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Winter Squash Agrodolce

This vibrant winter squash agrodolce is a sophisticated vegan side dish that celebrates the natural sweetness of seasonal produce. By roasting kabocha and delicata squash until caramelised and tender, you create the perfect base for a punchy, Italian-style sweet and sour glaze. The combination of red wine vinegar, honey and piquant Fresno chillies cuts through the richness of the squash, while chopped golden raisins provide a delightful chew and shards of red pepper flakes add a gentle heat.

A versatile addition to any autumn or winter menu, this colourful dish works beautifully as part of a Sunday roast or as a centrepiece for a plant-based dinner party. It is also a practical choice for entertaining, as the squash can be prepared up to three hours in advance and finished with a final drizzle of warm syrup just before it hits the table.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Winter Squash Agrodolce

  • 1 (900g ) kabocha squash, peeled, seeds removed, cut into 1" wedges

  • 2 delicata or dumpling squashes, seeds removed, cut into 1" wedges

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • Kosher salt, freshly ground pepper

  • 2 Fresno chillies, thinly sliced

  • 180ml red wine vinegar

  • 60ml honey

  • 2 tablespoons golden raisins, chopped

  • 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

How to make Winter Squash Agrodolce

Preheat oven to 204°C. Place kabocha and delicata squash on separate large rimmed baking sheets. Drizzle with oil; season with salt and pepper. Roast, tossing occasionally, until squashes are golden brown and tender, 30–35 minutes for kabocha and 20-25 minutes for delicata.

Meanwhile, bring chillies, vinegar, honey, raisins, red pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt to a boil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Reduce heat and simmer until syrupy, 8–10 minutes.

Brush half of warm agrodolce over warm squash. Transfer to a platter.

Just before serving, reheat remaining agrodolce, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen. Spoon over squash.

Dish can be made 3 hours ahead. Store tightly wrapped at room temperature.

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.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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