Description
Crispy Parmesan zucchini rides the wave of summer’s garden bounty, delivering a simple yet irresistible side dish that elevates fresh vegetables. Cheese-crusted and golden brown, this recipe promises a delightful crunch you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 2 medium zucchini, sliced into 1/4 to 1/2-inch rounds
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese (pre-shredded is also fine)
Seasoning Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt
- Pepper
Instructions
- Heat the oven to 450°F, positioning the rack in the center. Cover a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easier cleanup and crisp preparation.
- Slice zucchini into uniform rounds approximately 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick, ensuring consistent cooking and maximum crispiness.
- Drizzle olive oil over zucchini rounds, carefully coating each piece to promote even browning and prevent sticking.
- Arrange zucchini rounds in a single, spacious layer on the prepared baking sheet, avoiding overcrowding to guarantee proper roasting and prevent steaming.
- Season zucchini with salt and pepper, optionally enhancing flavor with garlic powder or red pepper flakes for additional complexity.
- Generously coat each zucchini round with grated parmesan cheese, creating a thick, flavorful crust that will become golden and crunchy.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 10 minutes until zucchini reaches fork-tender consistency, watching carefully to maintain optimal texture.
- Switch oven to broil and cook for 2-3 minutes, monitoring closely to prevent burning while achieving a perfect golden-brown cheese topping.
- Remove immediately from oven and serve hot as a side dish, appetizer, or snack, potentially accompanied by a complementary dipping sauce.
Notes
- Choose zucchinis that are firm, small to medium-sized for better texture and quicker cooking.
- Use freshly grated parmesan cheese instead of pre-packaged for maximum flavor and better melting.
- Pat zucchini dry with paper towels before seasoning to prevent excess moisture and ensure crispy edges.
- For a gluten-free and low-carb option, this recipe is naturally suitable without modifications.
- For a spicier version, sprinkle chili powder or cayenne pepper alongside the parmesan for extra kick.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat quickly in the oven to maintain crispiness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Snacks, Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 9 g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 10 g
- Cholesterol: 10 mg