This Easy Baked Parmesan Zucchini is a tasty side dish that’s quick to make. Just slice the zucchini, sprinkle some Parmesan cheese, and bake until golden brown. Yum!
You won’t believe how simple it is! I like to serve it alongside my favorite pasta. It adds a pop of color and flavor to the plate. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchinis: Fresh, medium zucchinis are ideal for this recipe. If you can’t find them, summer squash works well too. For a different taste, try slicing eggplant instead!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan brings a rich flavor to the dish. If you’re looking for a substitute, try Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is my go-to for this dish. You can substitute it with avocado oil or melted butter for a different flavor profile.
Italian Seasoning: A blend of dried herbs like basil, thyme, and oregano works great, but feel free to use your favorite seasoning mix. Dried rosemary adds a nice twist too!
How Do I Get My Zucchini Crispy?
The key to achieving that crispy texture lies in the preparation and baking. Here’s how to nail it:
- First, after cutting, you might sprinkle some salt on the zucchini spears and let them sit for about 10 minutes. This helps draw out excess moisture.
- Pat them dry with a paper towel before tossing with olive oil and the cheese mixture.
- Make sure they are arranged in a single layer on the baking sheet—overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of baking.
- Finally, keep an eye on them while baking for that perfect golden brown finish—oven times can vary.
With these tips, you’ll enjoy perfectly crispy baked zucchini every time!
Easy Baked Parmesan Zucchini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 medium zucchinis
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 15-20 minutes to bake. That means you can have a delicious side dish ready in just about 30-35 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures it’s hot enough to make your zucchini crispy. While the oven heats up, prepare your baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it.
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
Wash each zucchini thoroughly. Cut them into long sticks or spears that are about 3-4 inches long and 1/2 inch thick. This size helps them cook evenly and get crispy.
3. Coat with Olive Oil:
In a large bowl, toss the zucchini sticks with olive oil until they’re well coated. This will help them brown nicely in the oven.
4. Mix the Seasoning:
In a separate small bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. This mixture adds a lot of flavor to the zucchini.
5. Sprinkle and Press:
Evenly sprinkle the Parmesan mixture over the zucchini sticks. Press the mixture gently onto the zucchini so it sticks well.
6. Arrange on Baking Sheet:
Place the coated zucchini sticks on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Make sure they aren’t crowded so they can bake evenly and become crispy.
7. Bake to Perfection:
Put the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them until they are tender and golden brown. You might want to flip them halfway through for even browning.
8. Garnish and Serve:
If you like, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley over the baked zucchini for a pop of color and fresh flavor right before serving. Enjoy your tasty and crispy Parmesan zucchini as a delightful side dish or snack!
Bon appétit!
FAQ for Easy Baked Parmesan Zucchini
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While Parmesan adds a great flavor, you can substitute it with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste, or use mozzarella for a melty texture. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change slightly.
What if I Don’t Have Fresh Zucchini?
No worries! If you can’t find fresh zucchini, you can use yellow squash or even eggplant as a substitute. Just cut them into similar-sized sticks for even cooking.
How Do I Store Leftover Zucchini?
Store any leftover baked zucchini in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them back in the oven for a few minutes to get them warm and crispy again, or use the microwave if you’re in a hurry.
Can I Make This Dish Gluten-Free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free! Just ensure that your Parmesan cheese is gluten-free (most are) and enjoy without any worries.
