If you're looking to bring a touch of sweetness and warmth to your dinner table, this Maple Glazed Delicata Squash is just the ticket. With its natural sweetness and tender texture, delicata squash pairs beautifully with maple syrup and spices for a side dish that feels both comforting and a little bit fancy.
The star of the show is the delicata squash, which has a tender, edible skin and a slightly sweet, nutty flavor. Olive oil helps the squash slices roast to perfection, adding a subtle richness. The pure maple syrup brings a lovely sweetness that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. We use sea salt and black pepper to enhance all those natural flavors. Ground cinnamon adds a warm, spicy note that complements the sweetness perfectly. Finally, fresh parsley gives a pop of color and a fresh, herbal finish.
This maple glazed delicata squash is a versatile side dish. It pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken or turkey, making it a great choice for Thanksgiving or a Sunday roast. It's also delightful alongside a hearty grain salad or a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the sweetness.
First things first, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures your squash will roast beautifully and caramelize just right. While the oven heats up, grab your delicata squashes. Slice each one in half lengthwise. Scoop out the seeds with a spoon — a sturdy tablespoon works great for this. Then, slice the squash into half-inch thick pieces. Remember, you don’t need to peel the delicata, so just leave that pretty skin on.
In a large bowl, toss your sliced squash with the olive oil, salt, pepper, and cinnamon. Make sure each piece is nicely coated. Spread them out in a single layer on a baking sheet. You want them to roast, not steam, so try not to overcrowd the pan.
Roast the squash for about 15 minutes. Then, pull them out and give them a good drizzle of maple syrup. Pop them back in the oven for another 10-15 minutes. You’re looking for tender, caramelized slices with a bit of golden color.
Once they're done, sprinkle the roasted squash with the chopped fresh parsley for a hit of freshness and serve them up warm.