Sweet Balsamic Roasted Delicata Squash Recipe

Ingredients

Squash

• 2 pounds delicata squash (2 medium squash)

Glaze

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1/2 tablespoon pure maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1/8 teaspoon paprika
• 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/8 teaspoon dried thyme (or substitute rosemary)
• Pinch cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and line a 13×18 inch baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Wash and dry the delicata squash, then trim off both ends carefully.
3. Stand each squash upright and slice it lengthwise from top to bottom. Scoop out and discard the seeds from each half.
4. Place the squash halves cut side down on a cutting board and slice them into 3/4-inch thick rings or half-moons.
5. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, brown sugar, maple syrup, balsamic vinegar, salt, cinnamon, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, dried thyme, and cayenne pepper if using. Taste and adjust sweetness or tanginess as desired.
6. Add the sliced squash rings to the bowl with glaze and gently toss to coat all pieces evenly.
7. Arrange the squash slices on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer without overlapping, reserving any leftover glaze. Bake for 15 minutes.
8. Remove the baking sheet, brush the tops of the squash slices with the reserved glaze, then flip each piece over. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes or until tender and caramelized to your liking.

Notes

• Let roasted squash cool completely before storing to prevent sogginess.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• To freeze, flash-freeze slices on a baking sheet for 1-2 hours, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 4 months.
• Reheat frozen or thawed squash in the oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until hot.
• For a spicier glaze, increase cayenne pepper or add smoked paprika.
• Substitute dried rosemary for thyme if preferred.