Description
This Crispy Baked Parmesan Zucchini recipe offers a healthy, flavorful side dish that’s perfectly crispy with a cheesy golden-brown crust. Using simple ingredients and baking instead of frying, it delivers guilt-free indulgence and a veggie boost in under 30 minutes. Perfect for clean eating, meal prep, or as a tasty snack, these zucchini rounds are naturally gluten-free, vegetarian, and packed with herbs and parmesan for irresistible flavor.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
Seasonings & Coatings
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Optional Garnish
- Chopped parsley
- Lemon zest
- Red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease with olive oil. Rinse the zucchinis, then slice into even 1/4-inch rounds. Place the slices on paper towels and pat dry to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a crisp texture and makes the parmesan stick better.
- Season and Toss: Transfer the zucchini slices to a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle garlic powder, Italian seasoning, sea salt, and black pepper. Toss to coat evenly. Add most of the grated parmesan cheese, reserving 2 to 3 tablespoons for later, and gently toss again so the cheese adheres to the oil-coated zucchini for a flavorful crust.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Lay the seasoned zucchini slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet without overlapping. Sprinkle the reserved parmesan cheese evenly over the tops of the slices to create a golden, crispy finish while baking.
- Bake to Crispy Perfection: Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 22 minutes. At the halfway point, flip the zucchini slices to ensure even browning on both sides. They are done when the cheese is golden brown and the edges curl slightly, achieving a crisp texture.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the zucchini from the oven and let cool for one to two minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley, lemon zest, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for added flavor and a touch of heat. Serve hot and enjoy as a healthy snack or side dish.
Notes
- Patting zucchini dry is crucial to ensure crispiness and proper adherence of parmesan.
- Use freshly grated parmesan cheese for best flavor and texture.
- Spacing zucchini slices on the baking sheet prevents steaming and promotes even browning.
- Flipping halfway through baking ensures both sides become crispy and golden.
- Optional garnishes like parsley, lemon zest, or red pepper flakes add freshness or heat as desired.
- Serve immediately for the crispiest texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
