(Note: this post was originally published on December 22, 2019. It has since been updated with additional flavor combinations and photos.)
If you're looking for a healthy vegan appetizer that's also hearty and satisfying, then these unique kabocha squash "dippers" are going to be your new favorite finger food. Unlike classic raw veggies and dip, these seasoned squash wedges are hot, cozy, and filling. This plant-based appetizer is also loaded with nutrition, so you can truly feel good about snacking.
In my opinion, there's nothing more fun than a finger food party or date night. I love how casual and intimate finger food is. Making some appetizers is definitely my favorite way to entertain and even to do a simple Friday evening at home. But most finger foods aren't very healthy and many aren't friendly for plant-based eaters. These kabocha squash dippers solve those problems.
The best thing about these easy squash wedges is that you can pick whatever flavor combination you're in the mood for. Whether you're looking for a vegan gameday snack, a healthier party food option, or a unique dish for a date night at home, this recipe is very customizable. Keep reading to learn about how to season and garnish the squash dippers, as well as what dips to pair them with.
There are an infinite number of ways you can customize the flavors in this vegan appetizer. You can infuse flavor through (1) spicing the squash while it roasts, (2) garnishing the squash after roasting, and (3) choosing one or a few dips to pair with it. Here are a few ideas to get you started, but you can borrow flavors from any culture, dish, or holiday, allowing these kabocha squash dippers to work for any occasion.
These flavorful, snackable squash wedges are easy to make. You'll just cut a kabocha squash into crescent-shaped slices, then roast them until tender. Because kabocha squash takes a while to cook (30-40 minutes, depending on the thickness of the wedges), spices may burn. To avoid that, you'll start by roasting the wedges in just salt and pepper, then add the other seasonings ten minutes before the end of the roasting time. Add the garnishes after cooking, then pair the completed wedges with whatever dips you choose.
These kabocha squash dippers are great for a party since they can easily feed a crowd. A medium-sized kabocha squash will feed two or three people for a meal, or half a dozen people for appetizers. You can easily multiply as needed; just remember to split the squash wedges between two sheet trays if you need more space.
These kabocha squash dippers work well in the air fryer and cook faster than in the oven. However, most air fryers will only fit 6-10 squash wedges at a time, so I recommend using the oven for a larger group of people. If you're only preparing a small batch, air fry them at 400 degrees for about 12-15 minutes until tender.
If you want to get ahead on making these kabocha squash dippers, you can easily cut the squash a day or two ahead of time; just store the wedges in a sealed container in the refrigerator. Depending on what dips you choose to make, you also might be able to prepare those in advance. This hearty vegan appetizer is best when enjoyed fresh and hot, so I recommend waiting to roast the squash until half an hour or so before you're ready to eat.
These kabocha squash dippers are more of a concept than a specific recipe. See the ideas above for how to flavor the squash and pair it with different dips. Here's the rough outline of what you'll need:
These kabocha squash dippers are a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish. Because they're infinitely customizable, easy, and friendly for most diets, this is a great recipe for a party. Unlike the classic finger foods, these dippable squash wedges are vegan, grain-free, and loaded with plant-based nutrition. While many finger foods aren't filling or satisfying, these can easily serve as a meal, especially if you pair them with a protein-rich dip like hummus.
How will you enjoy this vegan squash appetizer? Perhaps for a gameday gathering or a party? For a Thanksgiving appetizer? Maybe for a Friday date night on a chilly winter evening? I'm already excited for my next opportunity to make these, and I hope you are too!
It makes me so happy to hear from you and see your creations! Please leave a comment below and let me know what you think about this recipe. If you post a photo on Instagram, hashtag #TheRogueBrusselSprout and tag me (@TheRogueBrusselSprout) in the post text so that I'm sure to see it.
These roasted kabocha squash dippers are a cozy, hearty, and healthy vegan appetizer. They're warm, satisfying, and perfect for dipping and sharing.
Did you make this recipe? Did you make substitutions? How did you serve it? Any helpful tips? Please share your thoughts, since these insights are really useful to both me and to other readers.
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