This Easy Baked Parmesan Zucchini is a tasty way to enjoy veggies! Just slice fresh zucchini, sprinkle it with Parmesan cheese, and bake until golden and crispy. Yum!
Honestly, these cheesy bites disappear fast in my house. Who knew healthy could be so delicious? I love serving them as a side dish or a fun snack! 🥒✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh medium zucchinis are perfect for this recipe. If zucchinis aren’t available, you can use yellow squash for a similar texture and flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds great flavor. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can give a cheesy flavor in a pinch.
Garlic Powder: This adds depth. If you prefer fresh, use 1-2 cloves minced garlic instead, but be cautious not to burn it in the oven.
Italian Herbs: You can swap dried Italian herbs with fresh ones, just use about three times more for the full flavor impact.
How Do I Get My Zucchini Crispy?
The key to crispy baked zucchini is the preparation. Start by slicing the zucchini evenly to ensure even cooking. The oil helps the outside crisp up, while the seasonings blend into the zucchini. Here’s how to do it:
- Slicing: Cut the zucchini into halves or quarters lengthwise for flat surfaces to hold toppings better.
- Coating: Toss the zucchini in olive oil before adding seasonings. This keeps them moist while baking.
- Baking: Spread them out on the baking sheet in a single layer. This prevents steaming and helps them get crispy.
Bake until golden brown; the longer you bake, the crispier they become, so adjust to your liking! Enjoy every bite!
Easy Baked Parmesan Zucchini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 medium zucchinis
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (such as basil, oregano, parsley)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh chopped 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 total of about 25-30 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheating the Oven:
First things first, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). While it heats up, you can get your baking sheet ready. Line it with parchment paper to help with easy clean-up, or lightly grease it with some cooking spray.
2. Preparing the Zucchini:
Wash your zucchinis thoroughly and cut off the ends. Now slice each zucchini in half lengthwise. If they are larger, you can slice them into quarters. You want them to be just thick enough to hold the toppings without falling apart!
3. Coating the Zucchini:
Put the zucchini strips in a large bowl. Drizzle them with the olive oil and use your hands or a spoon to toss them around until they’re lightly coated.
4. Making the Seasoning Mix:
In a separate small bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, dried Italian herbs, salt, and black pepper. Mix this up well so the flavors are evenly distributed.
5. Adding the Topping:
Sprinkle the Parmesan and seasoning mixture over the zucchini slices. Toss gently again to ensure that every piece is nicely covered in the cheesy goodness.
6. Arranging on the Baking Sheet:
Lay the coated zucchini slices out in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Make sure they aren’t overlapping; this will help them cook evenly and get nice and crispy.
7. Baking the Zucchini:
Pop the baking sheet into the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. You’re aiming for tender zucchini with a golden, crispy top. Keep an eye on them, the exact time might vary a little depending on your oven.
8. Garnishing:
Once baked, remove the zucchini from the oven. If you like, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley over the top for a nice touch of color and flavor.
9. Serving:
Serve these warm as a tasty side dish, snack, or even enjoy them as a light appetizer. They are sure to be a hit! Enjoy your delicious, healthy baked Parmesan zucchini!
FAQ for Easy Baked Parmesan Zucchini
Can I Use Other Cheeses Instead of Parmesan?
Yes! You can substitute Parmesan with other cheeses like Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor or even mozzarella for a gooey texture. Just keep in mind that the baking time may vary slightly depending on the cheese used.
How Can I Make This Recipe Lower in Calories?
For a lighter version, you can reduce the amount of olive oil used or omit it entirely. Just use a light spray of cooking spray instead, and skip the cheese or use a lower-fat option. The zucchini will still turn out delicious!
What Should I Do If I Have Leftover Zucchini?
If you have leftover zucchini after baking, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to restore some crispiness or microwave for about 30 seconds until warmed through.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other vegetables, like sliced bell peppers or eggplant, that can also be baked alongside the zucchini. Just adjust baking times as necessary, depending on the size and type of vegetables added.
