Parmesan Delicata Squash

Finished roasted parmesan squash pieces on baking sheet with sprigs of rosemary.

Course: Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Prep Time: 5

Cook Time: 25

Total Time: 30

Servings: people

Calories: 92kcal

Author: Platings and Pairings

This easy recipe for Parmesan Delicata Squash roasts Italian-seasoned and parmesan-coated squash slices in the oven until they’re cheesy and tender. Enjoy it as a simple but addictive side dish with any fall or winter meal.

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Equipment

Ingredients

1 medium delicata squash about 1 ¼ pounds
2 cloves garlic grated or minced
2 Tablespoons olive oil
1/3 cup parmesan cheese finely grated***
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon lemon zest
Fresh parsley minced (to garnish)

Instructions

Preheat oven to 425°F.
Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
Slice the squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Slice the seeded halves into 1/4-inch thick slices and place them in a large bowl. Drizzle with the olive oil and toss well to coat.
In a small bowl combine the parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper and lemon zest.
Dip each delicata piece in the seasoning bowl, coating both sides with seasoning. As you coat each piece, place them on the prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle any remaining cheese blend over the tops of the pieces.
Bake until soft and golden brown on the edges, about 20-25 minutes, flipping after 10 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.

Notes

*** I normally avoid pre-grated parmesan cheese, but it works very well in this recipe since it is so finely grated.

Tips and tricks

Carefully use a sharp chef’s knife or serrated knife to slice the squash. The skin is slightly tough but will soften as it roasts in the oven.
Be generous with the cheesy, savory seasonings! Make sure each slice is well coated on both sides to help them taste irresistible.
The edges of the squash will brown faster than the center, so keep an eye on them towards the end of baking. If the edges are getting too dark before the middle is fully tender, lower the temperature slightly and continue baking.

Variations

If you love extra heat - Add a pinch of red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, or cayenne pepper to the cheesy seasoning mix.
Switch up the cheese - Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese both work as substitutes for the parmesan.
Vegan option - Make this recipe with vegan parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free twist.
Add a crunch factor - Consider garnishing the baked squash with toasted breadcrumbs, chopped toasted nuts (like walnuts, pecans, or pistachios), or crispy fried onions.

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