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Squash with Dates and Thyme

Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 16 Jan 2026

Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines

This roasted squash with dates and thyme is a beautiful vegan dish that celebrates the natural sweetness of autumnal produce. By roasting acorn squash with fragrant thyme and crushed garlic, you create a deeply savoury base that contrasts perfectly with the honey-like stickiness of the softened dates. The addition of coconut oil provides a subtle richness, ensuring every wedge is beautifully caramelised and tender.

Ideal as a sophisticated side dish for a Sunday roast or as the centrepiece of a plant-based midweek meal, this recipe is as simple to prepare as it is impressive to serve. The combination of textures—from the velvety squash to the chewy dates—makes it a satisfying choice for those seeking a healthy yet comforting vegetarian option. Finish with a generous scatter of flaky sea salt to balance the flavours perfectly.

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Ingredients for Squash with Dates and Thyme

  • 3 small acorn squash (about 1.4kg ), scrubbed, cut into 1/2 " wedges 1/2 bunch thyme

  • 1/2 bunch thyme

  • 4 garlic cloves, crushed

  • 60ml olive oil

  • 2 tablespoons virgin coconut oil or unsalted butter

  • Kosher salt

  • Freshly ground black pepper

  • 12 dates, pitted, quartered

  • Flaky sea salt (such as Maldon)

How to make Squash with Dates and Thyme

Preheat oven to 218°C. Toss squash, thyme, garlic, olive oil, and coconut oil in a large baking dish; season with kosher salt and pepper. Roast, tossing occasionally, until just tender, 40-45 minutes. Add dates; toss to coat. Roast until squash are very tender and dates are soft, 12-15 minutes.

Arrange squash, dates, garlic, and thyme on a platter, spoon any oil in dish over squash, and sprinkle with sea salt.

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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