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Crispy Delicata Squash Rings with Easy Maple Tahini Drizzle

crispy delicata squash rings - featured image

These crispy oven-baked delicata squash rings are coated in a seasoned panko crust and drizzled with a sweet and nutty maple tahini sauce. They make a stunning fall appetizer that’s naturally gluten-free and vegetarian-friendly.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium delicata squash (about 1.5 lbs total)
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • Olive oil spray
  • 1/4 cup tahini
  • 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 2 to 3 tablespoons warm water
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a wire rack inside a rimmed baking sheet.
  2. Wash delicata squash, trim ends, and slice crosswise into 1/2-inch thick rings. Remove seeds with a small spoon.
  3. In a shallow bowl, whisk together flour, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. In a second bowl, beat eggs with 1 tablespoon water. In a third bowl, combine panko and Parmesan (if using).
  4. Dredge each ring in flour mixture, tap off excess, dip in egg wash, then press into panko mixture to coat evenly. Place on wire rack.
  5. Lightly spray tops of rings with olive oil. Bake for 12 minutes, flip, spray other side, and bake another 10-12 minutes until golden and crispy.
  6. While rings bake, whisk together tahini, maple syrup, lemon juice, and salt. Add warm water 1 tablespoon at a time until smooth and pourable.
  7. Serve rings immediately drizzled with maple tahini sauce or with sauce on the side.

Notes

For maximum crispiness, use a wire rack. Do not overcrowd the baking sheet. Slice rings 1/2-inch thick for best results. The tahini drizzle thickens as it sits; thin with warm water before serving. Leftover rings can be reheated in a 375°F oven for 5-7 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: delicata squash rings, crispy squash rings, maple tahini drizzle, fall appetizer, gluten-free appetizer, vegetarian appetizer, oven-baked squash rings