Cranberry & Pistachios Recipe

If you are looking for a dish that perfectly balances sweet, savory, and crunchy textures, then this Maple-Roasted Delicata Squash with Feta, Cranberry & Pistachios is a must-try. The natural sweetness of roasted delicata squash, enhanced by a touch of maple syrup and cinnamon, comes alive when paired with the tanginess of feta cheese and the delightful burst of dried cranberries and crunchy pistachios. This Cranberry & Pistachios combination not only adds vibrant color but also brings a fresh, nutty flavor that makes each bite exciting and satisfying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple yet essential ingredients is key to creating this delicious dish. Each component brings a unique element, whether it’s the creamy feta, the sweet and tart cranberries, or the crunchy pistachios that elevate the overall experience.

• Delicata squash: The star of the dish, with its tender texture and subtly sweet flavor, perfect for roasting.
• Olive oil: Helps roast the squash to golden perfection while adding a smooth richness.
• Maple syrup: Adds natural sweetness that caramelizes beautifully on the squash.
• Cinnamon: A warm spice that complements the maple and squash harmoniously.
• Salt & pepper: Essential for balancing all the flavors and enhancing every bite.
• Feta cheese: Provides a creamy, salty contrast that pairs wonderfully with the sweet elements.
• Dried cranberries: Bursting with tangy sweetness, they bring both flavor and color to the dish.
• Pistachios: Roughly chopped to deliver a satisfying crunch and a tasteful nutty note.
• Fresh parsley (optional): Adds a touch of freshness and a pop of green, perfect for garnish.

How to Make Cranberry & Pistachios

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high heat is ideal for roasting the delicata squash until it’s tender and caramelized. Meanwhile, slice your squash into ½-inch crescents after halving and seeding each piece—the uniform size helps it cook evenly and showcase that beautiful golden color.

Step 2: Toss with Seasonings

In a mixing bowl, gently toss the delicata squash slices with olive oil, maple syrup, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This step ensures every slice is coated with just the right amount of seasoning, allowing the squash’s natural sweetness to shine through with a subtle, spicy warmth from the cinnamon.

Step 3: Roast to Perfection

Arrange the seasoned squash in a single layer on a baking sheet to prevent steaming. Roast in the oven for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping the slices halfway through. This technique creates a lovely caramelized crust while keeping the inside tender and flavorful.

Step 4: Add Cranberry & Pistachios Toppings

Once roasted, transfer the squash to a serving platter. Now comes the fun part—sprinkle the warm squash generously with crumbled feta, dried cranberries, and roughly chopped pistachios. These ingredients create a delightful textural variety, with the Cranberry & Pistachios adding bursts of sweetness and satisfying crunch.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve Warm

For a final touch, scatter some fresh parsley on top if you like. Serve this dish warm to enjoy the perfect harmony of flavors and textures that make the Cranberry & Pistachios topping so irresistible.

How to Serve Cranberry & Pistachios

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like parsley really elevate this dish by adding a splash of vibrant color and a refreshing herbal note. You could also try a light drizzle of extra maple syrup or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes if you enjoy a little heat alongside the sweet and savory elements.

Side Dishes

This Maple-Roasted Delicata Squash pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Think roasted chicken or turkey for a cozy meal or alongside a mixed green salad dressed in citrus vinaigrette to bring lightness and balance. The Cranberry & Pistachios topping offers enough flavor punch that even simple sides will shine.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress your next dinner party? Serve this colorful squash on a large wooden board or rustic platter, letting the Cranberry & Pistachios topping take center stage. You can also stuff the roasted crescents into warm pita bread with a smear of hummus for a creative appetizer or light lunch option that’s bursting with flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover roasted squash topped with Cranberry & Pistachios in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to 3 days, giving you the convenience of enjoying this tasty dish as a quick side or snack later on.

Freezing

While delicate roasted squash is best enjoyed fresh for optimal texture, you can freeze the roasted squash (without toppings) in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Add the Cranberry & Pistachios fresh after reheating for the brightest flavors and crunch.

Reheating

To reheat, spread the leftover roasted squash in a single layer on a baking sheet and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8 to 10 minutes, just until heated through. Then add your Cranberry & Pistachios topping freshly to maintain that delightful crunch and contrasting textures.

FAQs

Can I use other nuts instead of pistachios?

Absolutely! While pistachios add a unique flavor and vibrant color, you can easily substitute with walnuts, pecans, or almonds depending on what you have on hand. Each nut brings its own texture and taste, so feel free to experiment.

Is delicata squash difficult to prepare?

Not at all! Delicata squash is one of the easiest squash varieties to prepare because its skin is thin and edible after roasting, which eliminates peeling. Just slice, seed, and roast for a delicious, fuss-free dish.

Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes, you can. Simply omit the feta or replace it with a plant-based cheese alternative, or even a sprinkle of toasted nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy. The Cranberry & Pistachios topping will still shine beautifully.

How do dried cranberries affect the dish?

Dried cranberries bring a burst of tangy sweetness that contrasts wonderfully with the savory and nutty elements. Their chewy texture adds interest and keeps the dish lively with every bite, making the Cranberry & Pistachios feature stand out.

Can I prepare the toppings ahead of time?

Yes, you can mix the dried cranberries and chopped pistachios in advance and store them in an airtight container. Add the crumbled feta fresh just before serving to keep the creamy texture intact and ensure the toppings are vibrant and fresh.

Final Thoughts

This Maple-Roasted Delicata Squash with Feta, Cranberry & Pistachios has quickly become one of my favorite dishes to make when I want something comforting yet exciting. The beautiful harmony of flavors and textures makes it a memorable dish worth sharing with family and friends. I can’t wait for you to try the Cranberry & Pistachios combination in this recipe and see how it brightens up your table!