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Crispy Delicata Squash Rings with Easy Maple Tahini Drizzle

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Crispy, golden delicata squash rings with a crunchy panko-Parmesan coating, served with a creamy maple tahini drizzle. A perfect fall appetizer or side dish that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium delicata squash
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil spray
  • 1/4 cup tahini
  • 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 2–3 tablespoons warm water
  • Pinch of salt
  • Fresh parsley or chives (optional, for garnish)
  • Crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for garnish)
  • Toasted sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) or air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Wash delicata squash thoroughly, pat dry, and slice off both ends. Cut into 1/2-inch thick rings. Scoop out seeds and stringy pulp from the center of each ring.
  2. Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls. In the first bowl, beat eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper. In the second bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
  3. Dip each squash ring into the egg wash, letting excess drip off, then coat evenly with the panko mixture. Press gently to adhere. Place coated rings on a parchment-lined baking sheet or air fryer basket in a single layer, not touching.
  4. If baking: Lightly spray or brush tops with olive oil. Bake for 12-15 minutes, flip, then bake another 10-12 minutes until golden brown and crispy. If air frying: Spray tops with oil. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  5. While rings cook, make the drizzle: In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, maple syrup, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Add warm water one tablespoon at a time, whisking until smooth and drizzling consistency. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  6. Transfer cooked rings to a serving platter. Let cool 2 minutes. Drizzle generously with maple tahini sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives, toasted sesame seeds, and crushed red pepper flakes if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

For maximum crunch, use panko breadcrumbs and don’t overcrowd the pan or air fryer basket. Let coated rings rest for 5 minutes before cooking to help breading adhere. Delicata squash skin is edible, so no peeling needed. The maple tahini drizzle can be made up to a week ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Leftover rings can be reheated in an air fryer or oven to restore crispiness.

Nutrition

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

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