Elevate Your Grilling Game with Grilled Delicata Squash
Are you looking for a delicious and nutritious side dish to accompany your next barbecue? Look no further than Grilled Delicata Squash! With its sweet and savory flavor profile and tender texture, this simple yet elegant dish is sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a summer cookout or simply craving a healthy vegetable side, grilled delicata squash is the perfect choice. Join us as we explore this mouthwatering recipe and learn how to grill up the ultimate squash sensation.
Ingredients:
Produce:
- 2 Large delicata squash
Condiments:
- 1/3 cup Maple syrup
Baking & Spices:
- 1 tsp Cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp Ground nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp Salt
Dairy:
- 1/3 cup Unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp Crumbled feta cheese
Instructions:
- Preheat Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 375-400°F (190-200°C).
- Prepare Squash: Wash the delicata squash thoroughly and pat dry. Cut off both ends of each squash, then slice them in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and stringy pulp from the center of each squash half.
- Season Squash: In a small saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over low heat. Stir in the maple syrup, cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
- Grill Squash: Brush the cut sides of the delicata squash halves with the melted butter mixture, making sure to coat them evenly.
- Grill: Place the squash halves cut side down on the preheated grill. Close the lid and grill for 5-7 minutes, or until grill marks appear and the squash is starting to soften.
- Flip and Grill: Carefully flip the squash halves over using tongs. Brush the skin side with the remaining butter mixture. Close the lid and grill for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the squash is tender and caramelized.
- Serve: Remove the grilled delicata squash from the grill and transfer them to a serving platter. Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the top for an extra burst of flavor.
- Enjoy: Serve the grilled delicata squash hot as a delicious side dish alongside your favorite grilled meats or as a standalone vegetarian option.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Add Some Heat: For a spicy kick, sprinkle a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes over the squash before grilling.
- Enhance with Herbs: Add depth of flavor by incorporating fresh herbs such as chopped parsley, thyme, or rosemary into the butter mixture.
- Go Vegan: For a dairy-free and vegan-friendly option, omit the butter and feta cheese. Instead, brush the squash with olive oil and sprinkle with nutritional yeast before grilling.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
Q: Can I use a different type of squash for this recipe? A: While delicata squash is recommended for its tender texture and edible skin, you can also use other varieties such as butternut squash or acorn squash. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the size and thickness of the squash.
Q: Can I grill the squash indoors if I don’t have an outdoor grill? A: Yes, you can grill delicata squash indoors using a grill pan or an electric countertop grill. Simply follow the same instructions for seasoning and grilling the squash, adjusting the cooking time as needed.
Q: How should I store leftover grilled squash? A: Leftover grilled delicata squash can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven before serving.
Q: Can I make this dish keto-friendly or low-carb? A: Yes, you can make a keto or low-carb version of this dish by substituting the maple syrup with a sugar-free sweetener such as erythritol or monk fruit sweetener. You can also omit the feta cheese for a dairy-free option.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
For those following a keto or low-carb lifestyle, here’s how to modify the recipe:
- Sugar-Free Sweetener: Replace the maple syrup with a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol or monk fruit sweetener. You can adjust the sweetness to taste.
- Dairy-Free Option: Omit the feta cheese to reduce the carb content of the dish. You can sprinkle the grilled squash with a pinch of sea salt or a squeeze of lemon juice for added flavor instead.
Grilled Delicata Squash is a simple yet sensational dish that celebrates the natural sweetness and flavor of this seasonal vegetable. Whether you’re grilling up a feast for a backyard barbecue or preparing a cozy dinner at home, this recipe is sure to delight your taste buds and impress your guests. So fire up the grill, grab some fresh delicata squash, and get ready to enjoy a delicious and nutritious side dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
