Crispy Baked Parmesan Zucchini Recipe

Looking for a delicious and easy side dish to impress your guests or elevate your weeknight dinner? Look no further than this Crispy Baked Parmesan Zucchini recipe. With its crispy texture, flavorful Parmesan coating, and simple preparation, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

1. Great flavors: The combination of Parmesan cheese, garlic, and Italian seasoning creates a savory and satisfying taste.
2. Quick prep time: With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep work, you can have this dish on the table in no time.
3. Perfect for meal prep: This recipe is versatile and can be enjoyed as a side dish, snack, or even a light main course.

Ingredient Notes:

• Medium zucchinis: Sliced into -inch rounds, zucchinis provide a tender and flavorful base for this dish.
• Olive oil: Helps to crisp up the zucchini rounds and adds a rich flavor.
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese: The star ingredient that creates a crispy and cheesy coating.
• Garlic powder, Italian seasoning, sea salt, black pepper: These seasonings add depth and flavor to the dish.
• Optional: Chopped parsley or lemon zest for garnish can add a fresh and bright touch.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, toss the zucchini rounds with olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Arrange the zucchini rounds in a single layer on the baking sheet and sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is crispy.
5. Garnish with parsley or lemon zest before serving.

Helpful Tips:

• For extra crispiness, place the zucchini rounds on a wire rack on top of the baking sheet.
• Feel free to experiment with different seasonings or cheeses for a unique twist on this recipe.
• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Expert Tips for the Best Results:

1. Make sure to slice the zucchini rounds evenly to ensure even cooking.
2. Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet, as this can prevent the zucchini from getting crispy.
3. If you prefer a softer texture, you can bake the zucchini for a shorter amount of time.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve this Crispy Baked Parmesan Zucchini alongside grilled chicken, pasta dishes, or as a tasty snack with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.

Storage and Reheating Tips:

To retain the crispy texture, reheat the zucchini in a single layer in the oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the zucchini soggy.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use pre-grated Parmesan cheese? Yes, but freshly grated Parmesan will provide a better flavor and texture.
2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? While best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the zucchini in advance and bake it when ready to serve.
3. Can I freeze the leftovers? It’s not recommended, as the zucchini may become mushy when thawed.
4. Can I use other vegetables in this recipe? Yes, you can try this recipe with eggplant, yellow squash, or even sweet potatoes for a delicious variation.

Conclusion:

Next time you’re looking for a simple and flavorful side dish, give this Crispy Baked Parmesan Zucchini recipe a try. With its crispy texture, cheesy coating, and versatile flavors, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy and don’t forget to share your feedback with us!

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