Pin It Tender delicata squash rings roasted to perfection, finished with a sweet maple glaze and crunchy pistachios—a delightful, colorful side or appetizer.
I first made these squash rings for a fall dinner with friends, and they quickly became a requested staple. The blend of warm maple and crunchy pistachios wins over even skeptical vegetable eaters.
Ingredients
- Delicata squash: 2 medium
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
- Pure maple syrup: 2 tablespoons
- Sea salt: 1 teaspoon
- Freshly ground black pepper: ½ teaspoon
- Ground cinnamon: ¼ teaspoon
- Shelled pistachios (roughly chopped): ¼ cup
- Fresh parsley (chopped, optional): 1 tablespoon
Instructions
- Prep the oven:
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Slice the squash:
- Wash delicata squash thoroughly. Cut off the ends, then slice into ½-inch rings. Scoop out the seeds from each ring.
- Season the rings:
- In a large bowl, toss squash rings with olive oil, maple syrup, salt, pepper, and cinnamon until coated.
- Arrange and bake:
- Place rings in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and tender.
- Finish and serve:
- Transfer baked rings to a platter. Sprinkle with pistachios and parsley immediately. Serve warm.
Pin It The first time I served these to my family at Thanksgiving, my kids loved helping arrange the rings and scatter the pistachios on top. It has now become a fun, colorful tradition for us.
Required Tools
You'll need a sharp knife, spoon for scooping seeds, large bowl for mixing, baking sheet, and parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Allergen Information
This recipe contains tree nuts (pistachios). Be sure to check ingredient labels if allergies are a concern.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories: 170, Total Fat: 9 g, Carbohydrates: 23 g, Protein: 3 g
Pin It These squash rings are irresistible out of the oven. With their stunning golden color and nutty topping, they're sure to brighten any table.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How do you prepare delicata squash for baking?
Slice the squash into half-inch rings and scoop out the seeds before coating with oil, maple syrup, and spices.
- → Can I substitute pistachios with other nuts?
Yes, pecans or walnuts can be used as alternatives for a different crunch and flavor.
- → What temperature is best for roasting delicata squash rings?
Roasting at 425°F (220°C) ensures the rings become tender and caramelized without drying out.
- → Is it better to toast the pistachios before adding?
Lightly toasting pistachios enhances their flavor and adds extra crunch to the finished dish.
- → What spices complement the maple glaze on squash rings?
A touch of cinnamon along with sea salt and black pepper balances sweetness and adds warm depth.