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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 or air-fried to golden perfection and drizzled with a creamy maple tahini sauce. A quick, easy, and addictive vegetable side or appetizer that’s ready in about 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium delicata squash
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
  • 3 tablespoons tahini
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 23 tablespoons water
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
  • Flaky sea salt (optional garnish)
  • Red pepper flakes (optional garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). If using an air fryer, set it to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper if using the oven.
  2. Wash the delicata squash thoroughly, pat dry, and trim off the ends. Cut crosswise into ½-inch thick rings. Scoop out the seeds and stringy pulp from the center of each ring.
  3. In a medium bowl, whisk together cornstarch, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Add the squash rings and drizzle with olive oil. Toss gently with your hands until evenly coated.
  4. Arrange the seasoned rings in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet or in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd.
  5. For the oven: Bake for 12 minutes, flip each ring, then bake for another 10-12 minutes until golden brown and crispy. For the air fryer: Cook at 400°F for 8 minutes, flip, then cook for another 6-8 minutes until deeply golden and firm.
  6. While the rings cook, make the maple tahini drizzle: In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, maple syrup, and lemon juice. Add water one tablespoon at a time, whisking after each addition, until smooth and drizzle-able. Adjust sweetness or tang to taste.
  7. Serve immediately: Transfer rings to a platter, drizzle with the maple tahini sauce, and garnish with parsley, flaky sea salt, or red pepper flakes if desired.

Notes

For extra crispiness, ensure squash rings are patted dry before seasoning. Do not overcrowd the pan. The maple tahini sauce can be made up to 3 days ahead. Leftover rings are best reheated in an air fryer or oven.

Nutrition

Keywords: crispy delicata squash rings, maple tahini drizzle, baked squash rings, air fryer squash, vegan appetizer, gluten-free side dish