Name: Crispy Delicata Squash Rings-Easy Baked Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 small delicata squash (about 1-1/2 pounds total), seeded and sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon sea salt; 1/4 teaspoon onion powder; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional); 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Crispy Delicata Squash Rings are more than just a side dish; they’re a revelation! Imagin extracte tender, sweet squash transformed into golden, crunchy bites that disappear from the plate faster than you can say “second helping.” There’s a reason why these gems have become a seasonal obsession. People adore them for their incredible versatility – they’re perfect as a light appetizer, a wholesome snack, or even as a delightful addition to salads and grain bowls. What truly sets these Crispy Delicata Squash Rings apart is their inherent sweetness, which caramelizes beautifully during roasting, creating a depth of flavor that is simply irresistible. Plus, unlike many other winter squash, the skin of the delicata is completely edible, meaning less prep work and more enjoyment of those delightful, crisp edges.

Ingredients:

2 small delicata squash (about 1-1/2 pounds total), seeded and sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Preparing the Delicata Squash

The first step to achieving perfectly Crispy Delicata Squash Rings is to prepare the squash itself. You’ll want to wash your delicata squash thoroughly under cool running water. Because the skin of the delicata squash is edible and incredibly tender when cooked, there’s no need to peel it. This saves you a lot of time and effort, and you get to enjoy the added nutrients and flavor of the skin.

Next, you’ll need to seed the squash. The easiest way to do this is to slice each squash in half lengthwise. Then, using a spoon, scoop out the seeds and the stringy pulp from the center of each half. You can discard this pulp or save it for another use if you like. Once seeded, you’ll want to slice each squash half into 1/2-inch thick rounds. Aim for consistent thickness so that all the rings cook evenly. These rounds will look like little edible donuts!

Seasoning for Maximum Flavor

Now it’s time to bring out the flavor of these beautiful squash rings. In a large bowl, place all your prepared delicata squash rings. Drizzle the tablespoon of olive oil over the squash. The olive oil acts as a binder for the seasonings and helps them adhere to the squash, as well as contributing to that desirable crispiness.

Next, sprinkle over the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, sea salt, onion powder, black pepper, and the crushed red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Be generous with the seasonings, as they are key to making these rings truly delicious. Gently toss the squash rings with your hands or a spatula to ensure each piece is evenly coated with the oil and spices. This even coating is crucial for developing a uniform flavor and texture across all the rings.

Achieving the Perfect Crisp

For baking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is heating up, prepare your baking sheets. It’s a good idea to line your baking sheets with parchment paper. This prevents the squash rings from sticking to the pan and makes for easier cleanup.

Arrange the seasoned delicata squash rings in a single layer on the prepared baking sheets. Make sure the rings are not overlapping. This is a critical step for achieving crispiness. If the rings are too crowded, they will steam rather than roast, resulting in a softer texture. You may need to use two baking sheets if your squash rings don’t fit comfortably on one.

The Parmesan Crust Magic

This is where the magic happens, transforming these simple squash rings into something truly special with a cheesy, crispy coating. After you’ve arranged the seasoned squash rings on the baking sheets, it’s time to add the star of the show for this final touch: the Parmesan cheese.

Sprinkle the freshly grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of each delicata squash ring. Try to ensure each ring gets a good dusting of cheese. The Parmesan cheese will melt and crisp up in the oven, creating a delightful golden-brown crust that adds a salty, nutty flavor and an extra layer of texture. This cheesy topping is what truly elevates these Crispy Delicata Squash Rings.

Roasting to Golden Perfection

Now, place the baking sheets into your preheated oven. Roast for approximately 20 to 25 minutes. During the roasting process, keep an eye on the squash. About halfway through the cooking time, you’ll want to carefully flip each delicata squash ring. This allows both sides to brown and crisp up beautifully.

You’ll know they are ready when the edges are golden brown and slightly caramelized, and the squash is tender when pierced with a fork but still holds its shape. The Parmesan cheese should be melted and bubbly, with some browned bits. The exact time may vary slightly depending on your oven and the thickness of your squash slices, so it’s best to rely on visual cues. Once they look perfectly roasted and crispy, carefully remove the baking sheets from the oven. Let them cool for a minute or two on the baking sheets before transferring them to a serving platter.

Conclusion:

And there you have it! Your guide to creating the most delightful Crispy Delicata Squash Rings. We’ve walked through each step to ensure your rings achieve that perfect balance of tender sweetness and satisfying crunch. These rings are incredibly versatile and can elevate any meal, from a light appetizer to a hearty side dish. We hope you enjoy making and sharing this recipe with your loved ones. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different seasonings – the possibilities are truly endless!

For serving suggestions, try them alongside a creamy dip like aioli or a tangy yogurt sauce. They also make a fantastic topping for salads, grain bowls, or even as a unique addition to your Thanksgiving spread. Get creative with variations by adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness, some grated Parmesan cheese during the last few minutes of baking, or even a dash of chili powder for a spicy kick. We encourage you to embrace the simplicity and deliciousness of Crispy Delicata Squash Rings and make them a regular in your kitchen repertoire. Happy cooking!

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: Can I use a different type of squash for this recipe?

While this recipe is specifically tailored for the wonderful qualities of delicata squash, you might have success with other thin-skinned varieties like acorn squash. However, you’ll likely need to adjust baking times and potentially peel the squash, as their flesh and skin density differ.

Q: How can I make my Crispy Delicata Squash Rings even crispier?

To maximize crispiness, ensure you don’t overcrowd the baking sheet, allowing for good air circulation. Using a wire rack on top of your baking sheet can also help crisp the undersides. Make sure the squash rings are as dry as possible before tossing them with oil and seasonings. Additionally, broiling for the last minute or two can provide an extra boost of crispiness, but watch them very closely to prevent burning.