Roasted Delicata Squash with Spiced Pepitas and Maple-Tahini Drizzle

Roasted Delicata Squash with Spiced Pepitas and Maple-Tahini Drizzle ingredients

• 2 medium delicata squash
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 0.5 tsp salt
• 0.25 tsp black pepper
• 0.5 cup pepitas (raw pumpkin seeds)
• 1 tsp olive oil
• 0.25 tsp cumin
• 0.25 tsp smoked paprika
• 0.125 tsp cayenne pepper
• 0.125 tsp salt
• 3 tbsp tahini
• 2 tbsp maple syrup
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1-2 tbsp cold water
• 1 pinch salt

How to make Roasted Delicata Squash with Spiced Pepitas and Maple-Tahini Drizzle

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the delicata squash: Wash the delicata squash thoroughly. You do not need to peel it, as the skin is edible once cooked. Slice each squash in half lengthwise and use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and stringy bits. Cut each half into 1/2-inch thick crescent-shaped slices.
3. Roast the squash: In a large bowl, toss the delicata squash slices with 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper until evenly coated. Spread the squash in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the squash is tender, lightly caramelized, and slightly browned at the edges. Remove from the oven.
5. Prepare the spiced pepitas: While the squash roasts, heat 1 teaspoon olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add 1/2 cup pepitas and toast, stirring frequently, for 3-5 minutes until they begin to puff and turn lightly golden.
6. Season the pepitas: Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in 1/4 teaspoon cumin, 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (if using), and 1/8 teaspoon salt. Toss to coat the pepitas evenly.
7. Make the maple-tahini drizzle: In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons tahini, 2 tablespoons maple syrup, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, and a pinch of salt until smooth. Gradually whisk in 1-2 tablespoons of cold water, one tablespoon at a time, until the drizzle reaches a smooth, pourable consistency.
8. Assemble and serve: Arrange the roasted delicata squash on a serving platter. Drizzle generously with the maple-tahini mixture over the warm squash. Sprinkle the spiced pepitas evenly over the top.
9. Serve immediately as a vibrant and flavorful Thanksgiving side dish.

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