Baked Parmesan Zucchini Recipe

This simple Baked Parmesan Zucchini recipe transforms ordinary zucchini into a flavor-packed side dish that’s incredibly easy to make. Crisp-tender zucchini spears are seasoned with aromatic herbs, garlic, and a generous coating of freshly grated Parmesan, then baked to golden-brown perfection. Ideal for a quick weeknight vegetable that everyone will enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful: The combination of Parmesan, herbs, and garlic creates a wonderfully savory taste that enhances the natural flavor of zucchini.
• Versatile: A fantastic side dish that pairs well with almost any main course, from grilled chicken and fish to pasta and steak.
• Healthy: A delicious way to enjoy your daily dose of vegetables. Zucchini is naturally low in calories and rich in essential nutrients.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You likely have most of these ingredients on hand already! Here’s what you’ll need to create this tasty side:

• Zucchini: The star of the show! Look for firm, medium-sized zucchini.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is a MUST for the best flavor and melting texture.
• Dried Thyme, Oregano, and Basil: These herbs provide an earthy, aromatic depth to the dish.
• Garlic Powder: A convenient way to add that classic garlic flavor.
• Olive Oil: Adds moisture and helps the zucchini brown beautifully.
• Parsley: Freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness as a garnish.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.

Variations

Want to switch things up? Experiment with these variations:

• Spicy Zucchini: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the Parmesan mixture for a little heat.
• Italian Cheese Blend: Use a mixture of Parmesan, mozzarella, and provolone for a different cheesy flavor.
• Lemon Zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the Parmesan mixture for a bright, citrusy note.
• Breadcrumbs: Toss the zucchini with a tablespoon of breadcrumbs before adding the Parmesan mixture for extra crunch.

How to Make Baked Parmesan Zucchini

Step 1: Prep the Zucchini and Baking Sheet

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place a cooling rack on a baking sheet, and spray the rack with nonstick cooking spray. This helps the zucchini get crispy on all sides.

Step 2: Make the Parmesan Mixture

In a small bowl, combine the freshly grated Parmesan cheese with the dried thyme, oregano, basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix it all together until well combined.

Step 3: Season the Zucchini

Place the quartered zucchini onto the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle the zucchini with olive oil, making sure to coat all sides. Then, generously sprinkle the Parmesan mixture over the zucchini, pressing it lightly to adhere.

Step 4: Bake and Broil

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender. Then, turn on the broiler and broil for 2-3 minutes, or until the Parmesan is melted, golden brown, and slightly crispy. Keep a close eye on it during broiling to prevent burning!

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Remove the baking sheet from the oven and transfer the zucchini to a serving plate. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves, if desired, and serve immediately.

this Recipe

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. If you’re making a larger batch, use two baking sheets to ensure the zucchini browns evenly.
• Use a Microplane to grate the Parmesan. Finely grated Parmesan will melt more evenly and create a better crust.
• Broiling is key for that perfect golden-brown finish. But watch closely—it can go from perfect to burned in seconds!
• Adjust the seasonings to your liking. Taste the Parmesan mixture before sprinkling it on the zucchini and adjust the herbs and spices to suit your preference.

How to Serve

This Baked Parmesan Zucchini is a versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses.

• Protein Pairings: Serve it alongside grilled chicken, steak, fish, or pork chops.
• Pasta Companion: Add it to your favorite pasta dish for extra vegetables and flavor.
• Simple Salad: A light green salad with a vinaigrette dressing is a great complement to the richness of the zucchini.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover zucchini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that the zucchini will soften slightly over time.

Reheating

Reheat the zucchini in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat it in a skillet over medium heat, but be careful not to overcook it.

Freezing

Freezing this zucchini isn’t recommended, as the texture will change significantly and become mushy when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh.

FAQs

1. Can I use pre-shredded Parmesan cheese?

While pre-shredded Parmesan is convenient, freshly grated Parmesan will provide a much better flavor and melting texture. It’s worth the extra effort for the best results!

2. Can I use other vegetables besides zucchini?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with other summer squash varieties like yellow squash, as well as eggplant or even bell peppers. Just adjust the baking time as needed, depending on the vegetable.

3. Can I add breadcrumbs to the Parmesan mixture?

Yes, adding breadcrumbs will create a crispier coating on the zucchini. Use about a tablespoon of breadcrumbs per ½ cup of Parmesan. Panko breadcrumbs work especially well.

4. What if I don’t have dried thyme, oregano, and basil?

You can substitute Italian seasoning, which is a blend of these herbs. Use about 1 ½ teaspoons of Italian seasoning in place of the individual herbs.

Final Thoughts

This Baked Parmesan Zucchini is a simple, flavorful, and healthy side dish that’s sure to become a weeknight favorite. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can transform ordinary zucchini into a delicious and satisfying dish. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor combinations. Enjoy!

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