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Crispy Maple Roasted Delicata Squash Rings

crispy maple roasted delicata squash rings - featured image

These crispy maple roasted delicata squash rings are the perfect fall side dish. With a light, crunchy coating and a sweet maple glaze, they’re quick, easy, and absolutely delicious.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium delicata squash
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup almond flour
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon melted coconut oil or butter
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
  • Fresh thyme or rosemary for garnish
  • Flaky sea salt for garnish
  • Optional: balsamic glaze or toasted pecans

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425ยฐF (220ยฐC). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
  2. Wash the delicata squash thoroughly. Cut off both ends (about 1/4 inch from each tip). Slice the squash crosswise into 1/2-inch thick rings. Use a small spoon or your fingers to scoop out the seeds and stringy bits from the center of each ring.
  3. In a large bowl, toss the squash rings with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
  4. In a separate shallow bowl, whisk together the almond flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne (if using).
  5. Working one at a time, dip each squash ring into the coating mixture, pressing gently to help it adhere. Shake off any excess. Place the coated rings on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, making sure they don’t touch.
  6. Roast the rings for 15 minutes. They should be starting to turn golden on the bottom. Use tongs to carefully flip each ring. Roast for another 10 minutes.
  7. While the rings are roasting, whisk together the maple syrup, melted coconut oil (or butter), cinnamon, and nutmeg in a small bowl. Set aside.
  8. After the second 10-minute roast, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Using a pastry brush or a spoon, brush or drizzle the maple glaze over each ring. Return the sheet to the oven and roast for another 5-7 minutes, until the glaze is bubbly and caramelized.
  9. Remove from the oven and let the rings cool on the baking sheet for 2-3 minutes. Transfer to a serving platter, sprinkle with fresh thyme or rosemary, and finish with a pinch of flaky sea salt.

Notes

Don’t skip the cornstarchโ€”it’s key for crunch. Space rings out on the baking sheet to avoid steaming. Watch the glaze carefully in the last 5-7 minutes to prevent burning. You can prep the coated rings up to 24 hours in advance and store in the fridge.

Nutrition

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