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Best Maple Glazed Roasted Acorn Squash Rings Recipe

maple glazed roasted acorn squash rings - featured image

These maple glazed roasted acorn squash rings are a quick and easy side dish with crispy edges and tender centers, made from a happy accident that turned into a crowd-pleasing favorite.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large acorn squash (about 1.5 to 2 pounds)
  • 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
  • Optional: 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon or cayenne pepper
  • Optional: Fresh thyme or rosemary for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400Β°F (200Β°C).
  2. Wash the acorn squash and cut off the top and bottom ends to create flat surfaces. Slice crosswise into 1/2-inch thick rings. Remove seeds and stringy pulp from the center of each ring.
  3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together maple syrup, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Add cinnamon or cayenne if using.
  4. Add the squash rings to the bowl and toss gently until evenly coated. Let sit for 5 minutes.
  5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange rings in a single layer without overlapping. Pour any remaining glaze over the rings.
  6. Roast for 15 minutes on the middle rack.
  7. Remove from oven, flip each ring, and brush with pan juices or extra maple syrup.
  8. Roast for another 10 to 15 minutes until tender and caramelized. Watch closely during the last 5 minutes to prevent burning.
  9. Let rings cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. Transfer to a platter, garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and serve warm.

Notes

Cut rings evenly for consistent cooking. Don’t overcrowd the pan. Watch the last 5 minutes closely to prevent maple syrup from burning. Let rings rest for 5 minutes after roasting to set the glaze.

Nutrition

Keywords: maple glazed acorn squash, roasted acorn squash rings, fall side dish, easy vegetable recipe, vegan, gluten-free