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Easy Kid-Friendly Maple Roasted Delicata Squash Rings

maple roasted delicata squash rings - featured image
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These maple roasted delicata squash rings are a quick, easy, and kid-friendly side dish that turns a simple vegetable into a caramelized, sweet-savory treat. With just five ingredients and about 30 minutes, they’re perfect for busy weeknights and picky eaters.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 medium delicata squash (about 1 to 1.5 pounds)
  • 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
  • Pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs (optional)
  • Flaky sea salt for finishing (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a sheet pan with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
  2. Wash the delicata squash thoroughly and pat dry. No need to peel.
  3. Trim about ¼ inch from both ends of the squash.
  4. Slice the squash crosswise into ½-inch thick rings.
  5. Use a spoon to gently push out the seeds and stringy pulp from each ring.
  6. In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Add cinnamon if using.
  7. Arrange the rings in a single layer on the prepared sheet pan, not touching.
  8. Brush the top of each ring generously with the maple mixture. Reserve about half for the other side.
  9. Roast for 12 minutes.
  10. Remove the pan from the oven. Carefully flip each ring using a metal spatula.
  11. Brush the second side with the remaining maple mixture.
  12. Roast for another 10 to 14 minutes, until edges are deep golden brown and caramelized, and rings are tender when pierced with a fork.
  13. Let the rings rest for 2 minutes. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt if desired.
  14. Transfer to a serving platter and serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

Don’t skip the parchment paper to avoid sticky cleanup. Cut rings evenly for uniform cooking. Watch the last few minutes closely to prevent burning. For extra crispiness, sprinkle a tiny pinch of sugar over the rings after brushing the second side. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days; reheat in a 350°F oven for 5 to 7 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: delicata squash, maple roasted, kid-friendly, easy side dish, fall recipe, roasted squash rings

Find it online: https://junomeals.com/easy-kid-friendly-maple-roasted-delicata-squash-rings/