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Crispy Delicata Squash Rings with Parmesan and Thyme

Crispy Delicata Squash Rings - featured image

A quick and easy side dish featuring roasted delicata squash rings coated in a crispy mixture of panko breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, and thyme. This crowd-pleaser offers a perfect balance of sweet squash, salty cheese, and aromatic herbs.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium delicata squash
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 2 tablespoons heavy cream or whole milk
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon melted butter

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Wash the delicata squash thoroughly. Cut off the top and bottom ends, then slice into 1/2-inch thick rings. Remove seeds from the center, leaving the skin intact.
  3. In a shallow bowl, whisk together the beaten eggs and heavy cream until smooth.
  4. In a second shallow bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, grated parmesan, dried thyme, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly.
  5. Dip each squash ring into the egg wash, letting excess drip off. Press firmly into the breadcrumb mixture to coat both sides, ensuring crumbs adhere well.
  6. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper and place a wire rack on top. Arrange coated squash rings on the rack, leaving space between each piece.
  7. Mix olive oil and melted butter. Lightly brush the tops of the breaded squash rings with the oil mixture.
  8. Roast for 15 minutes. Remove from oven, flip each ring, and brush the newly exposed side with the oil mixture. Return to oven and roast for another 10-15 minutes until tender and golden brown.
  9. Remove from oven and let rest on the rack for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Do not peel the delicata squash as the skin is edible and tender when roasted. Ensure the oven is fully preheated to prevent the breading from falling off. Do not overcrowd the pan to avoid steaming; use two pans if necessary. For a gluten-free version, swap panko for gluten-free panko or almond flour. For a vegan version, use plant-based milk with mustard as a binder and nutritional yeast instead of parmesan.

Nutrition

Keywords: delicata squash, roasted squash, crispy vegetables, parmesan thyme, panko crust, autumn recipes, vegetarian side dish, gluten-free option