Print

Crispy Parmesan Delicata Squash Rings: Best Easy Appetizer

crispy parmesan delicata squash rings - featured image
Print Recipe

Thin rings of delicata squash, no peeling required, dredged in a seasoned Parmesan-panko coating and baked until golden and crispy. Perfect for gatherings, even squash skeptics will devour them.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium delicata squash (about 1.5 pounds total)
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Dipping sauce of your choice (optional)
  • Fresh parsley or chives (optional)
  • Lemon wedges (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Position the oven rack in the middle.
  2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place a wire rack on top if using. Set aside.
  3. Wash and dry the delicata squash thoroughly. Pat completely dry.
  4. Cut about 1/4 inch off each end of the squash and discard.
  5. Slice the squash crosswise into 1/2-inch thick rings. You should get about 12-15 rings per squash.
  6. Use a small spoon or melon baller to gently scoop out the seeds and stringy bits from the center of each ring.
  7. In one shallow bowl, beat the two eggs until uniform and slightly frothy.
  8. In a second shallow bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until evenly distributed.
  9. Dip each squash ring into the egg wash, turning to coat both sides. Let excess drip off.
  10. Transfer to the breadcrumb mixture and press down gently, turning to coat both sides evenly. Place on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with all rings.
  11. Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the tops of the breaded rings.
  12. Bake for 10 minutes. Carefully flip each ring using tongs, then bake for another 10-15 minutes until deep golden brown and crispy.
  13. Optional: For extra crunch, switch to broil for the last 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
  14. Let the rings rest on the baking sheet for 2 minutes before serving.
  15. Serve immediately, optionally garnished with fresh herbs and with dipping sauce on the side.

Notes

For best results, use freshly grated Parmesan. Dry the squash thoroughly after washing to help the coating stick. Let rings rest for 2 minutes after baking to set the coating. Can be made gluten-free with gluten-free panko and dairy-free with nutritional yeast.

Nutrition

Keywords: delicata squash rings, crispy parmesan squash, baked squash appetizer, easy appetizer, game day snack, vegetarian appetizer, fall recipe

Find it online: https://bitesienna.com/crispy-parmesan-delicata-squash-rings-best-easy-appetizer/