This Easy Baked Parmesan Zucchini is a simple and tasty dish! You just slice fresh zucchini, coat it with cheese and crumbs, then bake until golden. Yum!
It’s like a veggie side dish that feels like a treat! I love serving it with dinner, and let’s be real, it makes veggies so much cooler! 🥒✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh, medium zucchinis are perfect for this recipe. If you can’t find zucchini, try yellow squash. They have a similar texture and will work just as well!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a lovely sharp flavor. If you want something different, Pecorino Romano is a great substitute for an even saltier kick.
Breadcrumbs: While optional, they provide a nice crunch. You can use panko for extra crispiness. If you’re gluten-free, try almond flour or crushed cornflakes as alternatives.
Garlic Powder and Seasoning: These elevate the dish’s flavor. Fresh minced garlic works in place of garlic powder. For seasonings, feel free to use anything you like, such as paprika or Cajun spices!
How Do You Cut Zucchini for Baking?
Cutting zucchini correctly helps it cook evenly and look nice on the plate. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start by washing the zucchinis thoroughly to remove dirt.
- Trim both ends using a sharp knife.
- Slice each zucchini lengthwise into halves first.
- Then, cut each half into quarters or batons about 3-4 inches long. The aim is to have pieces that are similar in size for even baking.
This cutting technique allows the zucchini to bake evenly, ensuring some lovely golden edges and a tender inside. Happy cooking!
Easy Baked Parmesan Zucchini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 medium zucchinis
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional for extra crunch, can be panko)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning or a mix of dried oregano and basil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15-20 minutes to bake, making the total time around 30-35 minutes. It’s a quick and easy side to whip up for any meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This is important for getting the zucchini nice and crispy!
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
Wash the zucchinis under cool water to clean off any dirt. Then, slice them lengthwise into quarters, creating batons that are about 3-4 inches long. This helps them cook evenly.
3. Make the Coating:
In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs (if you’re using them for extra crunch), garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir until all the ingredients are combined.
4. Coat the Zucchini:
Toss the zucchini slices in the mixture until they’re all evenly coated. This will add lots of flavor and a lovely crispy texture to each bite!
5. Arrange for Baking:
Place the coated zucchini slices in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased. Make sure they aren’t overlapping to ensure they bake evenly!
6. Bake to Perfection:
Slide your baking sheet into the oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them—look for that delicious golden color and make sure they’re tender when poked with a fork.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once baked, take the zucchini out of the oven and, if you like, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley on top for added color and flavor. Serve warm as a delightful side dish!
Enjoy your flavorful and crispy baked Parmesan zucchini! It’s sure to be a hit with everyone!
FAQ for Easy Baked Parmesan Zucchini
Can I Use Other Vegetables Instead of Zucchini?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with other vegetables like eggplant, yellow squash, or even bell peppers. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the vegetable’s thickness and moisture content!
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To keep it gluten-free, simply substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour. Both options will still give you a nice crunch!
Can I Prepare This Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the zucchini and coat it a few hours in advance. Store the coated zucchini in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Just allow it to come to room temperature before baking for best results.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes for the best texture, or quickly microwave them, although that might make them softer.
