Baked Parmesan Zucchini: A Simple and Flavorful Side Dish

Baked Parmesan Zucchini is a quick and easy side dish that brings together the fresh, tender taste of zucchini with the rich, savory flavor of Parmesan cheese. Roasted to perfection with a light coating of olive oil, garlic powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper, this dish makes for an excellent accompaniment to any meal, from grilled meats to pasta dishes or as a stand-alone snack.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a dish that is both healthy and packed with flavor. Zucchini is naturally low in calories and high in nutrients, and when combined with the nutty, salty richness of Parmesan cheese, it becomes an irresistible treat. Whether you’re looking for a light and healthy snack or a flavorful side to your main course, Baked Parmesan Zucchini is sure to satisfy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Simple and Quick

With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, Baked Parmesan Zucchini is a super easy recipe to make, perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a last-minute side dish.

2. Full of Flavor

The combination of garlic powder, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil infuses the zucchini with a rich, savory flavor that will have everyone reaching for more.

3. Healthy and Light

Zucchini is a low-calorie vegetable that’s packed with vitamins and minerals, making this dish a healthy option that won’t weigh you down.

4. Perfect for Any Meal

This dish pairs wonderfully with almost anything—whether you’re serving it alongside grilled chicken, roasted fish, or a hearty pasta dish.

5. Easily Customizable

Feel free to adjust the seasoning to suit your taste. You can add herbs like oregano, thyme, or basil for extra flavor, or even top with crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

Ingredients

• Fresh zucchini
• Fresh grated Parmesan cheese
• Garlic powder
• Olive oil
• Salt
• Black pepper

Variations

• Herbed Parmesan Zucchini: Add fresh or dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or Italian seasoning for a more aromatic and flavorful twist.
• Spicy Zucchini: Sprinkle a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce before baking for a spicy kick.
• Crispy Parmesan Zucchini: For extra crispiness, add breadcrumbs to the Parmesan cheese mixture or coat the zucchini with a thin layer of breadcrumbs before baking.
• Vegan Option: Swap the Parmesan for a plant-based cheese alternative to make this dish vegan-friendly.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent the zucchini from sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Zucchini

Wash the zucchini and cut them into slices or spears, depending on your preference. Aim for even slices to ensure they cook uniformly.

Step 3: Coat the Zucchini

Place the zucchini slices on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss the zucchini to ensure they are evenly coated.

Step 4: Add the Parmesan

Generously sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the zucchini, making sure each slice is well-covered.

Step 5: Bake the Zucchini

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the Parmesan is golden and crispy.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the zucchini from the oven and serve immediately. For extra flavor, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil if desired.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t Overcrowd the Zucchini: Make sure the zucchini slices are spread out in a single layer on the baking sheet. Overcrowding can cause the zucchini to steam instead of bake, preventing it from becoming crispy.
• Use Fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese works best for this recipe as it melts more evenly and creates a richer flavor compared to pre-grated cheese.
• Adjust Cooking Time: The thickness of your zucchini slices can affect the cooking time. Thin slices may only need 15-20 minutes, while thicker slices may require up to 30 minutes.
• Check for Crispiness: If you want extra crispy zucchini, broil for the last 1-2 minutes of baking. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.

How to Serve

Baked Parmesan Zucchini can be served as a side dish alongside your favorite main course, or even as a snack or appetizer. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, seafood, pasta, or even a fresh salad. You can also serve it with a dipping sauce like marinara or ranch for an extra burst of flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover baked zucchini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. To maintain some crispiness, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes.

Freezing

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the cooked zucchini for later. Place the cooled zucchini on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a freezer bag or container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven to restore some crispiness.

Reheating

To reheat, place the zucchini on a baking sheet and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes. If you’re in a hurry, you can also reheat in the microwave, but it may lose some of its crispiness.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen zucchini for this recipe?

Fresh zucchini is best for this dish, as frozen zucchini can release too much water and become mushy when baked.

2. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can use a variety of cheeses, such as Romano, Asiago, or mozzarella, although Parmesan provides the best flavor for this recipe.

3. How can I make this dish dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, substitute the Parmesan with a plant-based cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.

4. How do I know when the zucchini is done baking?

The zucchini is done when it is tender and the Parmesan cheese is golden and crispy. You can also test the zucchini by inserting a fork—if it slides in easily, it’s ready.

5. Can I make this recipe without olive oil?

While olive oil helps with the crisping and flavor, you can use other oils like avocado oil or vegetable oil if desired.

6. Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! You can add other vegetables like yellow squash, eggplant, or bell peppers for variety.

7. Can I cook these zucchini slices in an air fryer?

Yes, you can cook the zucchini in an air fryer for a quicker, crispier result. Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook for 10-15 minutes, shaking halfway through.

8. Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

You can prep the zucchini and coat it with the seasonings and Parmesan in advance, then store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

9. Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb diet?

Yes, Baked Parmesan Zucchini is low in carbs, making it a great option for low-carb or keto diets.

10. Can I add breadcrumbs to make it crunchier?

Yes, adding breadcrumbs to the Parmesan mixture before baking will create an even crunchier texture. You can use panko breadcrumbs for a lighter, crispier result.

Conclusion

Baked Parmesan Zucchini is a simple yet delicious dish that brings out the best in fresh zucchini. With minimal ingredients and effort, you can create a flavorful side dish that complements any meal. Whether you’re serving it as a side or enjoying it as a snack, these crispy, cheesy zucchini slices will be a hit every time. Try this easy recipe and enjoy the savory goodness of baked Parmesan zucchini!

Print