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Crispy Maple Roasted Delicata Squash Rings: Best Easy Side

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These crispy maple roasted delicata squash rings are sweet, salty, and caramelized—a quick and easy side dish that transforms a humble vegetable into something special. Perfect for fall gatherings or a simple weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 medium delicata squash (about 1 to 1.5 pounds)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (or avocado oil)
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
  • 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup (Grade A Dark Amber recommended)
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Flaky sea salt for serving (optional)
  • Fresh thyme or rosemary for garnish (optional)
  • Pomegranate seeds for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
  2. Wash the delicata squash thoroughly and pat dry. Trim off both ends (about 1/4 inch from each end) and discard.
  3. Slice the squash crosswise into 1/2-inch thick rings. Remove seeds and stringy bits from the center of each ring using your fingers or a small spoon.
  4. Place the rings in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Toss gently with your hands to coat each ring evenly.
  5. Arrange the rings in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each ring.
  6. Roast for 10 minutes.
  7. While the squash roasts, make the maple glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, cinnamon (if using), and cayenne (if using). Set aside.
  8. After 10 minutes, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Use tongs to carefully flip each ring. Brush or drizzle the maple glaze over the tops of the rings.
  9. Return to the oven and roast for another 8-10 minutes, until the edges are deeply caramelized and crispy, and the centers are tender when pierced with a fork.
  10. Remove from the oven and let the rings cool on the baking sheet for 2-3 minutes. Transfer to a serving platter, sprinkle with flaky sea salt and fresh herbs if desired, and serve warm.

Notes

For extra crispiness, after glazing and roasting, turn off the oven and leave the rings inside with the door cracked open for 2-3 minutes. Watch the last few minutes closely as maple syrup can burn quickly. If making a double batch, rotate baking sheets halfway through cooking.

Nutrition

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

Find it online: https://daintydine.com/crispy-maple-roasted-delicata-squash-rings-best-easy-side/