The warming scents coming from your oven will drive you mad with anticipation. Although Spanish manchego cheese is included for a family variation, squash lovers won’t need it - the smoked paprika and oven roasting lends incredible flavor to this dish.
1-1/2 to 2poundsassorted summer squashtrimmed and cut into 1-inch chunks
1teaspoonkosher salt
1small sweet peppersuch as a red bell, sliced julienne, 1 inch long
2tablespoonextra-virgin olive oil
2clovesgarlicchopped
1cuponiondiced
2teaspoonspimentónsmoked paprika
2sprigs thymeleaves only
1/2cupcoarsely grated aged manchegooptional
Instructions
Position a rack in the center of the oven and heat the oven to 425°F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
Place the squash pieces in a colander and toss with the salt. Let drain for 20 to 30 minutes. Give the squash a quick rinse to remove extra salt and pat dry. Transfer to a large bowl, and add the peppers.
Heat the oil in a small skillet over medium until shimmering. Add the chopped garlic, pimenton, and thyme leaves, and stir to make a paste. When fragrant - just a minute or so - remove from the heat and pour over the squash and pepper. Toss gently to coat thoroughly. Transfer to the baking sheet, spreading out the pieces in one even layer.
Roast until the edges of the squash start to turn golden (about 15 minutes), then flip with a spatula. Continue roasting until the upsides are golden, and the squash is tender, about 15 minutes more.
Move to a serving dish and sprinkle with the cheese (if using).