Prepare to transform the humble delicata squash into a culinary masterpiece that will make your taste buds dance with joy! This roasted delicata squash with honey butter recipe is not just another side dish—it's a golden, caramelized revelation that turns an ordinary vegetable into a show-stopping sensation. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you'll create a restaurant-worthy dish that will have everyone at your table begging for seconds.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 medium delicata squash
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons honey
- Salt to taste
- Fresh thyme for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
- Wash the delicata squash thoroughly under cool running water. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice off both ends of the squash, then cut it in half lengthwise.
- Using a spoon, scoop out the seeds and stringy pulp from the center of each squash half. Discard the seeds or save them for roasting separately.
- Slice the squash halves crosswise into half-moon shapes, approximately 1/2 inch thick, ensuring uniform thickness for even roasting.
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Once melted, remove from heat and whisk in the honey until fully combined, creating a smooth honey butter mixture.
- Arrange the squash slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not overlapping to promote even roasting.
- Drizzle the honey butter mixture evenly over the squash slices, using a pastry brush to ensure complete coverage. Sprinkle salt over the squash to enhance flavor.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, turning the slices halfway through cooking time to ensure golden-brown caramelization on both sides.
- Remove from oven when squash edges are crispy and golden, and the flesh is tender when pierced with a fork.
- Transfer roasted squash to a serving platter and garnish with fresh thyme leaves. Serve immediately while warm.
Tips
- Choose squash that feels firm and has minimal blemishes for the best roasting results.
- Use a sharp knife and a steady hand when slicing to ensure uniform thickness for even cooking.
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet—give each squash slice room to caramelize properly.
- For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of smoked paprika or cinnamon to the honey butter mixture.
- If you want crispier edges, use a high-heat roasting technique and consider broiling for the last 1-2 minutes.
- Fresh thyme is recommended, but dried herbs can work in a pinch.
- Serve immediately after roasting to enjoy the squash at its crispy, tender peak.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 160kcal
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 25mg
