This easy baked parmesan zucchini is a tasty way to enjoy veggies! With a crispy topping of parmesan cheese, it’s both healthy and super satisfying.
You won’t believe how simple it is! Just slice the zucchini, sprinkle it with cheese, and pop it in the oven. Perfect as a side dish or a snack—who knew healthy could be this good?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: This is the star of the dish! Medium zucchinis are best for a perfect balance of texture. If zucchini isn’t in season, you can substitute with yellow squash for a similar flavor and texture.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a delicious salty kick. For a lactose-free option, try a dairy-free cheese alternative that melts well. Nutritional yeast can also give a cheesy flavor.
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds richness and helps with browning. You could use avocado oil if you prefer a higher smoke point or want a slightly different flavor. Just use a good quality oil for the best taste!
Seasonings: Garlic powder and Italian seasoning bring in the flavor. Feel free to adjust to your taste! Fresh garlic can be used instead of garlic powder for a stronger taste. Fresh herbs like oregano or thyme work too.
How Do I Get the Zucchini to Crisp Up in the Oven?
Getting zucchini crispy can be tricky since it’s high in water content. Here’s how to do it:
- Slice the zucchini evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate.
- Try to remove excess moisture by patting them dry before coating them with oil.
- Arrange the slices in a single layer on the baking sheet to allow even cooking and crisping.
- For extra crispiness, you can broil them for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Just watch carefully to prevent burning!
Following these tips will help you achieve perfectly crispy baked parmesan zucchini every time!
Easy Baked Parmesan Zucchini
Ingredients:
- 4 medium zucchinis
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15-20 minutes to bake, making it a quick and easy dish that can be ready in under 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is heating up, you can prepare the baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it. This will help prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
Next, wash the zucchinis thoroughly and cut off the ends. Slice each zucchini in half lengthwise to create long quarters. If you like, you can also slice them into rounds, but long quarters will give you more surface area for that crispy topping!
3. Make the Seasoning Mixture:
In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. This mixture will give your zucchini great flavor!
4. Coat the Zucchini:
Now, toss the zucchini slices in the olive oil mixture, ensuring they are all evenly coated. You can use your hands or a spatula to gently mix everything together.
5. Arrange on Baking Sheet:
Lay the zucchini slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure the flat side is facing down. This will help them roast evenly during baking.
6. Add the Parmesan:
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the zucchini. The cheese will melt and create a delicious crispy topping as it bakes.
7. Bake:
Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is golden and crisp. If you like extra crunch, you can broil them for the last couple of minutes, but watch carefully!
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once baked, remove the zucchini from the oven. If desired, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor. Serve immediately as a delightful side dish or snack. Enjoy your delicious Baked Parmesan Zucchini!
Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese?
Absolutely! You can substitute the Parmesan with grated Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste, or use mozzarella for a melty, gooey texture. Just keep in mind that different cheeses will change the flavor profile a bit!
What If My Zucchini Is Too Watery?
If your zucchini seems watery, you can help reduce moisture by salting the slices before coating them. Simply sprinkle salt over the cut zucchini and let them sit for about 10 minutes. This will draw out some of the moisture. Pat them dry with paper towels before proceeding with the recipe.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes, to make this dish vegan, you can use a dairy-free cheese alternative instead of Parmesan. Nutritional yeast is also a great option for a cheesy flavor without dairy. Just make sure your other ingredients (like the olive oil) are vegan-friendly!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them back in the oven for a few minutes to regain some crispness, or warm them in the microwave for a quick snack.
