Parmesan Zucchini

This Parmesan Zucchini recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a healthy and flavorful side dish. The zucchini is baked to perfection, coated in a crispy Parmesan crust that gives it a satisfying texture while enhancing the fresh, tender zucchini flavor. Whether served alongside a main course or enjoyed on its own, this dish is a perfect addition to any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love making Parmesan Zucchini because it’s quick, simple, and packed with flavor. The crispy Parmesan coating adds a savory crunch, while the zucchini itself remains soft and juicy. It’s a great way to add more vegetables to my meals, and it’s perfect for those looking for a low-carb option. The best part is that it takes just a few minutes of prep and bakes in no time, making it a go-to when I need a fast and delicious side dish.

Ingredients

• 4 medium zucchinis, sliced into rounds

• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

(Here's a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.

2. In a shallow bowl, combine the Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.

3. Drizzle the zucchini slices with olive oil, making sure they are evenly coated.

4. Dip each zucchini slice into the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure a good coating. Place the coated zucchini on the prepared baking sheet.

5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the zucchini is golden and crispy. If desired, broil for an additional 1-2 minutes to get an extra crispy finish.

6. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4 people as a side dish. The total time for preparation and cooking is about 35 minutes.

Variations

• Add herbs: For an extra burst of flavor, I sometimes add fresh thyme or basil to the breadcrumb mixture.

• Spicy twist: If I want to add a little heat, I sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the zucchini before baking.

• Cheese options: While Parmesan is my go-to, I can substitute it with other cheeses like Romano or mozzarella for a different taste.

• Zucchini fries: Instead of rounds, I can slice the zucchini into long strips to create crispy zucchini fries.

Storage/Reheating

To store any leftovers, I place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheating is simple; I pop them back into the oven at 375°F for about 5-10 minutes to regain that crispy texture. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.

FAQs

Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?

Yes, I can substitute regular breadcrumbs, but panko provides a lighter, crispier texture. If I don't have panko, regular breadcrumbs will still work fine.

How do I prevent the zucchini from becoming soggy?

To keep the zucchini crispy, I make sure to coat it evenly with the Parmesan mixture and bake it at a high temperature. Also, I avoid overcrowding the zucchini slices on the baking sheet to ensure they crisp up properly.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, I can prep the zucchini and coat it with the Parmesan mixture ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge until ready to bake. When ready, I bake it as directed.

Can I freeze Parmesan Zucchini?

While it’s best fresh, I can freeze the cooked zucchini slices for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, I recommend baking them from frozen at 375°F until heated through and crispy.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

If I use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs, this recipe can easily be made gluten-free. I can also check the Parmesan to ensure it doesn’t contain any gluten.

Conclusion

Parmesan Zucchini is one of my favorite ways to enjoy zucchini in a delicious and healthy way. The combination of crispy Parmesan and tender zucchini makes for a perfect side dish that complements any meal. Whether I’m serving it for dinner or preparing it for a gathering, this recipe always delivers on flavor and texture. I love that it’s simple to make and can be easily adapted to suit my taste preferences.