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Easy Maple-Glazed Delicata Squash Rings Recipe

maple-glazed delicata squash rings - featured image

These Maple-Glazed Delicata Squash Rings are a quick and easy side dish that’s perfect for hosting. With a sweet maple glaze and a subtle hint of cayenne, they’re tender, caramelized, and absolutely irresistible.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium Delicata squash (about pounds total)
  • 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
  • ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Optional garnish: fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
  2. Wash the Delicata squash thoroughly, pat dry, and slice off the stem and bottom tip. Cut crosswise into ½-inch (1.25 cm) thick rings. Scoop out seeds and stringy pulp from the center of each ring.
  3. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine maple syrup and olive oil. Whisk and bring to a gentle simmer. Let bubble for about 1 minute until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and stir in salt, black pepper, and cayenne.
  4. Place squash rings in a large mixing bowl. Pour warm glaze over them and toss gently until every ring is coated. Let sit for 2-3 minutes.
  5. Arrange rings in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each ring.
  6. Roast for 15 minutes, then flip each ring using tongs or a spatula.
  7. Roast for another 10-12 minutes until tender and edges are deep golden brown with caramelized spots. Total roasting time: 25-27 minutes.
  8. Remove from oven and let cool on the pan for 2-3 minutes. Transfer to a serving platter and garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

Don’t skip the glaze reduction for best results. For thicker rings, add 2-3 minutes to roasting time. Make ahead: slice squash and make glaze up to 24 hours in advance. Reheat in a 375°F oven for 5-7 minutes or air fryer at 375°F for 3-4 minutes. Avoid microwave.

Nutrition

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