Flavorful Za’atar Roasted Delicata Squash Salad: A Healthy & Easy Mediterranean-Inspired Recipe

Elevate your mealtime with this exquisite Za’atar Roasted Delicata Squash recipe, a delightful way to transform this beloved winter squash. Imagine tender delicata squash, seasoned with aromatic za’atar, served atop a vibrant bed of fresh greens. This dish is beautifully complemented by the zesty tang of pickled red onions, the burst of juicy pomegranate seeds, the satisfying crunch of almonds, creamy feta cheese, and the chewy sweetness of dried apricots, all brought together with a light, flavorful dressing. This incredibly easy and healthy recipe will quickly become one of your favorite ways to enjoy delicata squash!

Introducing Za’atar Roasted Delicata Squash

Among the many wonderful varieties of winter squash, delicata squash holds a special place in my heart. Its delicate flavor, creamy texture, and charming appearance make it a true culinary gem, especially during the cooler months. You might recall the popular Parmesan Delicata Squash recipe I shared previously, which has become a staple for many of you. Today, we’re diving into another fantastic preparation method: Za’atar Roasted Delicata Squash, perfect for an impressive holiday side dish or a satisfying weeknight meal.

For those unfamiliar with delicata squash, its taste is often compared to that of butternut squash, boasting a naturally sweet and buttery profile. Some even find hints of sweet potato in its rich flavor and wonderfully moist texture. A significant bonus of delicata squash is its edible skin! Unlike many other squash varieties, there’s no need for arduous peeling, saving you precious time and effort in the kitchen. Once cooked, the skin becomes tender and subtly sweet, seamlessly blending into the squash’s flesh.

This particular recipe for Za’atar Roasted Delicata Squash is incredibly straightforward. It’s designed to be adaptable, allowing you to experiment with different spices if za’atar isn’t readily available or if you simply wish to explore other flavor combinations. While delicious on its own as a side, I especially love incorporating this roasted delicata squash into a vibrant salad, an option we’ll explore in detail today.

Essential Ingredients for Your Roasted Delicata Squash Salad

Creating this flavorful Za’atar Roasted Delicata Squash Salad requires a handful of fresh, vibrant ingredients that come together to create a harmonious blend of tastes and textures:

• DELICATA SQUASH: The star of this dish, delicata squash, is also known by charming aliases like peanut squash, Bohemian squash, or sweet potato squash. When selecting your squash, look for one that is yellow with distinctive green stripes along its ribs. It should feel firm to the touch and surprisingly heavy for its size, indicating a ripe and juicy interior. Avoid squash that appears light green, as this suggests it’s unripe, or any with numerous off-color spots, which could mean it’s past its prime. Its thin, edible skin makes it a fuss-free option for roasting.
• ZA’ATAR: This extraordinary Middle Eastern spice blend is a cornerstone of Mediterranean cuisine and a personal favorite. Za’atar typically combines earthy spices such as cumin and coriander with nutty sesame seeds, a touch of salt, and the distinctive tangy flavor of sumac. This blend imparts a unique, vibrant, and slightly sour note that perfectly complements the sweetness of the squash. If you don’t have za’atar on hand, feel free to substitute it with another favorite spice blend like a mix of dried oregano, thyme, and a pinch of cumin, or even a simple Italian seasoning.
• AVOCADO OR OLIVE OIL: Both avocado oil and extra virgin olive oil work beautifully for roasting the squash, providing a rich flavor and helping achieve that desired golden-brown crust. Choose a high-quality oil for the best results.
• MIXED GREENS: A fresh bed of mixed greens forms the base of this salad. While any blend you prefer will work, I particularly love using arugula. Its peppery notes provide a fantastic counterpoint to the sweet, roasted winter squash, adding a delightful zing to every bite. Other great options include spinach, spring mix, or even a hearty kale, massaged lightly with a bit of dressing.
• PICKLED RED ONIONS: These vibrant, tangy onions add a crucial element of acidity and crunch, cutting through the richness of the other ingredients. Their bright color also makes the salad visually appealing. You can easily make your own quick pickled red onions at home with just a few simple ingredients!
• SLICED ALMONDS: Toasted sliced almonds introduce a wonderful nutty flavor and essential textural contrast to the salad. They add a satisfying crunch that makes each forkful more interesting. Feel free to substitute with other nuts like walnuts, pecans, or pistachios if you prefer.
• FETA CHEESE: Crumbled feta cheese provides a salty, briny, and creamy element that truly enhances the Mediterranean character of the dish. Its sharp flavor beautifully balances the sweetness of the squash and fruit. For a dairy-free option, you can omit the feta or use a plant-based alternative.
• POMEGRANATE SEEDS: I highly recommend not skipping these jewel-toned seeds! They offer a delightful pop of sweetness and a burst of juicy flavor, along with a stunning visual appeal. The ruby-red color adds a festive touch to the salad. If pomegranates are out of season or unavailable, consider fresh berries like sliced strawberries or raspberries for a similar sweet-tart note.
• DRIED APRICOTS: These chewy, sweet morsels contribute another layer of sweetness and a pleasant textural chewiness to the salad. Their soft texture contrasts nicely with the crunchy elements. You can easily substitute dried apricots with any other dried fruit you enjoy, such as dried cranberries, raisins, chopped figs, or even dried cherries.

