Quick and Easy Four-Ingredient Winter Squash Recipe

Satisfying, nutrient-rich and perfect for roasting, Delicata squashes are irresistible.

Low in carbohydrates and high in fiber, this recipe is not only delicious and easy to make, but also heart healthy. Give your heart a treat and turn the oven on.

“When I’m pressed for time, I go for Delicata squash, they are smaller and more thin-skinned than other winter squashes which makes them easier to cut, quicker to cook. This recipe is a nice side dish and is great cold the next day,” says Jeanne Stough, MS, EP Cardiac Rehabilitation Manager at Aspen Valley Hospital. “The whole process takes about 30 minutes, and most of that is cooking time!”

Ingredients:

3-4 Delicata squash
1 Lemon
Black pepper
Olive Oil

Directions:

Pre-heat your oven to 425 degrees.
Cut the squash in half and de-seed, then cut into ½ inch slices.
Zest the lemon and put aside for later.
Juice the lemon and set aside.
Toss the squash with olive oil, pepper and fresh lemon juice.
Spread the squash out on a baking sheet and cover with foil so they don’t dry out.
Place on the bottom rack of your oven and bake for 8 to 10 minutes, then check to see that the squash pieces are cooked through and tender.
Remove the foil — the sugars and starches will be on the surface of the squash. Brush them with olive oil and bake another 5-10 minutes to caramelize the tops. Flip over, brush with olive oil and add the zest of the lemon to add a bit of sweetness.
When the other side is golden brown, remove and enjoy!