Also known as sweet potato squash, or peanut squash, delicata is a winter vegetable with a mild and creamy taste. It’s known for its silky, sweet flesh which turns beautifully caramelized when cooked. Aside from the taste, and impressive nutritional profile, the big draw for cooks is delicata’s versatility. You could eat this squash a million different ways and never get bored! Don’t believe me? Check out this list of 20 creative recipes which turn the humble delicata into irresistible sides, mains, snacks, and even dessert. I’m dying to try the delicata brownies! Right after I gorge on delicata fries, delicata tacos, and cheesy delicata casserole. Work your way through this mouthwatering list and I guarantee you, too, will be hooked on this scrumptious squash.
How To Cook Delicata Squash – Roasted, Stuffed, and More!
1. Sweet & Spicy Delicata Squash with Apples & Onions
If you like to eat seasonally, this is a great fall recipe to try when the days get chilly. There’s a lot going on in this deceptively simple side- which is also Paleo, gluten-free, and dairy-free. Tart apples, creamy squash, and tangy onion are tossed in a spicy seasoning before being roasted to crispy perfection. The heady blend of pumpkin pie spice, chili powder, and cayenne will make your kitchen smell amazing and your belly very happy.
2. Roasted Delicata Squash, Pomegranate and Arugula Salad
With its bright sprinkling of pomegranate seeds, this hearty salad is a great festive dish for the holidays. It’s light enough to work as a side, but could also be bulked out with extra protein and served for an elegant lunch or brunch. However you have it, you’ll love the combo of tender squash, tangy feta, and juicy pomegranate.
3. Wild Rice & Lentil Stuffed Delicata Squash with Cranberries & Pecans
This recipe briefly made me consider going vegan. Then I remembered that I like steak too much. But it’s definitely in my rotation for Meatless Mondays. Soft squash piled high with chewy grains, sweet cranberries, and crunchy pecans – this is a dish to celebrate. With so much texture and taste, this feast for the senses will get everyone at the table clamoring for more.
4. Delicata Squash and Tomato Gratin
Melty, gooey, and warming, this satisfying casserole is a must-try, especially if you’re feeding a hungry crowd! It’s made with chunks of soft squash nestled in a rich tomato sauce and topped with heapings of gruyere cheese. This is a hearty make-ahead meal that hits the spot. On a crisp night, there’s nothing like the warm glow of yummy food.
5. Cheesy Delicata Squash and Kale Casserole
If you love lasagna but your body doesn’t love pasta, this recipe is the answer to your prayers. Like lasagna, it’s a cheesy layered casserole. Unlike lasagna, it’s grain-free and chock full of healthy vegetables. Thinly sliced kale and delicata, creamy ricotta, and plenty of melted mozzarella make this a rich and delicious dish. It’s suitable for vegetarians, low-carbers, and anyone who loves good comfort food.
6. Avocado Kale Caesar Salad with Delicata Squash
Caesar salad isn’t just for summer! You can enjoy the classic side all year round with this gorgeous fall-themed recipe. This vegan version is made with a heart-healthy avocado and hemp seed dressing. Drizzled over roasted delicata squash, leafy kale, and beets, it’s the perfect way to finish off this feast of flavor.
7. Delicata Squash Tacos with Quick Pickled Onions
I can’t get enough of these incredible vegetarian tacos. Slices of roasted squash are piled onto a warm tortilla and topped with red onion, feta cheese, and fresh cilantro. Serve this fun meal with all the usual taco trimmings – sour cream, lime wedges, hot sauce, and extra cheese. Lots of extra cheese.
8. Arugula Delicata Squash Pasta
Don’t be fooled by the pasta, as this recipe is more of a salad dish. It’s a beautiful bowl of peppery arugula, roasted squash, sweet potato, corn, and pasta tubes. I love to serve this as a holiday side. The greens provide a nice balance to the heavier dishes while pasta and squash add depth and flavor.
