Get ready to transform an ordinary vegetable into an extraordinary culinary masterpiece that will make your taste buds dance with joy! These bacon-wrapped delicata squash rings are not just a side dish; they're a crispy, savory sensation that bridges the gap between healthy eating and indulgent comfort food. Imagine the perfect combination of sweet, tender squash hugged by crispy, smoky bacon, grilled to golden perfection - this recipe is about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 medium delicata squash
- 8 slices of bacon
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash the delicata squash thoroughly under cool running water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Using a sharp knife, trim off both ends of the squash and slice it into 1/2-inch thick rings. Remove the seeds from the center of each ring using a spoon or circular cookie cutter.
- Pat the squash rings dry with paper towels to ensure the bacon will adhere properly and crisp up well.
- Lightly brush each squash ring with olive oil, then season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Carefully wrap each squash ring with a slice of bacon, stretching the bacon slightly to ensure it covers the entire ring. Secure the bacon with a toothpick if needed.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375-400°F), creating a clean and lightly oiled grate to prevent sticking.
- Place the bacon-wrapped squash rings on the grill, positioning them away from direct high heat to prevent burning.
- Grill for approximately 8-10 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes to ensure even cooking and crispy bacon on all sides.
- Check for doneness by ensuring the bacon is crisp and golden brown, and the squash is tender when pierced with a fork.
- Remove from the grill and let rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the rings to cool slightly and the bacon to set.
- Remove toothpicks if used, and serve immediately as a delicious side dish or appetizer.
Tips
- Choose a medium-sized delicata squash for uniform rings and easier wrapping.
- Pat the squash rings completely dry to ensure the bacon adheres perfectly and crisps up beautifully.
- Use toothpicks to secure bacon if it tends to slip during grilling.
- Maintain medium-high heat and rotate rings frequently to prevent burning.
- For extra flavor, try brushing the bacon with maple syrup or sprinkling with fresh herbs before grilling.
- If you don't have a grill, these can also be prepared in a hot cast-iron skillet or oven.
- Let the rings rest briefly after cooking to allow the bacon to set and flavors to meld.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 25mg
