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Cozy Maple Roasted Delicata Squash Rings Recipe

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These Maple Roasted Delicata Squash Rings are a simple, delicious fall side dish with caramelized edges and tender centers, made with just a few pantry staples. Perfect for weeknights or holiday gatherings, they prove that sometimes the best recipes come from happy accidents.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium delicata squash (about 1.5 lbs total)
  • 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt (Diamond Crystal; reduce to ½ teaspoon if using fine table salt)
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 4–5 sprigs fresh thyme (optional; or 1 teaspoon dried)
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Flaky sea salt (for finishing, e.g., Maldon)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a rack in the middle position. Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Wash the delicata squash thoroughly under cool water and pat dry. Trim off both ends (about ¼ inch from each tip). Do not peel.
  3. Slice the squash crosswise into ½-inch thick rings. Remove seeds from the center using your fingers or a spoon. Aim for uniform thickness for even cooking.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, olive oil, kosher salt, black pepper, and cayenne (if using) until emulsified.
  5. Add the squash rings to the bowl and toss gently with your hands or a spatula until every ring is coated. Let sit for 2-3 minutes to absorb the marinade.
  6. Arrange the squash rings in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not overlapping. Scatter the thyme sprigs around the pan, tucking a few under rings if possible.
  7. Roast for 15 minutes without opening the oven door.
  8. Remove the pan from the oven and carefully flip each ring using tongs. Return to the oven and roast for another 10-15 minutes, until edges are deeply caramelized and centers are fork-tender.
  9. Remove from the oven and let rest on the pan for 2 minutes. Transfer to a serving platter, discarding thyme sprigs if desired. Sprinkle immediately with flaky sea salt. Serve hot, warm, or at room temperature.

Notes

For extra-crispy edges, turn on the broiler for the last 1-2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning. Do not skip the resting step after tossing with the maple mixture—it allows flavors to penetrate. Spacing the rings in a single layer is crucial to avoid steaming. If your oven runs hot, check at 20 minutes; if cool, you may need an extra 5 minutes. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days; reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes or in an air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes. Do not freeze.

Nutrition

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

Find it online: https://tastytuck.com/cozy-maple-roasted-delicata-squash-rings-recipe/