Kid friendly and fun to eat, the whole family will adore this side dish that is simple to make and easy to enjoy. Thinly sliced slivers of delicata squash provide a unique and healthy side dish. With a taste similar to a sweet potato, delicata squash is rich in fiber and immune boosting vitamin C. Unsweetened coconut flakes coat these squash slices with a delicious flavor that coordinates well with the natural nutty sweetness of this fall vegetable.
With its unique cream and green striped skin, the delicata squash also has a time saving characteristic. Once delicata squash is cooked, its skin becomes very soft and is edible so there is no need to peel it before preparing or serving. I like to cook these in an air fryer which is faster than oven roasting, though you can do it that way, too. Cooking them in an air fryer creates a nice crisp exterior on the coating and makes them perfect for dipping into a spicy mayo or a more traditional sweet chili sauce. This versatile dish is paleo friendly and suitable for vegetarians as well. Because it is appropriate for a multitude of eating styles, these dippers also make an awesome appetizer for parties, game-day, or the holidays!
Coconut Delicata Squash Dippers
Calories 340, Protein 4g, Total Carbs 14g, Fat 31g
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 minutes in air fryer or 25 minutes in oven
Serves: 4
Ingredients:
- 1 delicata squash, halved, seeded and cut into 1/4 inch slices
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 cup unsweetened desiccated coconut flakes
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Pinch of salt
Spicy Mayo Dipping Sauce:
- 1/2 cup all natural or homemade mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon garlic chili sauce or sambal oelek
Preparation Instructions:
- Prepare squash by cutting of both ends, slice in half lengthwise, scoop out the seeds, and then cut into 1/4 inch slices. Leave the peel on.
- Place egg in a small dish and beat it. Set aside.
- Combine coconut, cayenne pepper, and salt in a small bowl.
- Coat squash pieces in the egg and then toss in the coconut mixture being sure all sides are covered lightly.
- Place in an air fryer and fry at 390 degrees for 12 minutes or until coconut is browned and squash is tender.
- While squash is cooking, combine the mayonnaise and chili sauce and set aside.
- Serve squash hot with the spicy mayonnaise or a sweet chili sauce.
Oven alternative: Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Place coated squash on a baking sheet and bake 20-25 minutes.
