Looking for a quick and delicious side dish that will charm the whole family? This Baked Parmesan Zucchini recipe is exactly what you need! It’s simple, flavorful, and a great way to use up those fresh zucchinis. Plus, it’s a healthy option that everyone will love.
Imagine perfectly tender slices of zucchini, coated in a crispy Parmesan crust that adds a delightful zing to every bite. This dish not only tastes fantastic, but it also brings a pop of color to your dinner table, making it a visually appealing addition to any meal.
Whether you’re serving it alongside grilled chicken, tossing it into a salad, or enjoying it on its own, this Baked Parmesan Zucchini is versatile enough to complement any cuisine. It’s an easy family favorite that you can whip up in no time!
Flavorful Zucchini Slices
These Baked Parmesan Zucchini slices transform a simple vegetable into a delightful side dish. Each round is coated with a blend of Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs, creating a crispy exterior that contrasts beautifully with the tender interior. This balance of textures not only pleases the palate but also makes for an attractive presentation on the plate.
As you prepare these slices, the aroma of garlic and cheese fills your kitchen, making it hard to resist sneaking a taste before they even hit the table. They are not just a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes, with their golden color and vibrant green peeking through, enhanced by a garnish of fresh parsley.
Simple Ingredients for a Delicious Dish
The beauty of Baked Parmesan Zucchini lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dish that feels both comforting and fresh. Fresh zucchinis, Parmesan cheese, and Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs come together with a drizzle of olive oil and a hint of garlic.
This straightforward combination ensures that the natural flavor of zucchini shines through while being complemented by the savory cheese. Moreover, you can easily adjust the seasoning to match your taste preferences, making it a customizable option for everyone at the table.
Preparation Made Easy
Preparing Baked Parmesan Zucchini is a quick process that requires minimal effort. Start by slicing the zucchinis into even rounds to ensure consistent cooking. Then, toss them with olive oil to help the coating adhere and amplify flavor.
Next, dip each slice into the Parmesan and breadcrumb mixture, ensuring an even coating. This step is crucial for achieving that desired crunch as they bake in the oven. Arranging them in a single layer on a baking sheet allows for even cooking, which is key to that satisfying crispiness.
The Baking Process
Once your zucchini slices are ready, it’s time to bake them to golden perfection. Preheating the oven ensures that they cook evenly and develop a nice crust. As they bake, the heat transforms the ingredients, creating a dish that is aromatic and visually appealing.
After about 20-25 minutes, you’ll be rewarded with a platter of beautifully browned zucchini rounds. The anticipation builds as you wait for them to cool slightly before serving, allowing you to savor the moment of enjoyment with family and friends.
Serving Suggestions
Baked Parmesan Zucchini can stand alone as a satisfying side dish, or it can complement a variety of meals. Serve it alongside grilled meats, toss it into salads, or even use it as a topping for pizza. Its versatility makes it a fabulous option for any occasion.
The addition of fresh parsley not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a hint of freshness that brightens the dish. Whether you’re hosting a casual family dinner or a more formal gathering, these zucchini slices will surely impress your guests.
Nutritional Benefits
Enjoying Baked Parmesan Zucchini not only pleases the taste buds but also offers nutritional benefits. Zucchini is low in calories, high in water content, and rich in dietary fiber, making it a healthy choice that supports digestion.
Combining it with Parmesan provides a source of protein and calcium, making this dish both satisfying and nourishing. At just 150 calories per serving, it’s a guilt-free side that everyone can enjoy without compromising on flavor.
Deliciously Crispy Baked Parmesan Zucchini
These Baked Parmesan Zucchini slices are golden, crispy, and bursting with flavor. The combination of fresh zucchini, rich Parmesan cheese, and a touch of garlic creates a savory treat that’s satisfying yet light. It’s a dish that will undoubtedly make even the pickiest eaters go for seconds.
Ingredients
- 4 medium zucchinis, sliced into rounds
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs, preferably Italian seasoned
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley for garnish, optional
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Prepare the Zucchini: Slice the zucchinis into rounds and place them in a large mixing bowl.
- Mix the Coating: In a separate bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Coat the Zucchini: Drizzle the olive oil over the zucchini slices, and toss them to coat evenly. Then, dip each slice into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring they are well coated on both sides.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the coated zucchini slices in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot as a tasty side dish.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 150kcal
- Fat: 8g
- Protein: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 15g