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Wholesome Roasted Delicata Squash Rings with Easy Maple Butter

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These roasted delicata squash rings are caramelized with a maple butter glaze, creating a sweet and savory side dish that even squash skeptics love. Quick to prepare with no peeling required, they’re perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday feasts.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium delicata squash (about 1.5 pounds total)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup (Grade A dark amber preferred)
  • ¼ teaspoon cinnamon (Saigon cinnamon preferred)
  • Pinch of flaky sea salt (for finishing)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper.
  2. Wash the delicata squash thoroughly. Cut off both ends (about ¼ inch from each tip). Stand the squash upright on one flat end and slice it in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and stringy bits.
  3. Lay each squash half cut-side down on your cutting board. Slice crosswise into ½-inch thick half-rings.
  4. Place the squash rings in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if using. Toss gently with your hands until every ring is coated.
  5. Spread the rings in a single layer on your prepared sheet pan, giving them space to avoid overcrowding.
  6. Roast for 15 minutes.
  7. While the squash roasts, make the maple butter: In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, combine the butter, maple syrup, and cinnamon. Stir constantly until the butter is melted and everything is combined—about 2 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
  8. Remove the pan from the oven. Using tongs, carefully flip each ring over. Brush the tops generously with the maple butter mixture. Reserve about a third of the glaze for the final touch.
  9. Return the pan to the oven and roast for 10-12 more minutes, until the rings are golden brown and caramelized at the edges and fork-tender.
  10. Transfer the roasted delicata squash rings to a serving platter. Drizzle with the remaining maple butter glaze. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt and a tiny pinch of cinnamon if desired. Serve hot or warm.

Notes

For a vegan version, swap the butter with a plant-based alternative or coconut oil. The maple syrup can be replaced with honey or agave. If watching sugar intake, reduce maple syrup to 1 tablespoon. You can slice the squash and make the glaze up to a day ahead. Store rings in the fridge and glaze at room temperature; add about 5 minutes to cooking time if starting from cold. Don’t skip the flipping step for even caramelization. Use parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Nutrition

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

Find it online: https://dinadishes.com/wholesome-roasted-delicata-squash-rings-with-easy-maple-butter/