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Crispy Delicata Squash Rings with Easy Maple Tahini Drizzle

crispy delicata squash rings - featured image

These crispy delicata squash rings are baked to golden perfection with a seasoned panko coating, then drizzled with a creamy maple tahini sauce. They’re a quick, easy, and crowd-pleasing appetizer or snack that’s perfect for fall gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium delicata squash
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • Olive oil spray or cooking spray
  • ¼ cup tahini
  • 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 23 tablespoons water
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a wire rack on a rimmed baking sheet and spray it lightly with olive oil spray. If you don’t have a rack, just line the sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Scrub the delicata squash well under running water. Trim off the stem end and the tip. Slice the squash crosswise into ½-inch thick rings. Use a small spoon or your finger to scoop out the seeds and stringy pulp from the center of each ring.
  3. In the first shallow bowl, whisk together the flour, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. In the second bowl, beat the eggs until frothy (about 30 seconds). In the third bowl, spread out the panko breadcrumbs.
  4. Working one ring at a time, dredge it in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess. Dip it into the beaten eggs, letting any extra drip off. Then press it into the panko, making sure both sides are fully coated. Place the coated ring on the prepared wire rack or baking sheet. Repeat with all the rings.
  5. Lightly spray the tops of the coated rings with olive oil spray.
  6. Bake for 15 minutes, then carefully flip each ring using tongs. Spray the other side lightly with oil and bake for another 10-12 minutes, until the rings are deep golden brown and crispy.
  7. While the rings bake, make the drizzle: In a small bowl, whisk together the tahini, maple syrup, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Add water one tablespoon at a time, whisking after each addition, until you reach a smooth, drizzle-able consistency.
  8. Serve immediately: Transfer the crispy squash rings to a serving platter. Drizzle the maple tahini sauce over the top (or serve it on the side for dipping).

Notes

For extra crispiness, pop the rings under the broiler for 1-2 minutes after baking. The maple tahini drizzle can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you don’t have a wire rack, place rings directly on parchment-lined baking sheet and flip halfway through.

Nutrition

Keywords: delicata squash rings, crispy squash rings, maple tahini drizzle, baked squash rings, fall appetizer, vegetarian snack, easy appetizer