How to Perfectly Roast Delicata Squash

Roasting delicata squash is simple and brings out its natural sweetness and tender texture. Follow these steps for perfectly cooked squash:

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheets

Preheat your oven to a hot 425 degrees F (220 degrees C). This high heat is key to achieving a beautifully caramelized exterior and tender interior. Prepare two non-stick baking sheets, or line standard baking sheets with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking. A light spray of cooking oil on the sheets also works wonders.

Step 2: Slice and Seed the Squash

Carefully slice each delicata squash lengthwise down the middle. Using a sturdy spoon, scoop out the seeds and any stringy pulp. Unlike other squash varieties, the skin of delicata is thin and edible, so no need to peel! Next, cut the squash halves into elegant half-moon slices, approximately 1/2 inch thick. Place these slices into a large mixing bowl, ensuring there’s enough room for them to be tossed easily.

Step 3: Season the Squash

Drizzle the avocado or olive oil evenly over the delicata squash slices in the mixing bowl. Sprinkle generously with za’atar, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Toss the squash thoroughly with your hands or a spatula, ensuring each piece is well coated with the oil and spices. This even coating is essential for maximum flavor and consistent roasting.

Step 4: First Bake – Golden Brown

Arrange the seasoned squash slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheets. Ensure they are not overcrowded, as this can steam the squash instead of roasting it, preventing that coveted caramelization. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the first side is beautifully golden brown and slightly tender.

Step 5: Flip and Finish Roasting

Carefully flip each squash slice to the other side to ensure even cooking and browning. Continue baking for another 10 minutes, or until both sides are golden brown and the squash is fork-tender throughout. The edges should be slightly crispy and caramelized.

Step 6: Serve or Cool

Once perfectly roasted, remove the delicata squash from the oven. It’s fantastic served warm as a side dish. Alternatively, let it cool completely if you plan to incorporate it into salads or other cold dishes. The roasted squash can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, making it excellent for meal prep.

Crafting the Perfect Salad Dressing

A great salad needs a fantastic dressing, and this light, herb-infused vinaigrette is the ideal companion for our Za’atar Roasted Delicata Squash Salad. The key is its simplicity, allowing the flavors of the main ingredients to shine while adding a zesty kick.

To prepare the dressing, simply combine extra virgin olive oil, Dijon mustard (for a creamy emulsification and subtle tang), apple cider vinegar (for brightness), fresh herbs like parsley, chives, and dill (for aromatic freshness), minced garlic (for a pungent depth), and a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Whisk all these ingredients vigorously in a small bowl or shake them well in a mason jar or a dedicated salad dressing container until thoroughly combined. This method creates a perfectly balanced and emulsified dressing that clings beautifully to the salad components.

If you’re looking to explore other dressing options, this salad also pairs wonderfully with a creamy touch. Consider my Creamy Dill Dressing for a fresh, herbaceous complement, a rich Tahini Sauce for an authentic Middle Eastern flavor profile, or a lighter Tahini Yogurt Dressing for a tangy and refreshing finish. Each option brings a unique dimension to the dish, so don’t hesitate to customize!

The Nutritional Benefits of Delicata Squash

Beyond its delightful taste and ease of preparation, delicata squash is a powerhouse of nutrition, making this dish not just delicious but incredibly healthy too! This humble winter squash is an excellent source of dietary fiber, which is crucial for digestive health and can help maintain stable blood sugar levels. It also provides a significant amount of potassium, an essential mineral for blood pressure regulation and overall heart health.

Furthermore, delicata squash contains beneficial amounts of Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that supports immune function, and B vitamins, vital for energy metabolism. You’ll also find magnesium and manganese, both important for various bodily functions, from bone health to enzyme activation. While many winter squashes are renowned for their high beta-carotene content, delicata squash offers a slightly different nutritional profile, providing a well-rounded set of vitamins and minerals to support your wellbeing.

Yes, Delicata Squash Skin is Edible!

One of the most appealing features of delicata squash, and indeed where it gets its name, is its delicate and completely edible skin. This means you can skip the often-cumbersome step of peeling, saving you significant prep time and making this recipe even easier. When roasted, the skin softens beautifully, becoming tender and a little bit sweet, seamlessly blending with the creamy flesh of the squash. Its texture, once cooked, is surprisingly similar to that of roasted butternut squash, providing a consistent and enjoyable eating experience. So, rest assured, you can enjoy every bit of this delicious squash!

Other Squash Varieties for This Recipe

While delicata squash is truly wonderful in this recipe, its versatility means you can easily substitute it with other winter squash varieties if preferred or if delicata is not available. Each squash will bring its unique flavor and texture, offering a slightly different, but equally delicious, experience. When using other squashes, remember that peeling might be required (e.g., butternut) and roasting times might vary slightly depending on the density and thickness of your slices.

