Why Make This Recipe
Baked Zucchini with Parmesan is a delicious and healthy way to enjoy this versatile vegetable. It’s simple to make and brings out the natural flavors of zucchini while adding a crispy, cheesy topping. This dish is perfect as a snack or a side dish and is great for anyone looking to eat more veggies in a tasty way. Plus, it’s a great option for those who want a lighter bite without compromising on flavor!
How to Make Baked Zucchini with Parmesan
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4 inch rounds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: chopped parsley or lemon zest for garnish
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or spray it with olive oil. Rinse zucchinis and slice them into 1/4 inch rounds. Pat dry.
- Place zucchini slices in a bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Add garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss well and reserve some parmesan cheese.
- Lay zucchini slices on the baking sheet in a single layer and sprinkle with the reserved parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, flipping halfway through, until cheese is golden brown and edges of zucchini curl.
- Let cool slightly, garnish with parsley or lemon zest, and serve hot. Enjoy as a snack or with grilled chicken, fish, quinoa, or salad.
How to Serve Baked Zucchini with Parmesan
Serve the baked zucchini as a tasty side dish alongside your favorite meals like grilled chicken or fish. It also works well as a light snack on its own. Garnishing with chopped parsley or lemon zest adds a fresh touch and enhances the dish’s flavor.
How to Store Baked Zucchini with Parmesan
To store any leftover baked zucchini, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should last for about 2 to 3 days. When you are ready to eat them again, you can easily reheat them in the oven or microwave. Reheating in the oven can help restore some of the crispiness.
Tips to Make Baked Zucchini with Parmesan
- Make sure to slice the zucchinis evenly to ensure they cook uniformly.
- Don’t skip the step of patting them dry; this helps in getting a nice crisp.
- Experiment with different seasonings, like chili flakes for heat or additional herbs to play with the flavor.
Variation
If you want to try something different, you can add other toppings along with or instead of parmesan cheese, such as mozzarella for a cheesy twist or breadcrumbs for added crunch. You can also mix in different spices, like smoked paprika or cumin, to give it a unique flavor.
FAQs
Can I use other vegetables instead of zucchini?
Yes! You can use other vegetables like eggplant, bell peppers, or even mushrooms. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, Baked Zucchini with Parmesan is gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free toppings.
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prep the zucchinis and season them a few hours ahead and keep them in the fridge. Just bake them when you are ready to serve!
