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Crispy Maple Roasted Delicata Rings: Easy 30-Minute Recipe

crispy maple roasted delicata rings - featured image

These crispy maple roasted delicata rings are a quick and easy side dish or snack, featuring caramelized edges and a sweet maple glaze. Ready in under 30 minutes, they’re perfect for fall gatherings and weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium delicata squash (about 1.5 pounds total)
  • 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 45 fresh thyme sprigs (optional)
  • Flaky sea salt (for garnish, optional)
  • Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
  2. Wash the delicata squash thoroughly, pat dry, and cut off both ends (about ½ inch from each tip). Slice crosswise into rings about ½ inch thick.
  3. Using a small spoon or your fingers, remove the seeds from the center of each ring.
  4. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
  5. Add the squash rings to the bowl and gently toss with your hands until evenly coated.
  6. Arrange the coated rings in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each ring. Tuck fresh thyme sprigs between the rings if using.
  7. Roast for 12 minutes, then flip each ring using tongs or a spatula.
  8. Roast for another 10-12 minutes, until edges are deep golden brown and centers are tender.
  9. Remove from oven and let cool on the pan for 2-3 minutes. Transfer to a serving platter and sprinkle with flaky sea salt and fresh herbs if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

Don’t skip flipping the rings for even caramelization. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure crispiness. Let the rings rest for 2-3 minutes after roasting to enhance crispness. For a spicier version, double the cayenne pepper. For a savory version, replace smoked paprika and cayenne with dried rosemary and oregano. For an air fryer method, cook at 375°F for 8-10 minutes, shaking halfway through.

Nutrition

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