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Kid-Friendly Roasted Acorn Squash Rings with Maple Butter

roasted acorn squash rings - featured image
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These roasted acorn squash rings are tender, caramelized, and glazed with a sweet maple butter. A quick and easy side dish that even picky eaters will love, perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium acorn squash (about 2 pounds total)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon black pepper (optional)
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt (for glaze)
  • Fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs (optional garnish)
  • Toasted pecans or walnuts, chopped (optional garnish)
  • Pomegranate seeds (optional garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
  2. Prepare the squash: Using a sharp chef’s knife, cut off the stem and bottom of each acorn squash so they sit flat. Slice each squash crosswise into rings about 1/2-inch thick. Use a melon baller or spoon to scoop out the seeds and stringy pulp from the center of each ring.
  3. Season the rings: Place the squash rings in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle with cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper (if using). Toss gently with your hands to coat evenly.
  4. Arrange the seasoned rings in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each ring.
  5. Roast for 15 minutes. Remove the pan, flip each ring with a spatula, and roast for another 10-15 minutes until tender and golden brown.
  6. While the squash roasts, make the maple butter: In a small saucepan, combine butter, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Warm over low heat, stirring occasionally, until melted and smooth. Do not let it boil.
  7. When the squash rings are done, let them cool on the pan for 2 minutes. Brush each ring generously with the warm maple butter, or drizzle it over the top.
  8. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh thyme, chopped nuts, or pomegranate seeds if desired.

Notes

For extra caramelization, after glazing, broil the rings for 1-2 minutes. Watch carefully to prevent burning. To make dairy-free, substitute butter with coconut oil or plant-based butter. For a lower-sugar version, reduce maple syrup to 1 tablespoon.

Nutrition

Keywords: roasted acorn squash, maple butter, kid-friendly, fall side dish, easy vegetable recipe

Find it online: https://lucastable.com/kid-friendly-roasted-acorn-squash-rings-with-maple-butter/