Mediterranean Caramelized Delicata Squash with Ricotta & Hot Honey Cranberry Glaze

This Mediterranean-inspired roasted delicata squash is a beautiful balance of savory, creamy, and sweet heat. Tender caramelized slices of delicata squash are layered with smooth ricotta and drizzled with a hot honey cranberry glaze that’s equal parts bright, tangy, and spicy. It’s a simple yet elegant dish perfect for holiday tables or cozy weeknight dinners — a modern twist on seasonal comfort.

Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 3–4

Ingredients

1 medium delicata squash, halved, seeded, and sliced into half-moons

2 tbsp olive oil

Salt & black pepper, to taste

½ cup ricotta cheese

¼ cup cranberry sauce or cranberry jam

2 tbsp honey

½ tsp chili flakes (for hot honey)

Fresh thyme or rosemary, for garnish

Instructions

Preheat the oven:
Heat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Prepare the squash:
Toss the delicata squash slices with olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Spread them out evenly on the baking sheet.

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

Make the hot honey cranberry glaze:
In a small saucepan over low heat, combine cranberry sauce, honey, and chili flakes. Stir until smooth and slightly thickened (about 2–3 minutes).

Assemble the dish:
Arrange the roasted squash on a platter or shallow dish. Dollop ricotta cheese in between the slices.

Drizzle and garnish:
Spoon the warm hot honey cranberry glaze over the top and finish with fresh thyme or rosemary. Serve warm.

Tips

No need to peel delicata squash: Its thin, edible skin becomes tender when roasted, adding texture and nutrients. Just wash it well before slicing.

Uniform slicing is key: Cut the squash into even half-moons (about ½ inch thick) so they roast evenly and caramelize nicely.

Don’t crowd the pan: Give the squash space on the baking sheet. Overcrowding traps steam and prevents browning.

Roast until golden edges form: That deep caramelization brings out the squash’s natural sweetness and makes the dish more flavorful.

Balance your glaze: If your cranberry sauce is very sweet, use a little less honey or add a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten it up.

Serve it warm, not hot: Letting the squash cool slightly before adding ricotta keeps the cheese creamy without melting completely.

Variations

Swap the ricotta: Use whipped feta, burrata, or goat cheese for a sharper or tangier flavor.

Add crunch: Sprinkle toasted walnuts, pecans, or pumpkin seeds for contrast.

Make it spicy-sweet: Add a drizzle of balsamic reduction or pomegranate molasses for more depth.

Use a different glaze: Substitute cranberry with fig jam, apricot preserves, or pomegranate jelly for a new flavor twist.

Turn it into a meal: Layer the roasted squash and ricotta over quinoa, farro, or couscous for a satisfying grain bowl.

Make it dairy-free: Swap ricotta for a cashew or almond-based vegan cheese.

Add greens: Toss in a handful of arugula or spinach under the warm squash for a beautiful salad-style presentation.

Q&A

Q: Can I use another type of squash instead of delicata?
A: Yes. Butternut or acorn squash both work well. Just peel and slice them thinly since their skin is tougher than delicata’s.

Q: How can I make this ahead of time?
A: You can roast the squash and make the glaze a day ahead. Store both separately in the fridge. Reheat the squash in the oven and warm the glaze before assembling. Add ricotta and garnish right before serving.

Q: What’s the best way to serve this?
A: It’s great as a side dish for chicken, turkey, or roasted fish. You can also serve it over toasted sourdough or crostini as an appetizer.

Q: Can I use store-bought hot honey instead of making it?
A: Absolutely. Drizzle store-bought hot honey directly over the squash and cranberry sauce if you prefer less prep.

Q: How can I make this dish more filling?
A: Add cooked grains like quinoa or wild rice underneath, or top with toasted nuts for extra texture and protein.

Nutrition

(per serving)

(Approximate, for 4 servings)

Calories: 240

Protein: 6 g

Fat: 14 g

Carbohydrates: 25 g

Fiber: 4 g

Sugar: 12 g

Sodium: 210 mg

Conclusion

This Mediterranean Caramelized Delicata Squash with Ricotta & Hot Honey Cranberry Glaze is a perfect mix of cozy and elegant. The roasted squash brings natural sweetness, the ricotta adds creaminess, and the glaze ties everything together with a warm, tangy kick. It’s easy to make but looks and tastes like something from a restaurant — ideal for holidays or any dinner that deserves a special touch.