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Crispy Parmesan Roasted Delicata Rings: Best Easy Appetizer

crispy parmesan roasted delicata rings - featured image

Crispy, cheesy, and incredibly easy to make, these roasted delicata squash rings are the perfect appetizer for any gathering. With a golden parmesan-panko crust and tender sweet squash inside, they disappear every time.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium delicata squash (about 1.5 pounds total)
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice, freshly squeezed
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place a wire rack on top if you have one.
  2. Wash the delicata squash well. Trim off the very ends. Cut the squash crosswise into 1/2-inch thick rings. Use a spoon to gently scoop out the seeds from the center of each ring.
  3. Set up your coating station: In the first shallow bowl, add the flour. In the second bowl, beat the eggs until smooth. In the third bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  4. Take one squash ring and dredge it in the flour, shaking off any excess. Then dip it into the beaten egg, letting any extra drip off. Finally, press it into the panko-Parmesan mixture, making sure both sides are well coated. Place the coated ring on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with all the rings.
  5. Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the tops of the rings.
  6. Roast for 20-25 minutes. After 12 minutes, use tongs to flip each ring carefully. Return to the oven and roast for another 8-13 minutes, until the rings are deeply golden and crispy.
  7. While the rings roast, make the aioli: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and cayenne if using. Stir well and refrigerate until ready to serve.
  8. Serve immediately. Transfer the rings to a platter, sprinkle with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley if desired, and serve with the garlic aioli on the side.

Notes

Don’t overcrowd the pan; use two baking sheets if needed. Pat the squash dry before coating to help the coating stick. Use your fingers to press the panko mixture onto the rings. Serve immediately for the crispiest texture. Leftovers can be reheated in the oven or air fryer at 375°F for 5-7 minutes.

Nutrition

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