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Crispy Delicata Squash Rings with Easy Maple Tahini Drizzle

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Crispy, golden delicata squash rings with a creamy maple tahini drizzle. A quick and easy fall appetizer or side dish that’s both indulgent and wholesome.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium Delicata squash (about 1.5 pounds total)
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tablespoon water
  • ¾ cup panko breadcrumbs
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • ¼ cup tahini
  • 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 2–3 tablespoons warm water
  • Pinch of salt
  • Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional)
  • Flaky sea salt (optional)
  • Toasted sesame seeds (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Position the rack in the middle of the oven.
  2. Wash the Delicata squash well. Cut off both ends (about ¼ inch from each tip). Slice the squash into ½-inch thick rings. Use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and stringy bits from each ring.
  3. Set up your breading station. In one shallow bowl, whisk together the egg and 1 tablespoon water until combined. In another shallow bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Have your cornstarch ready on a small plate or in another shallow bowl.
  4. First, toss each squash ring in the cornstarch, shaking off any excess. Next, dip the ring into the egg wash, letting any excess drip off. Finally, press it into the panko mixture, coating both sides evenly. Place the breaded ring on a wire rack set on a baking sheet. Repeat with all rings.
  5. Lightly drizzle or spray the breaded rings with olive oil.
  6. Bake for 12 minutes, then flip each ring carefully using tongs or a spatula. Bake for another 10-12 minutes, until the rings are golden brown and crispy.
  7. While the rings bake, make the maple tahini drizzle. In a small bowl, whisk together the tahini, maple syrup, and lemon juice. Add warm water one tablespoon at a time, whisking constantly, until you get a smooth, drizzle-able consistency. Add a pinch of salt and taste. Adjust the sweetness or tanginess to your preference.
  8. Transfer the hot crispy delicata squash rings to a serving platter. Drizzle generously with the maple tahini sauce. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt, fresh herbs, and sesame seeds if using. Serve immediately.

Notes

The cornstarch step is crucial for extra crunch. Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; give each ring space for air circulation. If the panko mixture gets clumpy, make a fresh batch. The maple tahini sauce can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat leftovers in an air fryer or oven, not the microwave.

Nutrition

Keywords: delicata squash rings, crispy squash, maple tahini, fall appetizer, vegetarian, easy side dish

Find it online: https://platebelle.com/crispy-delicata-squash-rings-with-easy-maple-tahini-drizzle/