Description
Looking for a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional fries? These Acorn Squash Parmesan Fries are crispy, flavorful, and packed with nutrients. Perfect as a side dish or a snack, they’re a fantastic way to enjoy seasonal squash in a new and exciting way. Easy to make and full of cheesy goodness, this recipe is bound to become a favorite.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 medium acorn squash (about 1.5 lbs)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Prepare the Squash:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Cut the acorn squash in half and scoop out the seeds. Peel the skin (optional, as the skin is edible when roasted). Slice the squash into thin, fry-shaped strips.
Season the Fries:
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the squash strips with olive oil, ensuring each piece is well coated.
- In a small bowl, combine Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper. Sprinkle this mixture over the squash fries and toss to coat evenly.
Bake the Fries:
- Spread the seasoned fries on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, ensuring they do not overlap.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, flipping the fries halfway through, until they are golden and crispy on the edges.
Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- Peeling the Squash: If you enjoy a slightly chewy texture, you can leave the peel on as it softens during baking.
- Crispiness Tips: Space the fries out on the baking sheet to prevent steaming. For extra crispiness, consider broiling them for the last 2–3 minutes of cooking.
- Dipping Ideas: Serve with marinara sauce, garlic aioli, or a simple Greek yogurt dip.
- Prep Time: 15 min
- Cook Time: 25 min
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup of fries
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 240 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 8mg