Roasted Delicata Squash with Goat Cheese and Honey
Deeply roasted Delicata Squash slices are nestled together in a bed of creamy goat cheese and then topped with pomegranate arils and a drizzle of honey.
Delicata squash always seems to sneak under the radar in the Fall as all of the big, bold winter squashes dominate their presence. Often, it is the squash at the bottom of the barrel at the farmer’s market. I say this because I used to leave them there unapologetically.
This year, though, I sought a winter squash that slices through a knife so smoothly there is no excuse not to make it; Delicata squash for the win. While the Delicata squash is the star ingredient, this is one dish that needs supporting flavors to make the squash shine. The bed of goat cheese plays an essential role as it guarantees a generous scoop of goat cheese in every bite, while the pomegranate arils bring a much-needed tangy crunch. Don’t mess with it.
The sweetness of the roasted Delicata squash and honey drizzle are broken up by the saltiness of the goat cheese and the tang of the pomegranate arils. So much so, this dish screams savory. I eventually ditched the fork entirely and swirled the honey-drizzled Delicata squash pieces into the goat cheese while ensuring a pomegranate aril in every bite. Messy and sticky fingers aside, I encourage you to do the same. It’s worth it.
How to make Roasted Delicata Squash with Goat Cheese and Honey
- Slice the squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the strings and seeds. Cut the squash into half moons.
- Place the squash on the prepared baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil and Kosher salt. Toss to coat.
- Arrange the slices flat on the baking sheet and roast until deeply browned on both sides.
- Smear the goat cheese on a plate. Arrange squash on goat cheese. Sprinkle with pomegranate arils and drizzle with honey.
Possible Substitutions
POMEGRANATE ARILS. If you aren’t able to find pomegranate arils and don’t want to seed a pomegranate, toasted pumpkin seeds or pistachios work great.
GOAT CHEESE. Greek yogurt provides the creaminess and tang similar to goat cheese and, if using, the flavors will be slightly different (though delicious).
Roasted Delicata Squash with Goat Cheese and Honey: Frequently Asked Questions
Delicata squash is mildly sweet compared to other winter squash varieties and has a very creamy texture, similar to a roasted Yukon gold potato. If you think you don’t like winter squash, try Delicata!
Yes! The skin is very thin (you won’t even notice it!) and there is no need for peeling here.
Sure can. The roasted squash can be made several hours ahead of time, wrapped loosely in foil, and stored at room temperature. When ready to eat, reheat the squash in a 350°F oven and serve with goat cheese, pomegranate arils, and honey.
MORE FALL-INSPIRED RECIPES TO TRY
- Red Kuri Squash with Brown Butter, Pistachios, and Lime
- Double Apple Crisp for Two
- Small Batch Cornbread Muffins with Hot Honey Butter
Roasted Delicata Squash with Goat Cheese and Honey
Deeply roasted Delicata Squash slices are nestled together in a bed of creamy goat cheese and then topped with pomegranate arils and a drizzle of honey.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: main dish, side dish
- Method: Roast
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 medium delicata squash
- 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
- Kosher salt
- 5 ounces goat cheese
- 3 tablespoons pomegranate arils
- Honey, for drizzling
Instructions
- Prepare the squash. Preheat the oven to 425°F. Cut the Delicata squash in half and scoop out the seeds and pulp with a spoon. Discard the seeds and pulp. Place 1/2 of the squash cut side down on a cutting board, and slice the squash into 1-inch slices. You should have about 8 slices.
- Roast the squash. Arrange the slices flat on a baking sheet. Toss with olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Roast until underside is deeply browned, about 20 minutes. Turn the slices over to roast until the other side is deeply browned and the squash wedges are fork-tender, about 10 minutes.
- To serve. Spread the goat cheese onto the bottom of a medium serving platter or plate. Arrange the squash nestled to each other on the goat cheese and sprinkle with pomegranate arils and additional salt. Drizzle with honey and serve immediately.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 recipe
- Calories: 399 calories
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 301mg
- Fat: 25.4g
- Saturated Fat: 11.8g
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Fiber: 3.1g
- Protein: 15.8g
- Cholesterol: 33mg
Keywords: Roasted Delicata Squash with Goat Cheese and Pomegranate