I love squash season!! They might just be my favorite vegetable, and we just started getting these delicata squash in our farm box, so I am pretty excited! Delicata squash is hearty, sweet, and super satisfying - plus they are so easy to prepare. No need to peel the skin - just slice and roast! Often times I will just roast them on their own with some oil, salt, and pepper (and maybe a dash of cinnamon) and enjoy them as they are or add them to a salad, but this delicata squash dish adds a little flare and a lot of taste, while still keeping things easy and simple.
This dish is quite starchy and carb-heavy with the squash and white beans, so I would pair it with a protein (like chicken, fish, etc…) for a super easy weeknight meal. You can also just eat a larger portion of this for your entire meal, as it includes a good amount of protein, fiber, and greens. Maybe just add in a little extra peppery arugula!
Ingredients:
(serves 4 as a side)
2 medium delicata squash
1 red onion, peeled and cut into thick wedges
2 cups arugula
1 15 ounce can can white beans (like cannellini), rinsed and drained
3 tbsp of avocado oil (or oil of your choice)
3 oz crumbled feta or goat cheese (optional)
For the dressing:
Zest and juice from 1 lemon
1 tbsp minced shallot
2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
2 tsp Dijon mustard
6 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
preparing the squash
Preheat oven to 425 degrees F
Slice delicata squash in half, lengthwise, scoop out seeds and slice into ½ inch half moon slices
Coat squash and red onion in avocado oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for about 40 minutes, or until browned. Toss at the halfway point.
While squash and onion roasts, make the dressing by whisking together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, shallot, dijon mustard, salt and pepper
Once squash and onions are ready, let cool, then add to a serving bowl, along with arugula, white beans, and dressing. Toss and top with goat cheese or feta (optional) before serving.
Health Benefits of Delicata Squash:
One cup of delicata squash contains 59 percent of the DV for vitamin A!
It is one of the few vegetarian sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which can help reduce inflammation
Delicata squash is also a great source of vitamin C, which will help boost your immune system
It contains high amounts of B vitamins, which can help improve energy levels
Delicata squash has a good amount of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion
Sources and additional reading:
