Maple Roast Delicata Squash is the best way to enjoy this winter squash variety. Sure, butternut squash and acorn squash are equally mild in sweet flavor make an excellent option for roasting. However, when delicata squash makes their way into our fall and winter CSA boxes, this is our favorite way to enjoy them.
This recipe is super simple and is a wonderful way to roast the entire vegetable since the skin of delicata squash is edible. It's edible skin roasted in a bit of olive oil and maple syrup creates a sweet flavor and tender flesh that works for any dish. Scroll for the recipe to make the best delicata squash for the season.
Ingredients for the Maple Roast Delicata Squash
This squash is ready in 20 minutes and uses just a handful of ingredients:
- Delicata Squash: The star of the recipe for sure. This type of winter squash has a mild flavor and roasts beautifully given its thin skin is edible and you don't have to peel prior to roasting. If you want to use a different squash with this same roasting method, acorn squash, cubed butternut squash, and even sugar pumpkin are great options.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Use the best quality olive oil to add good quality fats and flavor to our dishes, including this roast winter squash. I love California Olive Ranch for a number of reasons both for flavor and their mission and vision.
- Maple Syrup: We create a bit of caramelization with the maple syrup combined with the olive oil during roasting. The maple syrup also adds a hint of sweetness that works well here.
- Ground Cinnamon: I love the added flavor of this spice to the squash and it's a great addition to this roasted delicata squash recipe.
- Kosher Salt and Ground Black Pepper to Taste
Easy Preparation for the Maple Roast Delicata Squash
The prep for this Maple Roast Delicata Squash is minimal but yields big impact. First, preheat oven to 400 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. To prepare the squash, cut in half along the vertical and remove seeds. Cut squash into slices, about an inch thick, and place in a bowl. Drizzle squash with the olive oil, maple syrup, cinnamon, and generous pinches of salt and pepper. Toss together to combine and then lay out onto the prepared baking sheet. Roast about 15-20 minutes, turning once, until fork tender. Allow to cool slightly before serving or storing. This salad is my favorite way to enjoy it after roasting.
More on Winter Squash
For more on this and other winter squashes, including the best substitutes for delicata squash, check out my blog post on five substitutes for delicata squash.
Maple Roast Delicata Squash
Ingredients
- 2 medium delicata squash
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- kosher salt and ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. To prepare the squash, cut in half along the vertical and remove seeds.
- Cut squash into slices, about an inch thick, and place in a bowl. Drizzle squash with the olive oil, maple syrup, cinnamon, and generous pinches of salt and pepper. Toss together to combine and then lay out in an even layer onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Roast about 15-20 minutes, turning once, until fork tender. Allow to cool slightly before serving or storing.
