If you’re searching for a delectable seasonal recipe to warm your winter evenings, look no further than this mouthwatering roasted squash dish. With its fresh flavors and straightforward preparation, it’s sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. So, let’s delve into the details!
Ah, squash – a vegetable that often divides opinion. As a child, I wasn’t particularly enamored by it. However, as I’ve grown older, I’ve come to realize that the key to enticing both kids and adults to eat their veggies lies in the combination of flavor and texture.
This roasted calabaza squash boasts a bright and citrusy taste, complemented by savory and earthy notes, and a subtle fruitiness from the oil. It’s a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds and make your kitchen smell divine.
What You’ll Need for this Recipe
Before we proceed, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients on hand. For the detailed list, measurements, and step-by-step instructions, refer to the recipe card below.
What does calabaza squash taste like?
Calabaza squash has a mild, almost sweet flavor with a hint of nuttiness. If you’ve ever savored butternut or acorn squash, you’ll find calabaza squash pleasantly familiar. In this recipe, the fresh lemon juice and zest infuse it with a refreshing, zesty twist. Even the aroma of the squash as it emerges from the oven is simply captivating.
By the way, did you know that squash is technically a fruit? Yes, it’s true! With its seeds and origins in flowering plant parts, it meets all the criteria. However, we often treat it as a vegetable due to its delightful flavor. But that’s not all – keep reading for more tips on the best time to prepare squash and some handy tricks and tools for this dish.
Tips & Tools
Wondering how to cook calabaza squash to perfection? To start, you’ll need a trusty sheet pan, not just for calabaza but for roasting any vegetable. Cut the squash into bite-sized pieces and ensure that they are spread out on the pan, leaving at least an inch of space between each piece. This allows the squash to roast evenly, preserving its texture and preventing it from turning mushy.
When it comes to winter vegetables, roasting is an ideal cooking method. In this recipe, you can effortlessly combine all the ingredients on the sheet pan without dirtying additional dishes. Use your hands or a couple of kitchen spoons to coat the squash with oil, spices, and the invigorating essence of lemon.
How to Serve
The vibrant flavors of this easy squash recipe harmonize wonderfully with a variety of other dishes. For a well-rounded meal, I recommend pairing it with a protein like my succulent orange maple chicken breast, along with another vegetable or a delightful grain such as fluffy rice. Lemon squash is also a fantastic addition to power bowls – the perfect balance of nutrition and taste.
When is this recipe in season?
Calabaza squash is generally available throughout the year, particularly if you reside in areas where it is grown. However, its peak season is winter, when it truly shines. As for lemons, they are available almost year-round, but their prime time is during the colder months, from November through April. That’s when you’ll find them at their largest and most flavorsome.
More Favorite Winter Recipes
Looking for more culinary inspiration to warm your heart during the winter months? Here are a few of my personal favorites:
- Moroccan-Spiced Chicken, Carrots, and Potatoes
- Sweet Potato Soup with Ginger & Leek
- Winter Salad with Blood Orange Poppy Seed Dressing
I hope you’ll soon savor the citrusy delights of this squash recipe and find creative ways to enjoy your vegetables. Sharing is caring, so make sure to pin it for later and follow me on Pinterest.
Easy Lemon Pepper Squash Recipe
Enjoy the simple pleasure of indulging in this marvelous roasted calabaza squash recipe. With its zesty lemon twist and delightful flavors, it’s a surefire way to elevate your winter dining experience. To discover the full recipe, refer to the card below.
Happy cooking and bon appétit!
