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Perfect Maple Roasted Delicata Squash with Pecans: An Easy Side Dish

maple roasted delicata squash - featured image
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This easy side dish features caramelized delicata squash with toasted pecans in a sweet maple glaze. Ready in 35 minutes with no peeling required, it’s perfect for weeknights or holiday entertaining.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium delicata squash (about 2 pounds total)
  • 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • ½ cup pecan halves (raw, unsalted)
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt (Diamond Crystal; reduce to ⅓ teaspoon if using Morton’s)
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
  • Flaky sea salt for finishing (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Position the rack in the middle of the oven.
  2. Wash the delicata squash thoroughly. Cut off both ends, slice in half lengthwise, and scoop out seeds and stringy pulp.
  3. Place each half cut-side down and slice crosswise into ½-inch thick half-moons.
  4. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together maple syrup, olive oil, kosher salt, black pepper, and cinnamon (if using).
  5. Add the sliced squash to the bowl and toss gently until every piece is coated.
  6. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the squash slices in a single layer, not overlapping.
  7. Roast for 15 minutes.
  8. Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Sprinkle pecan halves evenly over the squash and toss gently with a spatula. Spread back into a single layer.
  9. Roast for another 10-12 minutes, until squash is tender when pierced with a fork and pecans are toasted and fragrant.
  10. Remove from oven and let rest on the pan for 2-3 minutes. Transfer to a serving platter. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

Don’t skip the first 15-minute solo roast to prevent pecans from burning. Cut squash evenly for consistent cooking. Use a rimmed baking sheet to catch sticky maple drips. Let squash cool on the pan for a few minutes before moving to prevent tearing. For leftovers, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days; reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes. Not recommended for freezing.

Nutrition

Keywords: roasted delicata squash, maple roasted squash, delicata squash with pecans, easy fall side dish, vegetarian side dish, gluten-free side dish

Find it online: https://cookyep.com/perfect-maple-roasted-delicata-squash-with-pecans-an-easy-side-dish/