your Parmesan Crusted Roasted Delicata Squash.

• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the salt and pepper mixture for a touch of heat.
• Herby delight: Experiment with other herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano instead of sage.
• Nutty twist: Sprinkle some toasted chopped pecans or walnuts over the Parmesan for added crunch and flavor.
• Maple glaze: Drizzle a maple syrup glaze over the roasted squash just before serving for a touch of sweetness.
• Vegan adaptation: Replace the Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast for a vegan version. Nutritional yeast provides a cheesy, nutty flavor.
• Avoid over-roasting: Keep a close eye on the squash towards the end of the cooking time to prevent the Parmesan from burning.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Ensure enough space between the squash halves on the baking sheet for even roasting and browning.

Nutritional Values and Benefits of Parmesan Crusted Roasted Delicata Squash

(Note: Nutritional information is approximate and can vary depending on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes. This information is for a single serving of one half of a medium delicata squash.)

This dish is a nutritional powerhouse. Delicata squash is an excellent source of Vitamin A, Vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. These nutrients contribute to overall health and well-being. Vitamin A supports eye health and immune function, Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant, potassium is crucial for maintaining healthy blood pressure, and fiber aids in digestion. Parmesan cheese provides calcium, a vital mineral for strong bones and teeth. The olive oil contributes healthy monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health. The optional sage adds antioxidants and other beneficial compounds.

Approximate Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: Around 250-300
• Protein: Around 8-10 grams
• Fat: Around 15-20 grams
• Carbohydrates: Around 25-30 grams

FAQs

Conclusion

This Parmesan Crusted Roasted Delicata Squash recipe is a testament to the beauty of simple, seasonal cooking. Its ease of preparation, delightful flavors, and stunning presentation make it a perfect addition to any fall menu. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, this dish is sure to impress. We encourage you to try this recipe and share your culinary creations with us in the comments section below. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family on social media! For more delicious fall recipes, check out our blog at See More Recipes. Happy cooking!

Parmesan Crusted Roasted Delicata Squash with Sage

This simple recipe delivers a delicious and visually appealing side dish. Sweet delicata squash is roasted until tender, then topped with a crispy parmesan crust and fragrant sage.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Course Side Dish, Vegetarian

Cuisine American, Italian

Servings 4 servings

Calories 380 kcal

Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Chef's Knife
• Measuring spoons
• Measuring cups

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 medium (about 1 pound) Delicata Squash Halved lengthwise and seeded
• 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
• 1/2 teaspoon Salt
• 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper
• 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Grated
• 2 tablespoons Fresh Sage Chopped (optional)
• 1 tablespoon Maple Syrup Optional, for added sweetness

Instructions

 

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Halve the delicata squash lengthwise and use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and stringy pulp.
• Brush the cut sides of the squash with olive oil.
• Season the cut sides with salt and pepper. Drizzle with maple syrup if using.
• Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the oiled and seasoned squash halves. If using, sprinkle the chopped sage over the Parmesan.
• Place the squash halves, cut-side down, on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until the squash is tender and the Parmesan cheese is golden brown and slightly crispy.
• Let the roasted squash cool slightly before serving.

Notes

For extra flavor, try adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the Parmesan cheese before roasting. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Keyword easy side dish, fall recipe, holiday side, parmesan crusted, roasted delicata squash, vegetarian