This Easy Baked Parmesan Zucchini is a tasty side dish that’s quick to whip up! You simply slice the zucchini, sprinkle it with Parmesan cheese, and pop it in the oven.
It’s a fun way to eat your veggies and the cheesy topping makes it even better. I love serving it alongside grilled chicken or just munching on it as a snack! Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh, medium zucchinis work best. If you’re in a pinch, you can use yellow squash or even eggplant as a substitute. Just keep in mind the cooking times may vary!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a lovely crunch and flavor. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast provides a cheesy taste. You can also use Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste.
Olive Oil: It gives a nice richness to the dish. If you need an alternative, avocado oil or melted coconut oil can work well, though they may alter the taste slightly.
Italian Herbs: A blend of dried herbs is great for flavor but feel free to use individual herbs. Fresh herbs like basil or thyme can add a fresh twist. If you don’t have those, Italian seasoning will do just fine!
How Do I Get My Zucchini Crispy and Delicious?
To make sure your zucchini comes out perfectly crispy and tender, follow these steps:
- Preheat your oven well! Having it hot ensures the outside crisps up while the inside cooks through.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. Lay out the zucchini in a single layer for even cooking and crispiness.
- Let the zucchinis bake until they’re tender but still have a slight bite. Keep an eye on the cheese—when it’s golden and bubbly, it’s time to take them out!
Enjoy your Easy Baked Parmesan Zucchini! It’s a quick and delightful dish that can brighten up any meal. 😊
Easy Baked Parmesan Zucchini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 medium zucchinis
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or a mix of oregano, basil, and thyme)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or dried parsley flakes (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep and around 15-20 minutes to bake, so you’ll have delicious baked Parmesan zucchini ready in about 30-35 minutes total. Quick and easy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This helps get your zucchini nice and crispy. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a light greasing with cooking spray so your zucchinis don’t stick.
2. Prep the Zucchinis:
Wash and dry those lovely zucchinis! Trim off the ends, then slice each zucchini lengthwise into halves or quarters. The slices should be about 1/4 inch thick to ensure they cook evenly.
3. Season the Zucchini:
Grab a large bowl and add your zucchini slices. Drizzle the olive oil over them, then sprinkle the garlic powder, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together gently to ensure each zucchini slice is coated well.
4. Bake the Zucchini:
Lay the zucchini slices on the prepared baking sheet cut side up. Be sure to arrange them in a single layer for even cooking. Now, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of each slice.
5. Cooking Time:
Pop the baking sheet in the oven and let the zucchinis bake for about 15-20 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they are tender and the cheese on top is golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Take them out of the oven and carefully transfer the zucchini to a serving platter. If you like, garnish with some fresh or dried parsley for that extra pop of color. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious, cheesy zucchini!
Enjoy your easy and flavorful baked Parmesan zucchini! Great as a side dish or a healthy snack! 😊
FAQs for Easy Baked Parmesan Zucchini
Can I Use Other Vegetables Instead of Zucchini?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with other vegetables like yellow squash, eggplant, or even bell peppers. Just be aware that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the veggie you choose.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Good news! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it doesn’t contain any flour. Just be sure to double-check that your Parmesan cheese is labeled gluten-free if you’re particularly sensitive.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the zucchinis and season them a few hours ahead. Just keep them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. If you want to bake them ahead, enjoy them warm or reheat them in the oven for best results!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover baked zucchini in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through. Enjoy!
