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As the leaves change colors and the air turns crisp, the culinary world welcomes a bounty of seasonal ingredients that embody the essence of autumn. Among these, acorn squash stands out as a versatile and flavorful choice, perfect for elevating any meal with its unique taste and texture. One of the best ways to embrace the warm flavors of the season is through the delightful recipe for Maple Roasted Acorn Squash Rings. This dish is a harmonious blend of rich, buttery squash complemented by the natural sweetness of maple syrup and a medley of warm spices. It captures the spirit of fall and brings a hint of sweetness to your table, making it an excellent addition to holiday feasts or a cozy weeknight dinner.

Maple Roasted Acorn Squash Rings

Embrace the flavors of fall with Maple Roasted Acorn Squash Rings! This simple and delicious recipe showcases the natural sweetness of acorn squash paired with rich maple syrup and warm spices, creating a comforting dish perfect for any autumn meal. Packed with nutrients and easy to prepare, these roasted rings make a stunning side for holiday feasts or a tasty vegetarian entrée. Discover how to make this seasonal favorite, and enjoy the essence of autumn in every bite!
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Ingredients
  

1 medium-sized acorn squash

3 tablespoons pure maple syrup

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)

1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

Crumbled feta cheese for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). To simplify cleanup, line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

    Prepare the Acorn Squash: Carefully cut the acorn squash in half from top to bottom, then use a spoon to scoop out the seeds. Slice each half into rings, aiming for about 1-inch thickness. You should yield approximately 8-10 rings.

      Make the Maple Glaze: In a small mixing bowl, combine the maple syrup, olive oil, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, black pepper, and chopped rosemary. Whisk the mixture thoroughly until all ingredients are well blended.

        Coat the Rings: Arrange the acorn squash rings on the prepared baking sheet. Generously drizzle the maple glaze over each ring, ensuring they are fully coated. Use a brush or the back of a spoon to spread the glaze evenly if needed.

          Roast the Squash: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the squash for 25-30 minutes. Flip the rings halfway through cooking to promote even caramelization. The squash should be tender and have a golden, slightly caramelized exterior.

            Add Nuts: If you're including chopped pecans or walnuts, sprinkle them over the squash rings during the last 5 minutes of roasting to allow them to lightly toast and enhance their flavor.

              Serve: After roasting, remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the squash cool slightly. For an added touch, garnish with crumbled feta cheese before serving. Enjoy warm as a delightful side dish or as a tasty, vegetarian entrée.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 40 minutes | 4 servings