07 May 2025
Cook time 45 min
Prep time 10 min
Ingredients:
1 squash
3 tbsp olive oil
2 limes
Roasted calabaza with lime and olive oil is a simple yet delicious dish that's perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The sweetness of the calabaza pairs wonderfully with the tangy lime and rich olive oil, creating a flavorful medley that is sure to satisfy your taste buds. In this recipe, we’ll guide you through the steps to achieve perfectly roasted calabaza that is golden brown and full of flavor.
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure it's hot enough to roast the calabaza effectively.
2. Prepare the Squash:
- Start by thoroughly washing the calabaza squash to remove any dirt.
- Cut the squash in half and remove the seeds with a spoon. Once deseeded, slice the squash into even-sized cubes, approximately 1-inch pieces. This ensures even cooking.
3. Dress the Squash:
- In a large mixing bowl, add the squash cubes.
- Drizzle the 3 tablespoons of olive oil over the squash.
- Cut the limes in half and squeeze the juice from the limes over the squash. Be sure to catch any seeds with a small strainer or your hand.
- Toss the squash gently to ensure each piece is well-coated with the olive oil and lime juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Roast the Squash:
- Spread the dressed calabaza cubes onto a large baking sheet in a single layer to ensure even roasting.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for about 25-30 minutes. Halfway through, use a spatula to turn the squash pieces so they roast evenly on all sides.
- The squash is done when it is golden brown and tender when pierced with a fork.
5. Serve:
- Remove the roasted calabaza from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before transferring to a serving dish.
- Optionally, you can garnish with extra lime zest or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like cilantro for added flavor and color.
6. Enjoy:
- Serve the roasted calabaza as a side dish with your favorite main course. It's a delicious complement to roasted meats, grilled fish, or as part of a vegetarian spread.
Tips:
- Choose a fresh and firm calabaza for the best texture and flavor.
- Make sure to coat the calabaza evenly with olive oil to ensure an even roast.
- Zest one of the limes before juicing for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
- For a more caramelized result, turn the calabaza pieces halfway through the roasting process.
Roasting calabaza with lime and olive oil is a straightforward recipe that brings out the natural flavors of the ingredients while adding a pleasant twist. With the tips provided, you can ensure that your dish comes out perfectly every time. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting, this recipe is a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire.