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Baked Delicata Squash Pistachios

This dish features tender delicata squash sliced into rings and baked to a golden perfection. The squash is evenly coated in a sweet, aromatic blend of maple syrup, olive oil, sea salt, black pepper, and cinnamon, enhancing its natural flavors. Once baked, it's finished with a crunchy pistachio topping that adds texture and a delightful nutty contrast. Ideal as a vibrant side or appetizer, this flavorful combination balances sweet and savory notes with a touch of warmth from spices.

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Updated on Mon, 17 Nov 2025 13:22:00 GMT
Golden baked delicata squash rings, drizzled with maple syrup and sprinkled with pistachios. Save
Golden baked delicata squash rings, drizzled with maple syrup and sprinkled with pistachios. | gingertaste.com

Tender delicata squash rings roasted to perfection, finished with a sweet maple glaze and crunchy pistachios—a delightful, colorful side or appetizer.

I made this for a fall dinner party and guests raved about the unique combination of maple and pistachio. The vibrant squash rings added beautiful color to the table, making it one of our most requested sides.

Ingredients

  • Delicata squash: 2 medium
  • Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
  • Pure maple syrup: 2 tablespoons
  • Sea salt: 1 teaspoon
  • Freshly ground black pepper: ½ teaspoon
  • Ground cinnamon: ¼ teaspoon
  • Shelled pistachios: ¼ cup, roughly chopped
  • Fresh parsley: 1 tablespoon, chopped (optional)

Instructions

Prep the oven:
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Prepare the squash:
Wash delicata squash thoroughly. Cut off ends, slice into ½-inch rings, and scoop out seeds from each ring.
Toss the rings:
In a large bowl, coat squash rings with olive oil, maple syrup, salt, pepper, and cinnamon.
Arrange and bake:
Place rings in a single layer on baking sheet. Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and tender.
Finish and serve:
Transfer to serving platter; immediately sprinkle with pistachios and parsley. Serve warm.
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| gingertaste.com

My family loves gathering for autumn dinners and this squash recipe has become a seasonal staple. We enjoy making it together, and everyone, from kids to adults, helps with slicing and seasoning.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these squash rings with roasted meats, hearty grains, or use as a unique holiday side dish. Their sweet-savory glaze complements many flavors on the table.

Make It Your Own

Substitute walnuts or pecans for pistachios to vary the nutty topping, or add extra herbs like thyme for a fresh twist. Toasting the nuts before sprinkling adds more crunch.

Nutrition Facts

Each serving provides about 170 calories, 9 g fat, 23 g carbohydrates, and 3 g protein, making it a balanced side fitting many dietary needs.

Close-up of baked delicata squash rings: tender, sweet, and perfectly caramelized with a lovely glaze. Save
Close-up of baked delicata squash rings: tender, sweet, and perfectly caramelized with a lovely glaze. | gingertaste.com

Enjoy these vibrant delicata squash rings as an easy, impressive side—perfect for weeknights or festive gatherings. Try leftovers in a salad the next day.

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ What is the best way to prepare delicata squash for baking?

Cut off the ends, slice into ½-inch rings, and scoop out the seeds with a spoon before seasoning.

→ Can pistachios be substituted with other nuts?

Yes, pecans or walnuts can be used as a crunchy alternative to pistachios.

→ How do I achieve a crispy texture on the squash rings?

Coat the rings evenly with olive oil and maple syrup, then bake at 425°F, flipping halfway for even browning.

→ Is it necessary to toast the pistachios before adding?

Toasting pistachios lightly enhances their crunch and flavor but is optional.

→ What flavors does ground cinnamon add to this dish?

Cinnamon introduces a warm, slightly sweet spice that complements the maple glaze and squash flavor.

Baked Delicata Squash Pistachios

Tender squash rings glazed with maple and topped with crunchy pistachios for a flavorful, colorful side dish.

Setup duration
15 min
Heat application time
25 min
Complete duration
40 min
Created by Olivia Harper


Complexity Easy

Heritage American

Output 4 Portions

Nutrition specifications Plant-Based, No dairy, Without gluten

Components

Vegetables

01 2 medium delicata squash

Glaze & Seasoning

01 2 tablespoons olive oil
02 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
03 1 teaspoon sea salt
04 ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
05 ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon

Topping

01 ¼ cup shelled pistachios, roughly chopped
02 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Preparation steps

Phase 01

Preheat oven and prepare tray: Set the oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Phase 02

Prepare squash rings: Wash the delicata squash, trim the ends, then cut into half-inch rings. Scoop out seeds from each ring.

Phase 03

Coat squash: In a large bowl, combine the squash rings with olive oil, maple syrup, sea salt, black pepper, and cinnamon until fully coated.

Phase 04

Arrange for roasting: Lay the squash rings flat in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.

Phase 05

Roast squash: Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping the rings halfway through, until tender and golden.

Phase 06

Finish and serve: Transfer the roasted rings to a serving platter and immediately sprinkle with chopped pistachios and parsley if desired. Serve warm.

Necessary tools

  • Sharp knife
  • Spoon
  • Large bowl
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper

Potential allergens

Review each component for potential allergens and seek professional healthcare advice if you're uncertain about ingredients.
  • Contains tree nuts (pistachios). Verify labels for potential cross-contamination.

Nutrient breakdown (per portion)

These values are provided as estimates only and shouldn't replace professional medical guidance.
  • Energy Content: 170
  • Fats: 9 g
  • Carbohydrates: 23 g
  • Proteins: 3 g