This Easy Baked Parmesan Zucchini is a scrumptious side dish that’s quick to make! Just zucchini slices topped with crispy parmesan cheese, making veggies taste oh-so-good!
It’s super simple: just slice, sprinkle, and bake! Perfect for a busy weeknight when you want something healthy and tasty on the table fast.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchinis: Fresh medium zucchinis are ideal. If zucchini isn’t available, yellow squash works well too. They have a similar texture and flavor profile that holds up to baking.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan gives a wonderful crisp finish. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor, or a vegan cheese substitute.
Garlic Powder: This adds a nice kick. If you have fresh garlic, feel free to mince a clove instead! Just be careful not to overdo it, as fresh garlic can be more potent.
Italian Seasoning: Use any herb mix you like. If fresh herbs are on hand, go for basil, parsley, or thyme to punch up the flavor without the store-bought convenience.
How Do You Get the Best Crispy Texture for Your Zucchini?
Getting the zucchini crispy while baking can be tricky. Here are some key steps to ensure success:
- Make sure to slice your zucchinis evenly to promote uniform cooking.
- Coating them lightly with olive oil helps the cheese adhere and contributes to crispness.
- Arrange the zucchini in a single layer on your baking sheet to avoid steaming. Overcrowding can keep them from crisping up.
- Watch closely towards the end of baking to catch that perfect golden-brown color without burning your cheese.
Following these tips, you’ll have deliciously crispy baked zucchini every time!
Easy Baked Parmesan Zucchini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 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)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh parsley or dried parsley flakes for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15-20 minutes to bake, totaling around 30-35 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weekday side or an easy meal prep option!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures that your zucchini will cook evenly and get a nice golden crisp when baked.
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
Wash the zucchinis thoroughly and cut off both ends. Then, slice each zucchini lengthwise into 3-4 sticks, making them similar in size to thick fries. This helps them cook evenly and become soft and tender inside while being crispy on the outside.
3. Coat with Olive Oil:
In a large bowl, toss the zucchini sticks with olive oil until they are evenly coated. This step is essential for helping the seasoning stick and giving the zucchini a crispy texture when baked.
4. Mix the Seasonings:
In a small bowl, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. This mixture will create a flavorful topping for your zucchinis.
5. Arrange and Top:
Place the zucchini sticks in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. It’s important they aren’t overlapping to ensure they bake properly. Next, sprinkle the Parmesan mixture evenly over the tops of the zucchini sticks.
6. Bake to Perfection:
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them! You want the zucchini to be tender and the Parmesan topping to turn golden brown and crispy. This is when your kitchen will start smelling amazing!
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once finished baking, remove the zucchini from the oven. If you like, you can garnish with fresh or dried parsley for an extra touch of flavor and color. Serve warm as a delicious and healthy side dish.
Enjoy your crispy, cheesy baked zucchini sticks that make veggies truly delicious and easy!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While Parmesan is traditional for its nutty flavor and crisp texture, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella for a gooey texture, or cheddar for a sharper taste. Just remember that different cheeses may alter the flavor slightly!
What If I Don’t Have Italian Seasoning?
No problem! You can easily make your own mix using dried herbs you have on hand. Combine equal parts of dried basil, oregano, and thyme, or use any combination of Italian herbs you prefer, including rosemary or sage for different flavor profiles.
How Do I Store Leftover Zucchini Sticks?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in an oven or air fryer for a few minutes to get them crispy again. Microwaving might make them a bit soggy.
Can I Pre-cut the Zucchini Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the zucchini sticks in advance! Just be sure to store them in the refrigerator in a sealed container with a damp paper towel to keep them fresh. It’s best to dress them with olive oil and seasonings right before baking for the best texture.
