Name: Roasted Delicata Squash with Apples Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 delicata squash, halved lengthwise and seeded, cut into ½-inch pieces; ½ cup pearl onions, halved; Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling; 2 tablespoons pepitas and/or pine nuts; 2 cups torn lacinato kale (2 to 3 leaves); 6 sage leaves, chopped; Leaves from 3 fresh thyme sprigs; 1 small gala apple, diced; Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil; 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar; ½ garlic clove, minced; ¼ teaspoon Dijon mustard; ⅛ teaspoon maple syrup; Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Jump to Recipe·5.2 from 17 reviews

If you’ve never tried Roasted Delicata Squash with Apples, you’re in for a genuine treat that effortlessly combines sweet, savory, and nutty flavors into one stunning dish. This autumn-inspired recipe brings together tender roasted delicata squash and crisp apples, complemented by fragrant herbs and toasted pepitas, making it the perfect side or centerpiece for cozy dinners. The balance of textures and tastes in this dish never fails to impress, and I can’t wait to share how simple and satisfying it is to prepare.

Roasted Delicata Squash with Apples Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are delightfully straightforward but each one plays a crucial role in building the layers of flavor and texture that make this dish shine. From the naturally sweet delicata squash and fresh apples to the savory herbs and crunchy toasted nuts, every item elevates the final plate.

Delicata squash, 2 halves chopped: This squash roasts quickly with tender skin that’s delicious and edible, adding vibrant orange color and a delicate sweetness.
Pearl onions, ½ cup, halved: Their mild, slightly sweet flavor softens beautifully during roasting, adding depth and texture.
Extra-virgin olive oil (for drizzling and dressing): The rich, fruity essence of the olive oil enhances both the roasting and the tangy dressing.
Pepitas and/or pine nuts, 2 tablespoons: Toasted for a satisfying crunch and a subtle nutty flavor that contrasts the softness of the squash and apples.
Lacinato kale, 2 cups torn: This hearty green adds earthiness and a little chew, brightening the plate with fresh color.
Fresh sage, 6 leaves chopped: Adds an aromatic, slightly peppery note that complements the sweetness of the squash and apples.
Fresh thyme, leaves from 3 sprigs: Provides subtle, woodsy layers that marry beautifully with the other herbs.
Gala apple, 1 small diced: Adds crispness and a burst of fresh sweetness that awakens each bite.
Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning and to enhance all the natural flavors.
Dressing components: 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, ½ garlic clove minced, ¼ teaspoon Dijon mustard, ⅛ teaspoon maple syrup, plus salt and pepper — these combine into a tangy, slightly sweet vinaigrette that perfectly ties everything together.

How to Make Roasted Delicata Squash with Apples

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Vegetables

First, preheat your oven to a toasty 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. While the oven warms, take your delicata squash and pearl onions and place them on the baking sheet. Drizzle generously with extra-virgin olive oil and sprinkle with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Toss everything gently to coat each piece with oil and seasoning. Arrange the squash and onions so they’re spaced out rather than crowded, which helps them roast evenly and develop that beautiful golden-brown caramelization you want.

Step 2: Roast Until Golden and Tender

Pop the baking sheet into the hot oven and roast for about 25 to 30 minutes. The goal here is to get the delicata squash tender and golden on all sides, while your pearl onions soften and become beautifully browned. Keep an eye on them after 20 minutes and toss if needed to get an even roast. This process brings out the natural sweetness of the squash and onions, creating a fantastic flavor base.

Step 3: Prepare the Tangy Dressing

While the vegetables roast, whisk together the dressing ingredients in a small bowl: olive oil, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, plus a sprinkle of salt and pepper. This tangy, subtly sweet dressing will brighten up the roasted squash and apples perfectly.

Step 4: Toast the Pepitas or Pine Nuts

In a small pan over medium-low heat, add the pepitas and a pinch of salt. Stir them continuously for about 2 minutes until they’re lightly toasted and fragrant. Toasting these nuts makes a huge difference in flavor and texture—they add the perfect nutty crunch to the final dish.

Step 5: Combine the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, toss together torn kale, chopped sage, and thyme leaves. Add in the warm roasted delicata squash and onions along with the diced gala apple. Pour half of the dressing over the mixture and sprinkle in half of the toasted pepitas or pine nuts. Toss everything gently so every bite is bursting with flavor and color.

Step 6: Warm It Through Before Serving

Transfer the salad mixture to an oven-safe dish and pop it back into the oven for 8 to 10 minutes. This step allows the kale to soften slightly and the apples to heat through without losing their crispness. Just before serving, drizzle the remaining dressing over the top and scatter the rest of the pepitas for a final crunch.

How to Serve Roasted Delicata Squash with Apples

Garnishes

Sprinkle fresh thyme leaves or a few extra toasted pepitas on top for a pretty, flavorful finish. A small drizzle of honey or a handful of dried cranberries can also add a lovely contrast if you like a touch of extra sweetness.

Side Dishes

This roasted delicata squash with apples pairs beautifully with roasted chicken, but it’s equally satisfying served alongside quinoa or a simple grain salad for a vegetarian meal. The dish’s natural sweetness and herbaceous notes complement a variety of mains wonderfully.

Creative Ways to Present

For festive gatherings, serve it in a hollowed-out delicata squash for a rustic presentation. You could also layer it over creamy polenta or toss it into warm grain bowls with some crumbled feta for a hearty, satisfying meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld beautifully over time, but for best texture, it’s ideal to reheat gently as described below.

Freezing

Because of the fresh apples and kale, this dish doesn’t freeze well without losing some texture. I recommend enjoying it fresh or reheating leftovers from the fridge rather than freezing.

Reheating

Reheat the dish gently in a low oven (around 300°F) for 10 to 15 minutes or in a skillet on low heat, stirring occasionally. This warms the kale and apples perfectly without overcooking the squash or turning everything mushy.

FAQs

Can I substitute other squash types for delicata?

While delicata is unique because of its tender, edible skin and natural sweetness, you can try using acorn or butternut squash. Just adjust cooking times and peel if necessary, as these varieties take longer to roast and have tougher skins.

Is this dish vegan?

Yes! The Roasted Delicata Squash with Apples recipe contains no animal products and uses plant-based ingredients, making it naturally vegan and vegetarian-friendly.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely. All ingredients used are naturally gluten-free, making this a safe and delicious option for anyone avoiding gluten.

What’s the best apple variety to use?

Gala apples work beautifully thanks to their sweet flavor and crisp texture, but you can also choose Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Pink Lady apples depending on your taste preference and what’s available.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time for a party?

Yes! You can roast the squash and onions, prepare the dressing, and toast the pepitas in advance. Combine everything and then warm it in the oven just before serving to keep the kale fresh and the apples crisp.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a dish that’s both comforting and bright with fresh, seasonal flavors, the Roasted Delicata Squash with Apples is a must-try. Its effortless blend of sweet squash, tart apples, aromatic herbs, and crunchy nuts creates a harmonious and satisfying experience every time. I promise once you make this, it’ll become one of your favorite go-to recipes when you want something both nourishing and absolutely delicious.