This Easy Baked Parmesan Zucchini is a tasty side dish that’s both simple and healthy! The zucchini is coated in yummy parmesan and baked until golden and crispy.
I love how this dish quickly turns plain zucchini into something special. And don’t be surprised if you find yourself eating more than you planned—it’s that good!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchinis: Fresh zucchini is the star here! They should be firm and shiny. If you can’t find zucchini, yellow squash works well too.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds great flavor. You can substitute with Pecorino Romano for a bolder taste or use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Olive Oil: Olive oil helps with crispiness. If you’re out, avocado oil or melted butter can work as substitutes.
Garlic Powder: This adds a nice flavor. Fresh minced garlic is a great alternative—just use about a clove or two!
Herbs: Dried Italian seasoning gives a nice blend. If you have fresh herbs, feel free to use them instead; they add a delightful freshness!
How Do I Ensure My Zucchini Stays Crispy?
To get that perfect crispiness, follow these simple tips:
- Make sure your zucchinis are cut evenly so they bake at the same rate.
- Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet. Give them space so they can roast and not steam.
- For extra crispiness, use a baking rack on the sheet if you have one, allowing air to circulate around the zucchini.
Keeping an eye on them towards the end of baking is key. You want a golden crust, but not burnt!
How to Make Easy Baked Parmesan Zucchini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 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, and thyme)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15-20 minutes to bake. So, in total, you’ll spend around 25-30 minutes making this delicious side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While it’s heating, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
Wash the zucchinis and cut off the ends. Slice each zucchini in half lengthwise, then cut each half into thirds or quarters lengthwise to create long sticks. This will help them bake evenly!
3. Coat the Zucchini:
In a large bowl, toss the zucchini sticks with olive oil until they are lightly coated. This will help the seasoning stick and give them a nice crunch.
4. Mix the Seasoning:
In a separate small bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix them well to create your seasoning blend.
5. Add Seasoning to Zucchini:
Sprinkle the Parmesan mixture evenly over the zucchini sticks. Toss gently to make sure all the zucchini pieces are coated well.
6. Arrange and Bake:
Place the coated zucchini sticks in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Avoid crowding them so they can get crispy. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender, and the cheese is golden brown and crispy.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. Transfer the zucchini sticks to a serving plate and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley if you like. Serve immediately and enjoy your deliciously easy baked Parmesan zucchini!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Easy Baked Parmesan Zucchini
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While Parmesan is delicious, you can also try mozzarella for a gooey texture or cheddar for a sharper flavor. Just keep in mind that different cheeses may alter the baking time slightly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to help restore their crispiness.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the zucchini and coat them with the seasoning up to a day in advance. Simply cover and store the zucchini in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake them. Just remember to bake them from cold; you may need to add a couple more minutes to the cooking time.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! You can mix in other vegetables like eggplant, bell peppers, or asparagus. Just make sure to cut them into similar sizes to ensure even cooking. Adjust the cooking time as needed depending on the vegetables you choose!