9. Coconut Delicata Squash Soup
This is a savory-sweet soup that’s so creamy and thick, you’ll want to lick the bowl clean. It does take a bit of time because you’ll roast the squash first. But it’s so worth that extra effort. Roasted squash has a flavor all its own and perfectly complements the subtle tropical sweetness of the coconut.
10. Roasted Delicata, Apple, and Onion Tian
Originating from Provence, tian is a casserole dish usually involving a lot of yummy roasted vegetables. This version would be perfect for Thanksgiving, especially if your holiday menu needs some inspiration. It’s not uncommon to get a little tired of sweet potato this time of year, so freshen up your feast with this delightful side. It’s a hearty, sweet, and savory mix of apples, red onion, and delicata. It’s all flavored with a touch of cinnamon, fresh herbs, and a drizzle of maple syrup.
11. Quinoa Bowl with Roasted Delicata Squash, Avocado and Cucumber
I love comfort food that you can throw together in a single bowl, so it’s no surprise that this quinoa salad is a firm favorite. Nutritious and filling, it’s a gorgeous mix of fluffy quinoa, roasted squash chunks, creamy avocado, and fresh cucumber. The creamy almond dressing is the perfect finishing touch, giving everything glorious nutty notes.
12. Delicata Squash Pizza
If you’re trying to eat more plants but struggling to give up your favorite foods, check out this veggie pizza. My family actually prefers it to takeout (which is nothing short of a miracle). Pizza night will never be the same after you’ve tasted this cheesy flatbread!
13. Brown Sugar Delicata Squash
Quick and easy, this sweet side is an amazing take on the regular sweet potato Thanksgiving dish. Delicata squash is roasted with brown sugar, maple syrup, and cinnamon. It’s sweet, savory, and lightly spiced.
14. Parmesan Crusted Delicata Squash
Squash wedges coated with a cheesy crumb might just be the best side known to humankind. Perhaps I’m exaggerating, but you’ll go all hyperbolic over these fries when you try them too. Sprinkled with parmesan and fresh herbs, they’re roasted slices of yummy crispy heaven.
15. Delicata Squash Fries
The next time carb cravings strike, get out your squash. I won’t pretend that these salty, crispy, vegetable fries taste like the potato kind. They don’t. They taste even better. Frying delicata strips unlocks all their caramelized sweetness to give you a snack that’s so addictive you won’t be able to stop eating it. And that’s okay because these guys are healthy! That means you have permission to sprinkle them with sea salt, dip them into sriracha sauce, and go nuts.
16. Delicata Squash Risotto
Silky, velvety risotto is a guaranteed hit at dinner parties. It’s a sophisticated comfort food that always impresses. So next time you’re hosting, try this recipe. It’s a dreamy mix of earthy spices, sweet squash, and beautifully tender rice. It’s all simmered in a rich, white wine sauce.
17. Delicata Squash and Apple Galette
Delicata’s creamy texture and sweet taste make it a natural fit for dessert recipes. It shines in this irresistible galette which pairs tart apple with the sweet squash. Wrapped in flaky, buttery pastry, this is a dessert that makes an impression. Serve it warm from the oven with a generous dollop of ice cream if you’re craving something really indulgent.
18. Delicata Squash Stuffed with Spinach and Beans
This vegetarian recipe is a hearty dish, made with clean, simple ingredients. Delicata boats are scooped out and filled with cooked spinach, cannellini beans, garlic, and onion. As it bakes, the squash softens and the crunchy breadcrumb and cheese topping turns wonderfully golden brown. If you’re feeding carnivores, crumble in some sausage for delicious meaty protein.
19. Maple Roasted Delicata Squash with Burrata & Pomegranate Seeds
Tender squash, tart pomegranates, tangy burrata, and just a hint of spice – this dish has a bit of everything. Colorful, appetizing, and crazy good, this is a fun and festive side dish for holiday parties and family gatherings.
20. Delicata Squash Brownies
If you’re the kind of sneaky parent who hides vegetables in their kids’ treats, this recipe is a game-changer. Like magic, it turns winter squash into moist, fudgy brownies. And little chocoholics need never know! Click on a star to rate it!
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