Roasted delicata squash has tender edible skin and browned edges, so there is no peeling step. Cut even half-moons, leave room on the pan and finish with lime. Original Dust adds a smoky seasoning to the naturally sweet squash.
2 medium delicata squash, about 1 1/2 lb (680 g) total
1 1/2 tbsp olive oil
2 tsp Original Desert Dust
1 lime, cut into wedges
Directions
Prepare the squash. Heat the oven to 425°F. Wash and dry the squash, trim the ends and halve lengthwise. Scoop out the seeds. Cut into 1/2-inch-thick half-moons, leaving the skin on.
Oil and dust. Toss the pieces with olive oil, then Original Dust, until lightly coated. Spread on a large rimmed sheet pan in one layer, with space between pieces. Use two pans if necessary.
Roast the first side. Roast for 15 minutes without moving the squash so the underside has a chance to brown.
Turn and finish. Turn the pieces and roast for another 10–20 minutes, until the flesh and skin are tender and the edges are browned. If the seasoning darkens too quickly, reduce the oven to 400°F and continue checking.
Finish with lime. Squeeze a little lime over the warm squash and taste before adding any more seasoning. Serve as four side portions, with the remaining wedges alongside.
The Dust In This Recipe
The Original Desert Dust
$12.99
Make it with Original Desert Dust. Taste before adding extra salt.
✦The Date Is the DifferenceOrganic Coachella Valley dates bring sweetness, body and depth.
✦Smoky & EarthyA balanced all-purpose blend made for everyday cooking.
No. Wash it well and leave the skin on; it becomes tender when roasted. Remove any damaged spots before slicing.
HOW THICK SHOULD THE SLICES BE?
Aim for 1/2-inch half-moons. Very thin slices can dry out, while thick pieces take longer for the skin to soften. Keep the pieces similar in thickness.
WHY IS MY SQUASH SOFT BUT NOT BROWNED?
Crowding traps steam. Spread the pieces in one layer with small gaps, use a large pan and let the first side roast undisturbed. Two pans are better than a deep pile.
CAN I USE ANOTHER WINTER SQUASH?
You can use peeled butternut squash, but cut size and timing will change. The no-peel instructions here apply specifically to delicata.
HOW DO I REHEAT LEFTOVERS?
Refrigerate within 2 hours in a covered container and use within 3–4 days. Spread on a tray and reheat in a 375°F oven until hot throughout, reaching 165°F. A microwave is quicker but softens the edges.
