Print

Crispy Maple Roasted Delicata Squash Rings: Easy Fall Recipe

crispy maple roasted delicata squash rings - featured image

These crispy maple roasted delicata squash rings are the perfect fall side dish. They are quick, easy, and made with simple ingredients, featuring caramelized edges and tender centers.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium delicata squash (about pounds total)
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1½ tablespoons pure maple syrup (Grade A dark amber preferred)
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt (Diamond Crystal preferred; reduce to ¼ teaspoon if using table salt)
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
  • Flaky sea salt (optional, for serving)
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (optional, for serving)
  • Red pepper flakes (optional, for serving)
  • ¼ cup toasted pecans or walnuts, chopped (optional, for serving)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
  3. Wash and dry the delicata squash thoroughly. Pat them completely dry with a clean kitchen towel.
  4. Slice off about ¼ inch from both ends of each squash.
  5. Cut the squash crosswise into rings about ½ inch thick. You should get about 8-10 rings per medium squash.
  6. Use a small spoon or your fingers to gently push out the seeds and stringy bits from each ring.
  7. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, maple syrup, kosher salt, black pepper, and garlic powder until emulsified.
  8. Place the squash rings in a large bowl. Pour the glaze over them and use your hands to gently toss and coat each ring evenly.
  9. Arrange the glazed rings in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, leaving at least ½ inch of space between each ring. Do not crowd the pan.
  10. Roast for 15 minutes. Do not open the oven door during this time.
  11. Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Use tongs or a spatula to carefully flip each ring over.
  12. Return the baking sheet to the oven and roast for another 10-15 minutes, until the edges are deep golden brown and the centers are tender when pierced with a fork.
  13. Let the rings rest on the baking sheet for 2 minutes to allow the caramelized edges to set.
  14. Transfer to a serving platter. If desired, sprinkle with flaky sea salt, fresh thyme leaves, red pepper flakes, or toasted pecans/walnuts while still warm.
  15. Serve immediately.

Notes

For best results, do not crowd the pan and ensure the squash rings are dry before glazing. The maple syrup can be reduced to 1 tablespoon for less sweetness. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in a 375°F oven for 5-7 minutes.

Nutrition

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