Delicata squash is a type of winter squash with thin, sweet skin and soft, tender orange flesh.
It can be baked or steamed for snacking or used in soups or side dishes.
Delicata’s taste and flavor are very similar to butternut squash because it also contains beta-carotene, which gives this food a very sweet and nutty flavor.
It can be used in baked goods, soups & side dishes, salads & pasta dishes.
That being said, there are a lot of great substitutes for delicata squash.
Some recipes can replace spaghetti squash or acorn squash, though it may alter the taste and flavor slightly.
Read on to learn more.
5 Best Substitutes for Delicata Squash
If you are looking for delicata squash substitutes, then you can choose any of the following.
1 – Acorn Squash
This is the first preference for the substitute of delicate squash. It has a nutty flavor.
Though it has a low level of sweetness as compared to delicate squash because of its mild flavor, it can be a great substitute for delicate squash.
You can use acorn squash for baking without any doubt. Acorn is a little rounder and larger than delicate squash.
Acorn squash also has an edible skin, making it easy to cook, just like the delicate squash.
This is a great substitute for delicata squash, but if you like the sweet flavor, you should not go for acorn squash.
You should choose from the other substitutes of delicata squash.
2 – Carnival Squash
Another substitute for delicate squash can be carnival squash. It can be used for stuffing, and it also adds a lot of color to the dish.
The skin of carnival squash is thin as compared to delicate squash. The flesh of the carnival squash is pale and orange.
When cooked, carnival squash gives a buttery flavor. The best part about carnival squash is that it is very nutritious.
It is rich in vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, and fiber. It tastes delicious when it is paired with lamb, pork, and sausage.
So, it can be used in non-vegetarian dishes, which makes it a great ingredient and a substitute for delicate squash.
So, if you like non-vegetarian, this is a very good substitute for delicate squash.
3 – Butternut Squash
Butternut squash is another great substitute for delicate squash.
When compared to acorn squash, butternut squash is a little sweeter.
It has tender flesh, and it provides a very delicious and creamy flavor.
A lot of people like this kind of flavor. And this is why butternut squash is popular in a lot of places.
Butternut squash is very common to find. You can find it easily in any supermarket.
It can be used in soups and purees. The skin of butternut squash is a little hard.
So it is better to peel the skin before cooking it.
So, if you want something that you can eat with the skin, this may not be a very good option for you.
But other than that, it gives the same flavor as delicate squash.
4 – Sugar Pumpkin
Sugar pumpkin has a sweet flavor and a dry texture. It is smaller and sweeter when compared to delicate squash.
It is perfect for stuffing. You can roast it before adding it to salads or soups.
One good part about sugar pumpkin is that it can also be served on its own.
This makes it a great substitute for delicate squash. And you can use this if it is available near your place.
So, when you cannot find delicata squash, you can also use sugar pumpkin the next time you decide to make something.
5 – Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are something which can be very easily found anywhere.
It can also be considered a substitute for delicate squash.
It has a sweet and nutty flavor. It has a great flavor, and a lot of people like it.
You can consider roasting it, and you can also consider it for stuffing.
Sweet potato is a very healthy option as it is rich in vitamin A and vitamin C.
It is also rich in potassium, iron, and fiber. The flavor is similar to that of delicate squash.
So, this makes sweet potato a really good substitute for delicate squash.
The 5 Best Substitutes for Delicata Squash
Ingredients
- Acorn Squash
- Carnival Squash
- Butternut Squash
- Sugar Pumpkin
- Sweet Potatoes
Instructions
- Choose your preferred substitute from the list of options.
- Organize all of your ingredients.
- Follow the substitution ratio to determine how much is required in your recipe.