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Hasselback Butternut Squash with Maple Glaze: A Show-Stopping Vegan Holiday Side

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Looking for a holiday side dish that’s elegant, delicious, and plant-based? This Hasselback Butternut Squash with Maple Glaze checks all the boxes. With its beautiful golden slices, hints of fresh herbs, and festive pops of pomegranate, it’s a true centerpiece that brings warmth and flavor to any table.

Ingredients

Scale

  • 1 large butternut squash, halved lengthwise, seeds removed, and peeled

  • Olive oil, for brushing

  • Salt, to taste

  • Fresh thyme and/or sage sprigs

  • ¼ cup olive oil

  • ½ to ¾ cup maple syrup

  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

  • Pomegranate arils, for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Squash

  • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

  • Cut squash in half lengthwise, scoop out the seeds, and peel.

  • Brush lightly with olive oil and season with a pinch of salt.

2. Parbake for Easy Slicing

Here’s the secret to safe, hassle-free Hasselback cuts: roast the squash before slicing.

  • Place halves cut-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

  • Bake 15–20 minutes, until slightly softened. (This makes slicing easier—and saves your fingers!)

3. Hasselback the Squash

  • Remove from oven and cool slightly.

  • Place halves cut-side up. Using a sharp knife, make thin slices about ⅛ inch apart, stopping ¼ inch before the bottom so it stays intact.

4. Add Fresh Herbs

  • Tuck sprigs of thyme and/or sage between slices for extra flavor.

5. Mix the Maple Glaze

  • In a small bowl, whisk together ¼ cup olive oil, ½–¾ cup maple syrup, salt, and black pepper.

6. Brush + Roast

  • Brush glaze generously over squash, making sure it seeps between slices.

  • Reserve some glaze for basting.

  • Roast 40–50 minutes, basting every 15 minutes, until squash is tender, golden, and caramelized.

7. Garnish + Serve

  • Sprinkle with pomegranate arils just before serving for a festive pop of flavor and color.

Notes

This Hasselback Butternut Squash with Maple Glaze is more than just a side—it’s a holiday showpiece. The combination of caramelized maple syrup, savory herbs, and tender golden squash will keep your guests coming back for seconds.

Serves: 4–6 (as a side). For a crowd, double the recipe or pair it with other festive sides.

Find it online: https://plantpowereddocta.com/2025/09/25/hasselback-butternut-squash-with-maple-glaze-a-show-stopping-vegan-holiday-side/