Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With minimal preparation and a short cooking time, this dish is ideal for busy weeknights.
- Healthy: Zucchini is low in calories and rich in vitamins, making this a nutritious choice.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of roasted zucchini and melted Parmesan offers a savory taste that’s hard to resist.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4 to 1/2-inch rounds
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Directions
- Preheat Oven: Set the oven to 450°F (232°C). Line a baking sheet with foil for easier cleanup.
- Prepare Zucchini: Arrange the zucchini slices on the baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Toss to ensure even coating, then spread them out in a single layer. Season generously with salt and pepper.
- Add Parmesan: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan over each zucchini slice.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet on the center rack and bake for about 10 minutes, until the zucchini is just fork-tender.
- Broil: Switch the oven to broil on high and broil for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve immediately.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe yields 4 to 5 servings.
- Preparation Time: Approximately 5 minutes.
- Cooking Time: Around 12 minutes.
- Total Time: Approximately 17 minutes.
Variations
- Herb-Infused: Add dried herbs like thyme, oregano, or basil to the Parmesan for extra flavor.
- Garlic Flavor: Sprinkle garlic powder over the zucchini before baking for a garlicky kick.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: For best results, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes to retain crispiness. Microwaving is not recommended as it may result in soggy zucchini.
FAQs
1. Can I use pre-shredded Parmesan cheese?
Yes, pre-shredded Parmesan can be used, but freshly grated Parmesan melts and browns better, enhancing the dish’s flavor and texture.
2. How do I prevent the zucchini from becoming too soft?
To maintain a firmer texture, slice the zucchini into thicker rounds, about 1/2-inch thick, and avoid overbaking.
3. Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Certainly! Sliced yellow squash or eggplant can be added, adjusting cooking times as needed.
4. Is it necessary to peel the zucchini?
No, the skin is thin and edible, providing additional nutrients and color to the dish.
5. Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, substitute the Parmesan with a vegan cheese alternative to make the dish vegan-friendly.
6. What main courses pair well with Baked Parmesan Zucchini?
This side dish complements grilled meats, pasta dishes, or can be enjoyed as a light snack.
7. Can I prepare this dish in an air fryer?
Yes, air frying at 400°F (200°C) for about 8-10 minutes can yield similar results.
8. How can I make the zucchini slices crispier?
Broiling for a couple of extra minutes and ensuring the slices are not overcrowded on the baking sheet can enhance crispiness.
9. Can I use other types of cheese?
While Parmesan is traditional, cheeses like Asiago or Pecorino Romano can be used for a different flavor profile.
10. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, provided all ingredients used are certified gluten-free.
Conclusion
Baked Parmesan Zucchini is a versatile and delectable side dish that fits seamlessly into various meal plans. Its simplicity and rich flavor make it a go-to recipe for both novice and experienced cooks. Enjoy this dish fresh out of the oven for the best taste and texture.
Baked Parmesan Zucchini
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Yield: 4–5 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Baked Parmesan Zucchini is a quick, healthy, and delicious side dish featuring tender zucchini rounds topped with crispy, golden Parmesan cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights, this low-carb, gluten-free recipe is full of savory flavor and ready in under 20 minutes!
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4 to 1/2-inch rounds
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) and line a baking sheet with foil.
- Prepare Zucchini: Place zucchini slices on the baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and toss to coat. Spread them out in a single layer and season with salt and pepper.
- Add Parmesan: Sprinkle grated Parmesan evenly over each zucchini slice.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes until zucchini is fork-tender.
- Broil: Switch to broil on high for 2–3 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Watch closely to prevent burning.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve immediately.
Notes
- For added flavor, sprinkle with garlic powder or dried herbs like oregano or thyme.
- To make this recipe vegan, substitute Parmesan with a dairy-free cheese alternative.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
