Chili-Brown Sugar Delicata Squash with Bacon, Apples, or Pears

 

INGREDIENTS

  • 1 pound delicata squash (about 1 large)
  • 2 medium ripe but firm pears or apples, sliced
  • 2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
  • 2 slices bacon
  • 2 tablespoons water
  • 1 tablespoon light brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder

DIRECTIONS

Preheat oven to 425°F. Cut squash in half lengthwise; scoop out the seeds. Cut crosswise into 1/4-inch slices. Toss in a large bowl with pears, oil, salt and pepper. Spread on a large baking sheet. Roast the squash and pears until just tender, stirring once or twice, 20 to 25 minutes. Meanwhile, cook bacon in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat until crisp, 4 to 6 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate. Discard all but 2 teaspoons fat from the pan. Over medium heat, stir in water, brown sugar and chili powder. Add the squash and pears; toss to coat. Crumble the bacon on top.