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Easy Kid-Friendly Roasted Delicata Squash Rings with Maple Tahini

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These roasted delicata squash rings are quick, easy, and irresistibly delicious. With caramelized edges and a sweet-nutty maple tahini drizzle, they’re a crowd-pleasing side dish that even picky eaters will love.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium delicata squash (about 1.5 pounds total)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • 1/4 cup tahini
  • 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons warm water (plus more if needed)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (optional)
  • Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional)
  • Flaky sea salt for finishing (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
  2. Wash delicata squash, pat dry, and cut off both ends. Slice crosswise into 1/2-inch thick rings. Scoop out seeds and stringy bits from the center of each ring.
  3. Place squash rings in a medium mixing bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika (if using). Toss gently with hands until evenly coated.
  4. Arrange seasoned rings in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching or overlapping.
  5. Roast for 15 minutes. Flip each ring using tongs or a spatula, then roast for another 10-15 minutes, until golden brown on edges and tender when pierced with a fork.
  6. While squash roasts, make the sauce: In a small bowl or jar, combine tahini, maple syrup, warm water, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Whisk until smooth. Add more warm water if needed to reach drizzling consistency.
  7. Arrange roasted squash rings on a serving platter. Drizzle generously with maple tahini sauce. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds, fresh herbs, and flaky sea salt if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

Don’t skip flipping the rings halfway through roasting for even caramelization. Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet to prevent sogginess. For the best texture, slice rings uniformly 1/2-inch thick. If tahini sauce seizes, whisk in more warm water a teaspoon at a time. Leftover squash rings can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days; reheat in a 400°F oven for 5-7 minutes or in an air fryer at 375°F for 3-4 minutes. The sauce can be made up to 3 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator.

Nutrition

Keywords: delicata squash, roasted squash, maple tahini, kid-friendly, easy side dish, fall recipe, gluten-free, vegan

Find it online: https://milacook.com/easy-kid-friendly-roasted-delicata-squash-rings-with-maple-tahini/