This easy baked parmesan zucchini is a tasty side dish! Just slice up fresh zucchini, coat it in parmesan cheese, and bake until golden. It’s crunchy and cheesy—what’s not to love?
I always enjoy the crispy edges on these zucchinis. Plus, they pair perfectly with almost any meal. You may even convince your veggie-skeptic friends to give it a try! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchinis: Fresh medium zucchinis are best for this recipe. If you can’t find them, yellow squash works too. You may also use smaller zucchinis for bite-sized pieces.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds great flavor. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste without the dairy. Pecorino Romano is a nice substitute too!
Garlic Powder: This gives a tasty kick to the zucchini. If you prefer fresh, you can use minced garlic instead; just be careful not to burn it during baking.
Dried Italian Seasoning: While this mix is convenient, using fresh herbs like basil or oregano can enhance the flavors even more, if you have them on hand.
How Do You Make Crispy Baked Zucchini?
The key to achieving crispy baked zucchini lies in a few simple steps. First, cutting the zucchinis evenly will ensure uniform cooking. Then, coating them well in the cheese mixture is essential.
- After mixing the cheese with oil or butter, ensure each zucchini stick is fully covered. This helps create a crunchy crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. Spacing them allows for even air circulation and crispiness.
- Keep an eye on them in the last few minutes of baking. Since oven temperatures can vary, watch for that golden brown crust!
Serve these baked zucchini warm for the best texture and flavor. They make a tasty side and pair well with many dishes! Enjoy! 😊
Easy Baked Parmesan Zucchini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 medium zucchinis
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- Fresh parsley or dried parsley flakes for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15-20 minutes to bake, making a total of around 30-35 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and easy way to enjoy a delicious side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). For easy cleanup, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease it lightly with some cooking spray or a little oil.
2. Cut the Zucchini:
Wash your zucchinis thoroughly and trim off the ends. Cut each zucchini lengthwise into halves or quarters, making sure they are all similar in size to cook evenly. You want nice little sticks!
3. Mix the Coating:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir it all together until evenly mixed.
4. Add Oil:
Pour in the olive oil or melted butter and mix again. This will help the cheese stick to the zucchini and create that delicious crispy coating!
5. Coat the Zucchini:
Now, toss the zucchini sticks in the Parmesan mixture until they are all well coated. You want every piece to get a good amount of that cheesy goodness!
6. Arrange and Bake:
Spread the coated zucchini sticks in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Make sure to leave space between each stick so they can get nice and crispy. Bake in your preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes.
7. Check for Doneness:
Keep an eye on them in the last few minutes. They should be tender and the Parmesan should be golden brown and crispy. You can give them a little turn halfway through for even cooking.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once they’re done, take them out of the oven and, if you like, sprinkle some fresh or dried parsley on top for color. Serve them warm as a tasty side dish or a healthy snack.
Enjoy your crispy, cheesy baked Parmesan zucchini! It’s a delightful treat that everyone will love! 😊
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While Parmesan gives a great flavor, you can substitute it with other cheeses like Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste or even mozzarella for a gooey texture. Just keep in mind that different cheeses may alter the flavor and crispiness.
Is This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes, this baked Parmesan zucchini recipe is naturally gluten-free! Just ensure that any seasonings or additional ingredients you may add are also gluten-free.
Can I Make This Recipe with Other Vegetables?
For sure! This coating works well with other vegetables such as eggplant, asparagus, or even broccoli. Just adjust the baking time as needed depending on the vegetable you choose!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through for the best texture—microwaving may make them soggy!
