This Easy Baked Parmesan Zucchini is a tasty side dish that’s simple to make! With just a few ingredients, you get crispy, cheesy goodness in every bite.
I love how this dish turns plain zucchini into something special. Plus, it’s a hit with kids and grown-ups alike. Who knew veggies could be so yummy? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh zucchinis are the star of this dish. If you’re in a pinch, you could use yellow squash instead. Both have similar textures and flavors, making them great alternatives.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a lovely savory flavor. If you need a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste without the dairy.
Garlic Powder: This adds delicious flavor and can be swapped with minced fresh garlic or garlic salt. Just adjust the amount for your taste preference!
Olive Oil: A must for that golden crisp! You could use melted butter for a richer taste or avocado oil for a higher smoke point.
How Do I Get My Zucchini Crispy?
The key to crispy baked zucchini is all about moisture control. Zucchini has a high water content, so it’s important to follow these steps:
- Slice the zucchini evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate.
- Don’t skip the olive oil; it helps with crispiness.
- Arrange the zucchini in a single layer on the baking sheet, allowing for airflow around each piece.
- Let them bake without stirring to let them get that nice golden crust.
- Feel free to increase the baking time by a few minutes if you want extra crunch.
By following these tips, you’ll achieve that perfect crispy texture every time! Enjoy your flavorful, healthy snack! 🍽️
How to Make Easy Baked Parmesan Zucchini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Zucchini:
- 4 medium zucchinis
For the Coating:
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For Garnish:
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 15-20 minutes to bake, for a total of about 30 minutes! You’ll have these crispy, cheesy zucchini sticks ready to enjoy in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures the zucchini gets that perfect golden crisp! While the oven heats up, prepare your baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or giving it a light grease with cooking spray.
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
Wash the zucchinis thoroughly. Once clean, cut them into sticks or spears that are about 3 to 4 inches long and about 1/2 inch thick. This keeps them consistent for even cooking.
3. Coat the Zucchini:
In a large bowl, toss the zucchini sticks with olive oil. Make sure each piece is evenly coated; this helps them crisp up nicely in the oven.
4. Mix the Seasoning:
In a separate small bowl, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. This simple blend will add fantastic flavor to your zucchini!
5. Apply the Coating:
Sprinkle the Parmesan mixture over the zucchini sticks and toss gently to coat all the pieces evenly. You want every piece to get that yummy cheese and seasoning!
6. Arrange for Baking:
Lay the coated zucchini sticks in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they aren’t overlapping so they can get crispy all over.
7. Bake:
Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they should be tender and the Parmesan topping will turn a lovely golden brown.
8. Serve & Enjoy:
Once done, remove the zucchini from the oven and let them cool slightly. If you like, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley on top for extra flavor and color. Serve them warm as a delicious side dish or snack!
Enjoy your crunchy, cheesy baked zucchini sticks—perfect for any meal or as a healthy treat! 🍽️
Can I Use Other Vegetables Besides Zucchini?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with other vegetables like yellow squash, eggplant, or even bell peppers. Just adjust the cooking time depending on the thickness of the vegetable you’re using.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover baked Parmesan zucchini in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes to get them crispy again, or microwave them for a quicker option.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! The recipe is naturally gluten-free since it doesn’t contain any bread crumbs. Just make sure to check your Parmesan cheese packaging to ensure there are no added fillers that contain gluten.
What Can I Serve With Baked Parmesan Zucchini?
This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or as part of a veggie platter. They also make a great addition to pasta dishes or as a side for any main course. Try them with a dipping sauce like marinara or ranch for extra flavor!
