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Perfect Maple Roasted Delicata Squash with Feta

maple roasted delicata squash with feta - featured image

This perfect maple roasted delicata squash with feta is a quick and easy side dish that comes together in about 30 minutes. The maple syrup helps the squash caramelize at a lower temperature, while the feta adds a sharp, briny counterpoint for a delicious balance of sweet and salty.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium delicata squash (about 1.5 pounds total)
  • 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 4 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
  • 45 sprigs fresh thyme
  • 1 small sprig fresh rosemary, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt (plus more to taste)
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (plus more for finishing)
  • Optional garnish: pomegranate seeds, toasted pecans, or balsamic glaze

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 and pat dry. Cut off both ends, then stand upright and slice in half lengthwise. Scoop out seeds and stringy pulp. Slice each half into half-moon shapes about ½ inch thick.
  3. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together maple syrup, olive oil, kosher salt, and black pepper.
  4. Add sliced squash to the bowl and toss until every piece is evenly coated.
  5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper (optional). Spread squash pieces in a single layer, ensuring they don’t overlap. Tuck fresh thyme sprigs between the squash pieces.
  6. Roast for 15 minutes. Do not open the oven door during this time.
  7. After 15 minutes, remove the baking sheet and flip each piece of squash. Sprinkle chopped rosemary over the squash. Return to the oven and roast for another 10-15 minutes, until tender when pierced with a fork and edges are caramelized.
  8. Remove from oven and sprinkle crumbled feta evenly over the hot squash. Let sit for 2-3 minutes to soften the feta.
  9. Transfer to a serving platter. Discard thyme sprigs. Add a final crack of black pepper and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

Don’t overcrowd the pan to ensure proper caramelization. Use room temperature maple syrup for even coating. Add feta right when squash comes out of the oven for best texture. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days; reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: delicata squash, maple roasted squash, roasted delicata squash, feta, easy side dish, fall recipe, vegetarian, gluten-free