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Crispy Parmesan Baked Delicata Rings – Easy Crowd-Pleasing Appetizer

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These crispy Parmesan baked delicata rings are a quick and easy appetizer that will steal the show at any gathering. With a shatteringly crisp coating and tender sweet squash inside, they’re healthier than fried but just as addictive.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium delicata squash (about 1.5 lbs total)
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (100g)
  • 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs (60g)
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil (45ml)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Wash the delicata squash thoroughly. Cut off both ends, about 1/4 inch from each tip. Stand the squash upright and slice in half lengthwise. Scoop out all seeds and stringy bits with a spoon.
  3. Lay each half flat and slice crosswise into 1/2-inch thick half-moons. Aim for consistent thickness.
  4. In a shallow bowl, combine grated Parmesan, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until evenly distributed.
  5. Place the squash pieces in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and toss gently with your hands until each piece is lightly coated.
  6. Working one piece at a time, press each squash piece into the Parmesan-panko mixture, turning to coat both sides. Press firmly so the coating adheres. Place coated pieces on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, leaving a little space between each.
  7. Bake for 15 minutes. Carefully flip each ring using tongs or a spatula. Bake for another 10-12 minutes, until both sides are deeply golden and crispy.
  8. Remove from the oven and let the rings rest on the baking sheet for 2-3 minutes. Transfer to a serving platter, sprinkle with fresh parsley if using, and serve warm.

Notes

For best results, don’t skip the parchment paper. Keep squash pieces uniform in thickness (1/2 inch). Press coating on firmly. Watch the last few minutes of baking as Parmesan can burn quickly. Can be prepped a few hours ahead by slicing and tossing with oil, then coat and bake just before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: delicata squash rings, crispy parmesan squash, baked squash appetizer, easy appetizer, vegetarian appetizer, party appetizer

Find it online: https://jollyfork.com/crispy-parmesan-baked-delicata-rings-easy-crowd-pleasing-appetizer/