Twice-Roasted Squash with Parmesan Butter and Grains

Ingredients for Twice-Roasted Squash with Parmesan Butter and Grains

• 1 (3–4-lb.) kabocha, buttercup, or kuri squash

• 90g Parmesan, coarsely grated, plus more shaved for serving

• 110g (1 stick) unsalted butter, room temperature

• 1/2 teaspoons finely grated lemon zest

• Kosher salt, freshly ground pepper

• 45ml fresh lemon juice

• 45ml unseasoned rice vinegar

• 45ml extra-virgin olive oil

• 1 tablespoon honey

• 2 spring onions, thinly sliced

• 1325ml cooked whole grains (such as barley, farro, and/or black or red quinoa)

• 45g unsalted, roasted pumpkin seeds (pepitas)

• 3 tablespoons golden raisins

• Shaved Parmesan (for serving)

Place a rack in middle of oven; preheat to 149°C. Prick squash all over with the point of a sharp paring knife and arrange on a foil-lined rimmed baking sheet. Roast until very tender (knife should slide easily through the flesh), about 3 hours. Tear or cut squash in half and let sit until cool enough to handle.

Remove seeds from squash; discard. Scoop flesh into a medium bowl. Tear skin into 6 large (about 4x4") pieces and set aside on same baking sheet to be refilled later; discard any excess skin. Add grated Parmesan, butter, and lemon zest to bowl with flesh and mash together to combine; season with salt and pepper.

Carefully move rack to upper third of oven and increase oven temperature to 232°C. Divide mashed squash mixture among reserved pieces of skin and roast until top of flesh is beginning to brown, 10–12 minutes.

While the squash is roasting, whisk lemon juice, vinegar, oil, and honey in a large bowl. Add spring onions, grains, pumpkin seeds, and raisins to dressing and toss to coat.

Arrange squash on a platter and spoon grain mixture and dressing over. Top with shaved Parmesan.

Whole squash can be roasted 4 days ahead. Keep intact and chill.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.