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Best Easy Delicata Squash Rings with Maple Tahini

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Quick and easy delicata squash rings roasted until caramelized, then drizzled with a creamy maple tahini sauce. A simple, crowd-pleasing side dish or appetizer ready in under 25 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 medium delicata squash (about 1 pound / 450g)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (30ml)
  • ½ teaspoon fine sea salt (3g)
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper (1g)
  • ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, 0.5g)
  • 3 tablespoons tahini (45ml), well-stirred
  • 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup (30ml)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (15ml), fresh-squeezed
  • 2–3 tablespoons warm water (30-45ml)
  • Pinch of salt
  • Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional garnish)
  • Toasted sesame seeds (optional garnish)
  • Crushed red pepper flakes (optional garnish)
  • Flaky sea salt (optional garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Wash delicata squash thoroughly and pat dry. Trim off both ends (about ¼ inch / 6mm from each end).
  3. Slice squash crosswise into ½-inch (1.3cm) thick rings. Scoop out seeds and stringy pulp from the center of each ring.
  4. Place squash rings in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika (if using). Toss with hands until each ring is evenly coated.
  5. Arrange seasoned rings in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each ring to avoid overcrowding.
  6. Roast for 10 minutes. Meanwhile, make the maple tahini drizzle.
  7. After 10 minutes, flip each ring using tongs or a spatula. Return to oven and roast for another 8-10 minutes, until both sides are deeply caramelized and rings are tender when pierced with a fork.
  8. While squash roasts, make the drizzle: In a small bowl or mason jar, combine tahini, maple syrup, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Whisk or shake until smooth. Add warm water 1 tablespoon at a time, whisking after each addition, until drizzle reaches a pourable consistency (about 2½ tablespoons water). Taste and adjust sweetness or tanginess as desired.
  9. Transfer roasted rings to a serving platter. Drizzle generously with maple tahini sauce. Garnish with fresh herbs, sesame seeds, or flaky salt if desired. Serve immediately while warm and crispy.

Notes

For best results, use high heat (425°F) to achieve caramelized edges. Slice rings evenly (½-inch thick) for uniform cooking. If rings stick to parchment, let them cool 30 seconds before flipping. The drizzle can be made up to 3 days ahead; whisk in warm water to loosen before using. For a spicy version, add ½ teaspoon sriracha or a pinch of cayenne to the drizzle. Air fryer adaptation: cook at 400°F for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway.

Nutrition

Keywords: delicata squash rings, maple tahini, roasted squash, easy side dish, vegetarian, gluten-free, vegan, quick recipe

Find it online: https://coracooks.com/best-easy-delicata-squash-rings-with-maple-tahini/