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Cozy Maple Roasted Delicata Squash Rings: Easy Fall Side

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These cozy maple roasted delicata squash rings are a perfect fall side dish, featuring caramelized edges and tender centers with a hint of cayenne warmth. Quick to prepare with no peeling required, they’re elegant enough for Thanksgiving yet casual for a weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium delicata squash (about 1.5 pounds total)
  • 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Flaky sea salt for garnish (optional)
  • Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Wash the delicata squash well. Trim off both ends and slice crosswise into 1/2-inch thick rings. Scoop out seeds and stringy bits from each ring.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, olive oil, chopped thyme, kosher salt, and cayenne pepper until well combined.
  4. Place squash rings in a large bowl and pour the maple mixture over them. Use your hands to gently toss and coat each ring evenly. Let sit for 5 minutes if time allows.
  5. Arrange coated squash rings in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each ring to avoid steaming.
  6. Roast for 20 minutes, flipping each ring halfway through at the 10-minute mark, until edges are deep golden brown and centers are fork-tender.
  7. Optional: Switch oven to broil and cook for 2-3 minutes, watching carefully, until edges are slightly charred and crispy.
  8. Remove from oven and let rest on baking sheet for 2 minutes. Transfer to a serving platter and sprinkle with flaky sea salt and fresh thyme leaves if desired. Serve warm.

Notes

Don’t skip flipping the rings halfway through for even caramelization. Watch oven temperature as it may vary; check at 15 minutes if oven runs hot. Avoid crowding the pan to prevent steaming. Let rings rest for 2 minutes after roasting to firm up the caramelized coating. Reheat leftovers in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes for best texture.

Nutrition

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

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