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Best Maple Roasted Delicata Squash Rings Recipe

maple roasted delicata squash rings - featured image

These maple roasted delicata squash rings are impossibly easy, made with simple ingredients, and perfect for hosting. The edges get caramelized and almost crispy, while the centers stay tender and creamy, making them a crowd-pleaser for any gathering.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium delicata squash
  • 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup (Grade A dark amber recommended)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (or avocado oil)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt (Diamond Crystal preferred; use half if using table salt)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Fresh thyme or rosemary for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Give it a full 15 minutes to come to temperature.
  2. Wash and dry the squash. Delicata squash doesn’t need peeling, but scrub the skin well.
  3. Trim the ends: slice off about 1/4 inch from both ends of each squash.
  4. Slice into rings: cut the squash crosswise into 1/2-inch thick rings (about 6-8 rings per squash).
  5. Scoop out the seeds from the center of each ring using a small spoon or your fingers.
  6. Make the glaze: in a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, olive oil, salt, pepper, cinnamon, and cayenne if using.
  7. Toss the rings: place the squash rings in a large bowl and pour the glaze over them. Use your hands to gently massage the glaze onto every surface.
  8. Arrange on the baking sheet: lay the rings in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between each ring.
  9. Roast for 15 minutes on the middle rack.
  10. Flip and brush: after 15 minutes, remove the sheet from the oven. Carefully flip each ring using a metal spatula. Brush with any remaining glaze.
  11. Roast for another 10-15 minutes until deep golden brown and tender.
  12. Rest and garnish: let the rings cool on the baking sheet for 2-3 minutes. Transfer to a serving platter and sprinkle with fresh thyme or rosemary if desired.

Notes

Don’t skip the flipping step for even caramelization. Watch your oven closely as the difference between perfectly caramelized and burnt happens fast. Double the batch for parties (use 4-5 squash for 8-10 people). The glaze can be made up to 3 days ahead and stored in the fridge. Use a metal spatula to avoid sticking. For best results, slice rings uniformly 1/2-inch thick.

Nutrition

Keywords: delicata squash, maple roasted squash, roasted squash rings, fall side dish, easy squash recipe, vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free