Description
Crispy, caramelized delicata squash rings coated in a sweet maple glaze with a hint of cayenne. Ready in just 15 minutes, this easy side dish is perfect for fall gatherings and weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 medium delicata squash
- 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
- Flaky sea salt for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Wash the delicata squash well, pat dry, and trim off about ¼ inch from each end.
- Slice the squash crosswise into ½-inch thick rings. Use a small spoon to scoop out the seeds and stringy bits from the center of each ring.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, olive oil, kosher salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper until well combined.
- Add the squash rings to the bowl and toss gently until every ring is evenly coated.
- Arrange the coated squash rings in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each ring to avoid overcrowding.
- Roast for 12-15 minutes, flipping the rings halfway through (after about 7 minutes), until the edges are deep golden brown and caramelized and the centers are tender.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 2-3 minutes on the pan. Transfer to a serving platter and garnish with fresh thyme leaves and flaky sea salt if desired.
Notes
For best results, don’t overcrowd the baking sheet—use two pans if needed. Watch the maple syrup carefully as it can burn quickly. If using flaky sea salt as garnish, add it right before serving to maintain crunch. Leftover squash rings can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days; reheat in a 400°F oven for 3-5 minutes to restore crispiness.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About ½ of the recip
- Calories: 145
- Sugar: 12
- Sodium: 290
- Fat: 7
- Saturated Fat: 1
- Carbohydrates: 22
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 2
Keywords: delicata squash, maple roasted squash, crispy squash rings, fall side dish, easy vegetable recipe, 15-minute recipe, vegan, gluten-free