Here are some excellent alternatives:

• BUTTERNUT SQUASH:

  Sweet and creamy, butternut squash is a popular choice and works very well when roasted. Remember to peel it first.

• ACORN SQUASH:

  With its distinctive ridged skin, acorn squash offers a slightly nuttier flavor than delicata. It can also be roasted with the skin on, similar to delicata.

• BANANA SQUASH:

  Known for its large size and often vibrant orange flesh, banana squash is sweet and dense. It will need to be peeled and cut into manageable pieces.

• BUTTERCUP SQUASH:

  A rich, sweet, and nutty squash with a smooth texture. Buttercup squash has a tough rind that should be removed before roasting.

• CARNIVAL SQUASH:

  A beautiful cross between acorn and sweet dumpling squash, offering a sweet and mild flavor with edible skin.

• KABOCHA SQUASH:

  Often called Japanese pumpkin, kabocha has a rich, sweet flavor similar to sweet potato and pumpkin. Its skin is edible when roasted but can be a bit tougher than delicata.

• HONEYNUT SQUASH:

  A smaller, sweeter version of butternut squash, honeynut offers concentrated flavor and can also be roasted with its skin.

• SPAGHETTI SQUASH:

  While primarily known for its noodle-like strands, roasted spaghetti squash can offer a lighter, more fibrous texture to this salad.

• SWEET DUMPLING SQUASH:

  Small, white, and ribbed, sweet dumpling squash has a tender, sweet flavor and edible skin, making it another great alternative to delicata.

Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Za’atar Roasted Delicata Squash

This versatile Za’atar Roasted Delicata Squash, whether as a salad or a standalone side, complements a wide array of main courses and is perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to holiday feasts. Its unique flavor profile and hearty texture make it a fantastic addition to many meals. Here are some of my favorite ways to enjoy it:

• Herb Butter Roasted Turkey: A classic holiday pairing, the earthy za’atar and sweet squash beautifully complement a succulent roasted turkey.

• Moroccan Red Lentil Soup: The warm, savory flavors of this soup find a delightful contrast with the spiced, sweet squash.

• Healthy Chicken Tenders: For a family-friendly meal, pair the roasted squash with crispy, healthy chicken tenders.

• Air Fryer Cod: The light, flaky cod creates a balanced meal with the robust flavors of the squash.

• Homemade Minestrone Soup: Add a side of this squash to a comforting bowl of minestrone for added texture and nutrients.

• Mediterranean Baked Turkey Meatballs: Continue the Mediterranean theme by serving the squash alongside these flavorful meatballs.

• The Best Roast Beef Recipe: A sophisticated pairing, the sweetness of the squash cuts through the richness of roast beef beautifully.

Beyond these suggestions, consider adding the roasted delicata squash to grain bowls, wraps, or even as a flavorful topping for pizzas or flatbreads. Its versatility is truly endless!

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Za’atar Roasted Delicata Squash Recipe

By Julia Jolliff

Prep: 10 mins
Cook: 20 mins
Total: 30 mins

Servings: 4 servings

Za’atar Roasted Delicata Squash is a delicious way to make this variety of squash.

Ingredients

• 1 delicata squash, cut in half lengthwise, seeds removed, then cut into half rings
• 2 teaspoons za’atar
• 1 tablespoon avocado oil, or other neutral oil
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
• 6 cups mixed greens
• 1/4 cup pickled red onion
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds
• 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds
• 1/4 cup dried apricots
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil (for dressing)
• 1 tablespoon dijon mustard (for dressing)
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (for dressing)
• 2 tablespoons parsley, chives, and dill (for dressing)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (for dressing)
• Salt and pepper to taste (for dressing)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C). Use two non-stick baking sheets or spray with cooking oil.
2. Slice each squash lengthwise in half and use a spoon to scoop out the seeds. Cut the squash into thin half-moon slices. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the squash along with za’atar, salt, and black pepper. Toss the squash well to coat with the olive oil.
4. Lay each squash half on the baking sheet and bake on one side for 10-12 minutes (or until the first side is golden brown).
5. Flip the squash to the other side and cook for 10 more minutes or until golden brown and tender.
6. Remove from the oven and serve immediately, or let cool to add to salads.
7. For the dressing, mix together the extra virgin olive oil, dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, fresh herbs, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a small bowl or jar. Whisk or shake well until combined. Set aside until ready to use.
8. To assemble the salads, divide the greens evenly between two bowls and top with the roasted delicata squash, pickled red onion, sliced almonds, crumbled feta cheese, pomegranate seeds, and dried apricots.
9. Drizzle generously with the prepared dressing and serve immediately.

Nutrition

Calories: 296kcal, Carbohydrates: 22g, Protein: 5g, Fat: 22g, Saturated Fat: 4g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g, Monounsaturated Fat: 15g, Cholesterol: 8mg, Sodium: 463mg, Potassium: 710mg, Fiber: 4g, Sugar: 9g, Vitamin A: 2753IU, Vitamin C: 33mg, Calcium: 127mg, Iron: 2mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.