This baked Parmesan zucchini is a tasty and healthy side dish. It’s simple to make and brings a cheesy, crispy topping that everyone loves!
You can whip this up in no time—just slice the zucchini, sprinkle on the Parmesan, and bake. It’s a great way to enjoy veggies without any fuss. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh, medium zucchinis work best for this recipe. If you can’t find zucchinis, yellow squash is a great substitute. Just keep an eye on the size—they should be firm and not too large.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a rich flavor and crispy texture. If you need a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for a similar cheesy taste. You can also use Pecorino Romano for a bolder flavor.
Italian Seasoning: I love using a blend of dried herbs, but you can customize it! If you prefer fresh herbs, feel free to chop up fresh basil, oregano, or thyme. Just remember to adjust the amount, as fresh herbs are stronger.
Olive Oil: This is essential for getting that golden, crispy finish. If you want a different flavor, avocado oil is a great alternative. You could even use melted butter for richness.
How Do You Bake Zucchini for the Perfect Crisp?
Baking zucchini to get it crispy can be tricky, but here are some tips for success:
- Slice the zucchini evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate. Aim for about 1/2 inch thick.
- Don’t crowd the baking sheet; arrange the zucchini sticks in a single layer. This allows for better air circulation, which helps with crisping.
- Preheating your oven is crucial. A hot oven cooks the zucchini quickly, giving you that nice, crispy outside.
- Keep an eye on them near the end of baking. Ovens can vary, so watch for that golden brown color.
Easy Baked Parmesan Zucchini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 medium zucchinis
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious baked Parmesan zucchini takes roughly 10 minutes to prep and about 15-20 minutes to bake, totaling around 30-35 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and healthy side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will help the zucchini get that nice crispy texture. While that heats up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
Next, wash your zucchinis under cold water and pat them dry with a kitchen towel. Cut off the ends and slice each zucchini lengthwise into sticks about 3-4 inches long and 1/2 inch thick. This size helps them cook evenly and gives a nice bite!
3. Mix the Seasoning:
In a large bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. This flavorful mix will be the star of your dish!
4. Coat the Zucchini:
Add the zucchini sticks to the bowl, then drizzle them with olive oil. Toss everything together with your hands or a spatula to ensure each piece is nicely coated with oil and seasoning. Then, sprinkle the Parmesan mixture over the zucchini and toss again to coat all sides.
5. Arrange on Baking Sheet:
Spread the seasoned zucchini sticks in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they aren’t overlapping too much; this way, each piece gets crispy.
6. Bake to Perfection:
Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the zucchini is tender and the Parmesan is golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning!
7. Final Touch:
Once baked, remove the zucchini from the oven and let them cool for a couple of minutes. If you’d like, you can garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve warm and enjoy!
This crunchy, cheesy, and healthy baked Parmesan zucchini side dish is sure to be a hit at any meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Vegetables?
Absolutely! While zucchini is wonderful, you can also use yellow squash, eggplant, or even asparagus. Just adjust cooking times as needed since different vegetables may bake at varying rates.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it contains no flour or breadcrumbs. Just double-check your Parmesan cheese label to ensure it’s labeled gluten-free, and you’re good to go!
Can I Prep These Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can cut the zucchini and mix the seasoning ahead of time. Store the zucchini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just add the cheese and oil right before baking for the best results!
How to Store Leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and warm them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to regain some crispiness.
