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Crispy Maple Roasted Acorn Squash Rings: Easy 20-Min Recipe

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These crispy maple roasted acorn squash rings are a quick and easy side dish that delivers a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. With a crispy exterior and tender interior, they’re a crowd-pleaser perfect for fall gatherings or weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium acorn squash
  • ¼ cup pure maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Fresh thyme (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Prepare the acorn squash: Using a sharp chef’s knife, cut off the stem end and bottom tip of each squash. Stand upright and slice crosswise into ½-inch (1.25 cm) thick rings. Remove seeds and stringy pulp from the center of each ring.
  3. Make the coating mixture: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, maple syrup, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
  4. Add the cornstarch: Sprinkle cornstarch over the maple mixture and whisk until no lumps remain.
  5. Coat the squash rings: Add the rings to the bowl and gently toss until each is evenly coated. Let sit for 2 minutes.
  6. Arrange on the baking sheet: Place rings in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, leaving at least ½ inch (1.25 cm) between each ring.
  7. Roast for 10 minutes: Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast until edges start to caramelize.
  8. Flip and brush with remaining glaze: Remove from oven, flip each ring, and brush with any remaining glaze.
  9. Roast for another 8-10 minutes: Return to oven and roast until golden brown, crispy on edges, and tender when pierced with a fork.
  10. Cool slightly and serve: Let rest on baking sheet for 2-3 minutes, then transfer to a platter. Garnish with fresh thyme if desired and serve warm.

Notes

Don’t skip the cornstarch—it creates a crispy crust. Slice rings evenly (½ inch thick) for consistent cooking. Do not peel the acorn squash; the skin is edible and helps hold the shape. Watch the last 5 minutes of roasting to prevent burning. For air fryer adaptation, cook at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway.

Nutrition

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

Find it online: https://gleamgulp.com/crispy-maple-roasted-acorn-squash-rings-easy-20-min-recipe/