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Perfect Maple Roasted Delicata Squash with Crunchy Pepitas

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This maple roasted delicata squash with crunchy pepitas is a quick and easy side dish that’s perfect for fall. The squash is sliced into rings, tossed with a maple glaze, and roasted until caramelized, then topped with toasted pepitas for a satisfying crunch.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium delicata squash (about 1.5 lbs total)
  • 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • ⅓ cup raw pepitas (hulled pumpkin seeds)
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
  • Pinch of flaky sea salt
  • Fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs (for garnish, optional)
  • Drizzle of balsamic glaze (for garnish, optional)
  • Crumbled goat cheese or feta (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
  2. Wash the delicata squash well. Trim off the stem and blossom ends. Slice the squash in half lengthwise, then use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and stringy pulp. Slice each half crosswise into ½-inch thick rings.
  3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, maple syrup, kosher salt, black pepper, and cayenne (if using).
  4. Add the squash rings to the bowl with the glaze. Gently toss until every ring is coated.
  5. Arrange the squash rings in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not overlapping.
  6. Roast for 15 minutes. The bottoms should be golden and starting to caramelize.
  7. Carefully flip each ring. In a small bowl, toss the pepitas with the smoked paprika, garlic powder, and a pinch of flaky salt. Sprinkle the seasoned pepitas evenly over the squash rings.
  8. Roast for another 10-12 minutes, until the squash is tender when pierced with a fork and the edges are deep golden brown. If the pepitas are browning too quickly, tent the pan loosely with foil.
  9. Remove from the oven and let the squash rest on the pan for 2 minutes. Transfer to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary, balsamic glaze, or crumbled goat cheese if desired.
  10. Serve immediately.

Notes

For best caramelization, do not overcrowd the pan. Pat the squash dry after washing to prevent steaming. The pepitas can be toasted separately in a dry skillet if you prefer. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days; reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes.

Nutrition

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

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