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Crispy Roasted Delicata Squash Rings (Easy Side Dish)

crispy roasted delicata squash rings - featured image

These crispy roasted delicata squash rings are a quick and easy side dish that turns a simple vegetable into a golden, crunchy treat. With a panko-Parmesan coating and natural sweetness, they’re a crowd-pleaser perfect for fall gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium delicata squash
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Optional: fresh parsley or chives, chopped for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a wire rack on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. If you don’t have a wire rack, just line the baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Wash the delicata squash thoroughly and pat dry. Trim off both ends, then slice crosswise into rings about 1/2 inch thick. Scoop out the seeds from the center of each ring using a small spoon or melon baller.
  3. In one shallow bowl, whisk the eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper. In a second shallow bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  4. Working one at a time, dip a squash ring into the egg wash, letting excess drip off, then transfer to the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently so the breadcrumbs adhere to both sides. Place on the prepared baking sheet or wire rack. Repeat with remaining rings.
  5. Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the tops of the coated rings.
  6. Bake for 15 minutes without opening the oven door. Then flip each ring using tongs and bake for another 10-12 minutes, until deeply golden and crispy on both sides.
  7. Remove from the oven and let rest for 2-3 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives if desired, and serve warm.

Notes

Pat the squash dry before coating to help the egg wash stick. Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; give rings space for air circulation. Flip halfway through baking for even crispiness. Serve immediately for best texture. For a spicy version, add 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture. For gluten-free, use gluten-free panko or crushed pork rinds. For vegan, use a flax egg and omit Parmesan or use a vegan alternative.

Nutrition

Keywords: delicata squash rings, crispy roasted squash, easy side dish, fall recipe, vegetarian side dish