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Crispy Parmesan Baked Delicata Rings – Easy Kid-Approved Side

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These crispy, cheesy delicata squash rings are a quick and easy side dish that even picky eaters will love. With a salty Parmesan crust and tender sweet squash, they’re perfect for family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium delicata squash (about 1.5 pounds total)
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese (packed)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped, for serving)
  • Lemon wedges (from 1 lemon, for serving)
  • Extra Parmesan (for grating over the top, optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a rack in the upper third of the oven. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. If you have a wire rack, place it on the baking sheet now.
  2. Wash the squash thoroughly and pat dry. Trim off the ends (about 1/4 inch from each tip). Slice the squash crosswise into rings about 1/2-inch thick. You should get about 20-24 rings. Use a small spoon or your fingers to scoop out the seeds and stringy pulp from the center of each ring.
  3. Place the squash rings in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and toss gently with your hands until every ring is coated. In a small bowl, mix together garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle this spice mixture over the oiled rings and toss again.
  4. Add the finely grated Parmesan to the bowl with the seasoned rings. Toss gently but thoroughly, using your hands to press the cheese onto both sides of each ring.
  5. Place the coated rings in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are not touching. If using a wire rack, arrange the rings directly on the rack.
  6. Bake for 12 minutes. The bottoms should be golden brown and the Parmesan starting to crisp.
  7. Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Use kitchen tongs to carefully flip each ring over.
  8. Bake for another 8-12 minutes, until the rings are deeply golden and crispy on the edges, and the Parmesan has formed a lacy, crunchy crust. Total baking time should be 20-24 minutes.
  9. Remove from the oven and let the rings rest on the pan for 2-3 minutes. Transfer to a serving platter, sprinkle with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice if desired, and serve warm.

Notes

Slice rings evenly (1/2-inch thick) for even cooking. Use freshly grated Parmesan for best melting and crisping. A wire rack helps achieve extra crunch. Watch the last few minutes of baking to prevent burning. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat in a 375°F oven for 5-7 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: delicata squash rings, crispy Parmesan squash, baked squash rings, easy vegetable side, kid-approved side dish

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