This Easy Baked Parmesan Zucchini is a tasty side dish that’s perfect for any meal! Fresh zucchini is sliced, coated in a mix of parmesan cheese and spices, then baked until golden brown.
It’s super simple and always a hit at dinner time! I love serving it with grilled chicken or fish. Plus, it’s a clever way to sneak in some veggies without any fuss. Yum! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh, medium zucchinis are the star here. If you can’t find zucchini, yellow squash or eggplant can be a great substitute for a similar texture and appearance.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a wonderful flavor. If you’re looking for dairy-free options, use nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste without the dairy flair. Pecorino Romano is also a nice substitute if you want a sharper taste.
Garlic Powder: This ingredient enhances flavor without overpowering the dish. If you have fresh garlic, feel free to mince a clove instead, but use it sparingly.
Olive Oil: Olive oil keeps the zucchini moist while helping the cheese crisp up. You can swap it with melted butter or avocado oil for a different flavor.
How Can You Ensure Your Zucchini is Perfectly Cooked?
The trick to successful baked zucchini is proper slicing and cooking time. Start by cutting your zucchini into even sticks so they cook uniformly. Aim for a thickness of about 1/2 inch for the best results.
- Make sure your oven is fully preheated. This helps the Parmesan to crisp up nicely.
- Keep an eye on the zucchini during the last few minutes of baking. Every oven is different, so adjust the time if needed.
- If you want extra crispiness, broil the zucchini for 1-2 minutes after baking. Just watch to prevent burning!
Feel free to mix and match your favorite spices or herbs to make this dish your own! Enjoy your baked Parmesan zucchini!
Easy Baked Parmesan Zucchini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 medium zucchinis
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and another 15-20 minutes to bake, making the total time around 30 minutes. It’s quick, simple, and wonderfully delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature helps the zucchini cook quickly and become crispy. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
Wash the zucchinis under cool water and trim off the ends. Cut each zucchini lengthwise into sticks or halves that are approximately 3-4 inches long and about 1/2 inch thick. This sizing helps them cook evenly!
3. Prepare the Coating:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir the mixture well to distribute the spices evenly.
4. Coat the Zucchini:
Drizzle the olive oil over the prepared zucchini sticks and gently toss to coat them evenly. Then, add the zucchini to the bowl with the Parmesan mixture and toss until every piece is well covered with the flavorful coating.
5. Arrange for Baking:
Place the zucchini sticks in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they are spaced out so they’ll crisp up nicely in the oven.
6. Bake and Enjoy!
Bake the zucchini in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are tender and the Parmesan coating is golden and crispy. Keep an eye on them, as oven temperatures can vary.
7. Final Touches:
Once they’re done baking, take them out of the oven and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley if you’d like. Serve warm as a delicious side dish to your favorite main courses!
Enjoy your crispy, cheesy baked zucchini as a delightful treat packed with flavor and veggies! Perfect for any meal!
FAQ for Easy Baked Parmesan Zucchini
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While Parmesan adds 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 the baking time might slightly vary based on the type of cheese used.
How Do I Store Leftover Zucchini?
Store any leftover baked zucchini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or microwave them for a quick option—though they may lose some crispiness.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can slice the zucchini and prepare the coating in advance. Just keep them stored separately in the fridge and combine just before baking to ensure the zucchini stays fresh and crisp!
What Should I Serve with Baked Parmesan Zucchini?
This delicious dish pairs perfectly with grilled chicken, fish, or pasta. For a vegetarian meal, serve it alongside quinoa or a green salad. It’s versatile enough to complement almost any main course!
