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Perfect Maple Glazed Roasted Delicata Squash: Easy Side Dish

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This maple glazed roasted delicata squash is a simple, forgiving side dish that comes together in under 35 minutes. The maple syrup caramelizes on the edges of the tender squash, creating crispy, candy-like bits that make it an irresistible fall favorite.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium delicata squash (about 1.5 pounds total)
  • 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt (Diamond Crystal recommended; reduce to ¼ teaspoon if using table salt)
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional but recommended)
  • 4–5 fresh thyme sprigs (optional)
  • Flaky sea salt for finishing (optional, e.g., Maldon)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
  2. Wash the delicata squash thoroughly under running water and pat dry. Trim off both ends (about ¼ inch from each side) and discard. Cut each squash in half lengthwise, then scoop out the seeds and stringy pulp with a spoon. Place each half cut-side down and slice into half-moon shapes about ½ inch thick. Try to keep slices uniform in thickness.
  3. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the squash slices with 1 tablespoon olive oil, ½ teaspoon kosher salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, and ½ teaspoon cinnamon (if using). Toss gently with your hands until every piece is coated.
  4. Arrange the squash pieces in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Roast for 15 minutes at 400°F (200°C). The squash should be starting to brown on the edges and feel tender when pierced with a fork.
  5. While the squash roasts, make the maple glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons maple syrup and 1 tablespoon olive oil.
  6. Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Using a pastry brush, brush the maple glaze generously over each piece of squash. Flip each piece over and brush the other side as well.
  7. Return the baking sheet to the oven and roast for another 10-12 minutes, until the squash is deeply golden with dark caramelized edges and tender when pierced with a fork.
  8. Remove from the oven. If using fresh thyme, scatter the sprigs over the hot squash. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt if desired. Let the squash rest on the pan for 2-3 minutes before transferring to a serving platter.

Notes

Do not skip the parchment paper to prevent the maple syrup from sticking. Cut uniform pieces for even cooking. Do not overcrowd the pan to ensure caramelization instead of steaming. For a less sweet version, reduce maple syrup to 2 tablespoons and add an extra tablespoon of olive oil. The flavors deepen after a day in the refrigerator.

Nutrition

Keywords: roasted delicata squash, maple glazed squash, fall side dish, easy roasted squash, vegan side dish, gluten-free side dish

Find it online: https://lunafeast.com/perfect-maple-glazed-roasted-delicata-squash-easy-side-dish/