Mediterranean Caramelized Delicata Squash with Ricotta & Hot Honey Cranberry Glaze

Mediterranean Caramelized Delicata Squash with Ricotta & Hot Honey Cranberry Glaze

🌿 Ingredients

For the Delicata Squash

• 2 medium delicata squash (halved, seeds removed, sliced into half-moons)

• 3 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• ½ tsp ground cumin

• ½ tsp dried oregano

• Salt & black pepper to taste

For the Ricotta Layer

• 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• Zest of ½ lemon

• Salt to taste

For the Hot Honey Cranberry Glaze

• ½ cup fresh or dried cranberries

• ¼ cup honey

• 1–2 tsp chili flakes (adjust to taste)

• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar

• 2 tbsp water

Garnish (Optional but Recommended)

• Chopped pistachios or walnuts

• Fresh thyme or parsley

🔥 Instructions

1️⃣ Roast the Squash

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).

2. Toss squash with olive oil, paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper.

3. Arrange on a baking sheet in a single layer.

4. Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden, tender, and caramelized.

2️⃣ Prepare the Ricotta

1. In a bowl, mix ricotta with olive oil, lemon zest, and salt.

2. Whip lightly until smooth and creamy. Set aside.

3️⃣ Make the Hot Honey Cranberry Glaze

1. Add cranberries, honey, chili flakes, balsamic vinegar, and water to a saucepan.

2. Simmer on medium-low heat for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

3. Cranberries should burst and glaze should thicken slightly.

4️⃣ Assemble

1. Spread whipped ricotta onto a serving plate.

2. Top with roasted delicata squash.

3. Drizzle generously with hot honey cranberry glaze.

4. Finish with nuts and fresh herbs.

🍽️ Serving Ideas

• Serve warm as a Mediterranean-style appetizer

• Pair with grilled chicken, lamb, or baked fish

• Perfect holiday or dinner-party side dish

❓ Q & A

Q: Can I use another squash?
A: Yes! Butternut or acorn squash works well—just peel if needed.

Q: Can this be made ahead?
A: Yes. Roast squash and glaze ahead; assemble just before serving.

Q: Is this spicy?
A: Mild heat. Reduce chili flakes or skip for a sweet-only glaze.

Q: Can I air-fry the squash?
A: Absolutely! Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes, shaking halfway.

Q: Dairy-free option?
A: Swap ricotta with whipped hummus or cashew cream.