Description
Deliciously sweet and savory, this caramelized maple roasted delicata squash recipe transforms tender squash rings into a beautifully caramelized side dish. Roasted in avocado oil and drizzled with pure maple syrup, it's enhanced with a touch of salt and pepper, making it a perfect fall-inspired dish that can be enjoyed on its own or garnished with vegan goat cheese, pomegranate seeds, and fresh parsley for added color and flavor.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 delicata squash
- 2 tbsp avocado oil
- 2 tsp maple syrup
- ¼ tsp fine salt
- 1/16–1/8 tsp ground black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425˚F (220˚C) to ensure a hot environment for roasting the squash to caramelized perfection.
- Prepare the Squash: Remove the squash seeds by chopping the ends off the delicata squash. Without peeling, slice the squash into ½-inch thick rings and scrape out the seeds from each ring using a spoon.
- Arrange in Skillet: Place the squash rings evenly in a 12-inch cast iron skillet. If the rings don’t fit perfectly, cut a couple in half to maximize space and create an even layer.
- Coat with Oil and Syrup: Using your hands or a silicone brush, evenly coat the squash rings with the avocado oil and maple syrup. Then sprinkle them with fine salt and black pepper to taste.
- Roast the Squash: Roast the squash in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. After this, flip the rings carefully and roast for an additional 10 minutes until they are tender and caramelized.
- Serve: Serve the caramelized delicata squash immediately as a side dish. Optionally, garnish with vegan goat cheese, pomegranate seeds, and fresh parsley for added flavor and visual appeal.
Notes
- You can substitute avocado oil with olive oil for a more familiar flavor.
- Adjust maple syrup quantity for more or less sweetness depending on preference.
- For a richer taste, try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg before roasting.
- Use a cast iron skillet or any oven-safe baking dish to ensure even roasting and caramelization.
- This dish pairs well with grain bowls, salads, or as a side to roasted meats or plant-based mains.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
