This recipe combines a variety of flavors and textures to create a nutritious and delicious side dish. Delicata squash is rich in fiber, vitamins A and C, and potassium, which support digestion, immune health, and heart health. The honey glaze adds a touch of natural sweetness, while the tangy cider vinegar balances the flavors and provides additional health benefits. Pine nuts contribute healthy fats, protein, and essential minerals, and fresh mint adds a refreshing, aromatic touch. With its edible skin, delicata squash offers added fiber and nutrients, making this recipe a wholesome and satisfying choice for any meal.
Cook Time: 30 mins | Additional Time: 45 mins | Total Time: 1 hr 15 mins | Servings: 12
Ingredients:
- 5 pounds delicata or acorn squash
- 4 shallots, quartered lengthwise
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- ½ teaspoon fine sea salt plus a pinch, divided
- ¼ teaspoon ground pepper
- ½ cup honey
- ½ cup cider vinegar
- ½ cup pomegranate seeds
- ¼ cup pine nuts, toasted
- ¼ cup fresh mint, finely chopped
Directions:
- Position racks in upper and lower thirds of oven; preheat to 400 degrees F.
- Halve squash lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Cut crosswise into 1-inch-thick slices. Toss the squash slices and shallots with oil, 1/2 teaspoon salt and pepper in a large bowl. Divide between 2 large rimmed baking sheets.
- Roast, turning each piece over and rotating the pans top to bottom halfway through, until the squash is tender and caramelized in spots, 30 to 40 minutes. Transfer the squash and shallots to a serving platter.
- A few minutes before serving, combine honey, vinegar and a pinch of salt in a small saucepan; bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce heat to a lively simmer and cook, watching closely toward the end, until reduced to about 1/2 cup, 5 to 8 minutes. Immediately drizzle the syrup over the squash. Serve topped with pomegranate seeds, pine nuts and mint.
Make Ahead Tip: Prepare through Step 3 and let stand at room temperature for up to 2 hours; just before serving, reheat, if desired, then finish with Step 4.
Cut Down on Dishes: A rimmed baking sheet is great for everything from roasting to catching accidental drips and spills. For effortless cleanup and to keep your baking sheets in tip-top shape, line them with a layer of foil before each use.
Nutrition Facts:
Serving Size 3-5 squash slices; Calories 164; Total Fat 6g; Saturated Fat 1g; Sodium 116mg; Total Carbohydrate 30g; Dietary Fiber 3g; Total Sugars 16g; Added Sugars 12g; Protein 2g; Vitamin C 17mg; Calcium 57mg; Iron 2mg; Potassium 579mg
