This Garlic Parmesan Roasted Zucchini is a tasty side dish that packs a flavorful punch! With fresh zucchini coated in garlic and sprinkled with cheese, it’s hard to resist.
I love how simple it is to make; just toss the zucchini with garlic, oil, and Parmesan, then roast. Perfect crunch and flavor every time! It pairs well with almost anything.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh medium zucchinis are perfect for this dish. If zucchini isn’t available, consider using yellow squash or eggplant for similar results.
Olive Oil: I love using extra virgin olive oil for its rich flavor, but you can substitute with vegetable oil or melted butter if needed.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds intense flavor, but garlic powder can work in a pinch. Adjust the amount to your taste since garlic can be strong!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan gives a nice salty kick. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for a similar nutty flavor.
Italian Seasoning: A mix of dried herbs brings great flavor. If you don’t have it, use a combination of dried basil, oregano, and thyme instead.
How Do I Cut the Zucchini for Roasting?
Cutting zucchini properly ensures even cooking and allows the garlic and cheese mixture to flavor the veggies well. Follow these simple steps:
- Start by washing the zucchinis and trimming the ends off.
- Slice each zucchini in half lengthwise. This will create two long halves.
- Make several cuts in the flesh without going all the way through. This helps the flavors penetrate and looks nice too!
Taking time with the cuts can really enhance the final dish, making it both tasty and visually appealing.
Garlic Parmesan Roasted Zucchini Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Zucchini:
- 4 medium zucchini
For The Garlic Parmesan Mixture:
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnishing:
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You will need about 10 minutes for preparation and around 25-30 minutes for roasting. In total, expect to spend about 40 minutes to enjoy your tasty garlic Parmesan roasted zucchini!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This way, it will be nice and hot by the time you’re ready to roast the zucchini.
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
Wash and dry the zucchini thoroughly. Cut off the ends of each zucchini and slice them in half lengthwise. You want them to be nice and even so they cook well.
3. Score the Zucchini:
Using a sharp knife, make several cuts in the flesh of each zucchini half. Space them out evenly, but be careful not to cut all the way through; you want to keep them intact so they hold their shape.
4. Make the Garlic Parmesan Mixture:
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), and add salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything well to create a flavorful coating.
5. Coat the Zucchini:
Take the garlic-Parmesan mixture and brush it generously over each zucchini half. Make sure to get the mixture into the cuts you made; this will infuse the zucchini with delicious flavor as it bakes!
6. Arrange for Roasting:
Place the zucchini in a baking dish or on a baking sheet, cut side facing up. This will help them roast evenly.
7. Roast in the Oven:
Pop the baking dish or sheet into the preheated oven and roast the zucchini for 25-30 minutes. You’re looking for them to be tender and the cheese to become golden and bubbly.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once they are done, carefully remove the zucchini from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Before serving, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
Enjoy your delicious garlic Parmesan roasted zucchini as a perfect side dish!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While Parmesan gives a wonderful flavor, you can try using Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste or even a mix of cheeses like mozzarella for creaminess. Just be mindful of how moist the cheese is; you may need to adjust the baking time slightly.
What If My Zucchini is Too Large?
If your zucchini is larger than medium size, just slice them into quarters instead of halves to ensure even cooking. You might also need to extend the roasting time by a few minutes, so keep an eye on them!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to retain that crispy cheese topping!
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in other vegetables, such as bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary based on the vegetables you choose, so adjust accordingly!
