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Crispy Baked Parmesan Zucchini Recipe

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4 from 20 reviews

This Crispy Baked Parmesan Zucchini recipe is a delicious, healthy side dish or snack that features zucchini slices coated in olive oil, garlic, Italian herbs, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese, then baked to golden, crispy perfection. It’s a simple, low-carb, and gluten-free option that delivers incredible flavor and crunch without frying, making it perfect for a guilt-free treat or an easy addition to any meal.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Vegetables

  • 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds

Seasonings & Coating

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Garnish (Optional)

  • Chopped parsley
  • Lemon zest

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly oil it to prevent sticking. Rinse the zucchinis and slice them evenly into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Pat the zucchini slices dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a crispy texture and better cheese adhesion.
  2. Season and Toss: Place the zucchini slices into a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle garlic powder, Italian seasoning, sea salt, and black pepper. Toss well to evenly coat all slices. Add most of the grated Parmesan cheese, reserving 2 to 3 tablespoons for topping. Gently toss again so the cheese sticks to the slices, forming a flavorful coating.
  3. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Lay the seasoned zucchini slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they do not overlap to allow even roasting. Sprinkle the reserved Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the slices to create a golden, crispy finish when baked.
  4. Bake to Crispy Perfection: Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 22 minutes. Halfway through baking, flip the zucchini slices to ensure both sides turn golden and crispy. The dish is done when the cheese is golden brown and the edges of the zucchini begin to curl slightly.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Remove the zucchini from the oven and let cool for a minute or two. Garnish with chopped parsley, lemon zest, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired. Serve immediately while hot and crispy for best texture.

Notes

  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for better melting and crisping.
  • Do not overcrowd the baking sheet to avoid steaming and soggy zucchini.
  • For extra crunch, consider mixing breadcrumbs (gluten-free if desired) with the Parmesan cheese.
  • Patting zucchini dry thoroughly before seasoning is essential to remove excess moisture.
  • Elevate zucchini slices on a wire rack placed on the baking sheet to promote air circulation and keep both sides crisp.
  • Do not cover baked zucchini to prevent trapped steam which makes them soggy.
  • Reheat leftovers in the oven or air fryer at 375°F for about 5 minutes to restore crispiness; avoid microwaving.
  • Author: ELLA
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Find it online: https://ellarecipe.com/crispy-baked-parmesan-zucchini-recipe/