Oven Roasted Parmesan Zucchini

These Oven Roasted Parmesan Zucchini are the ultimate quick and tasty side dish! Perfect for weeknight dinners or as a crunchy snack, these zucchini rounds are coated in garlic powder, olive oil, and topped with parmesan cheese. The result is a crispy treat that is both simple to prepare and deliciously satisfying. Everyone will love this easy addition to any meal!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 5 minutes of prep time, you can have a flavorful side dish ready in no time.
• Crispy Texture: Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of zucchini while creating a delightful crispy finish.
• Cheesy Flavor: The addition of parmesan cheese adds a rich, savory taste that elevates the dish.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a side with your main course or enjoy it as a healthy snack.
• Healthy Ingredients: Made with fresh zucchini, this recipe is low in calories yet high in nutrients.

Tools and Preparation

To make Oven Roasted Parmesan Zucchini, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment can streamline your cooking process and ensure great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or cooking spray
• Mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides even heat distribution for roasting, ensuring crispy edges on your zucchini.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier after cooking.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for tossing ingredients together evenly before roasting.

Ingredients

For the Zucchini

• 4 large zucchini or summer squash
• 2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/3 c parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

How to Make Oven Roasted Parmesan Zucchini

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 sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Zucchini

1. Slice zucchini into ¼-inch rounds.
2. In a mixing bowl, toss the sliced zucchini with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well coated.

Step 3: Arrange on Baking Sheet

Spread the zucchini slices on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Ensure they are evenly spaced for optimal roasting. Sprinkle freshly grated parmesan cheese evenly over the top.

Step 4: Roast the Zucchini

Roast in the oven for 9-10 minutes until tender. After that, switch to broil and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your crispy, cheesy Oven Roasted Parmesan Zucchini as a delightful side dish or snack!

How to Serve Oven Roasted Parmesan Zucchini

Serving Oven Roasted Parmesan Zucchini is simple and versatile. This crunchy and cheesy dish can complement many meals or stand alone as a delightful snack.

As a Side Dish

• Pair it with grilled chicken for a complete and satisfying meal.
• Serve alongside fish tacos to add a fresh, crunchy element.

As a Snack

• Enjoy them straight from the oven for a quick bite.
• Dip in marinara sauce for an extra flavor boost.

In Salads

• Toss cooled zucchini with mixed greens and your favorite vinaigrette for a refreshing salad.
• Add to pasta salads for added texture and flavor.

With Dips

• Serve with ranch or tzatziki for a delicious dipping experience.
• Try a spicy aioli to elevate the flavor profile.

How to Perfect Oven Roasted Parmesan Zucchini

To achieve the best results with your Oven Roasted Parmesan Zucchini, follow these handy tips.

• Choose fresh zucchini: Select firm, unblemished zucchini for optimal taste and texture.
• Slice evenly: Cut the zucchini into uniform rounds to ensure they cook evenly.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Spread the zucchini in a single layer on the baking sheet to promote even roasting.
• Broil at the end: Broiling gives the cheese that irresistible golden, bubbly finish.
• Experiment with seasonings: Feel free to add herbs like oregano or thyme for extra flavor.
• Serve immediately: Best enjoyed fresh out of the oven while still crispy!

Best Side Dishes for Oven Roasted Parmesan Zucchini

Oven Roasted Parmesan Zucchini pairs beautifully with various side dishes. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Grilled Chicken: Tender chicken breast seasoned simply complements the cheesy zucchini well.
2. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad adds protein and balances the dish’s richness.
3. Lemon Rice: The zesty flavors of lemon rice enhance the savory aspect of the zucchini.
4. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy potatoes provide heartiness, making this a filling meal option.
5. Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread for an indulgent pairing that everyone loves.
6. Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons in Caesar salad work well together with zucchini bites.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Oven Roasted Parmesan Zucchini even better. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

• Boldly Overcrowding the Baking Sheet: Placing too many zucchini slices on the sheet can cause steaming instead of roasting. Spread them out for that crispy texture.
• Ignoring Olive Oil Measurement: Skipping or overdoing olive oil can lead to soggy or burnt zucchini. Use the right amount for optimal flavor and crispiness.
• Neglecting Fresh Ingredients: Using stale or old zucchini may affect taste and texture. Always choose fresh, firm zucchini for the best results.
• Forgetting to Preheat the Oven: Cooking in a cold oven can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat to 400°F (200°C) before baking.
• Skipping Seasoning Adjustments: Not adjusting salt and pepper can result in bland zucchini bites. Taste and season according to your preference.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Oven Roasted Parmesan Zucchini in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Oven Roasted Parmesan Zucchini

• Place cooled zucchini in a single layer on a baking sheet before freezing.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag; they will last for up to 2 months.

Reheating Oven Roasted Parmesan Zucchini

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 5-8 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, but this may result in softer texture.
• Stovetop: Sauté in a pan over medium heat for about 5 minutes until warmed, retaining some crispiness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about our delicious Oven Roasted Parmesan Zucchini recipe.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes! While parmesan is great, feel free to experiment with mozzarella or cheddar for unique flavors.

How do I know when the zucchini is done?

Zucchini is ready when it’s tender but still has a slight bite. The cheese should be golden and bubbly.

Can I add other seasonings?

Absolutely! Try adding herbs like oregano or thyme, or spices like paprika for an extra kick.

What is the best way to serve these zucchini bites?

They make a fantastic side dish or snack. Serve them with marinara sauce or your favorite dip!

Final Thoughts

These Oven Roasted Parmesan Zucchini offer a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making them perfect for any meal. You can easily customize them with different cheeses or seasonings based on your tastes. Give this simple yet satisfying recipe a try!