This Easy Baked Parmesan Zucchini is a simple and tasty side dish that brings out the best in zucchini! Sprinkle with parmesan and bake until golden and crisp.
If you think veggies can’t be exciting, this dish will change your mind! I love serving it alongside pasta or grilled chicken for a fresh twist. Yum! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Medium zucchinis work perfectly for this recipe. If you can’t find zucchinis, yellow squash is a great alternative that will also provide a similar taste and texture.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a lovely flavor. If you’re looking for a cheaper option, you can substitute with Pecorino Romano, or use a dairy-free alternative if you’re vegan.
Breadcrumbs: They are optional but add an extra crunch. You could use panko breadcrumbs for a lighter, crispier texture, or gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed. Crushed crackers can also work!
Seasonings: The garlic powder and Italian seasoning blend really enhance the flavor. Feel free to experiment with your favorite herbs, like rosemary or thyme, depending on what you have at home.
How Do I Cut Zucchini for Baking?
Slicing zucchini properly is key to ensuring it cooks evenly. Here’s how!
- First, wash your zucchinis well and trim off the ends.
- Next, cut each zucchini in half lengthwise. Then, slice each half into thick sticks about 1/2 inch wide.
- This shape allows them to get tender while achieving a nice crispness on the outside. Remember, the thicker the slices, the longer they will need to bake!
Feel free to adjust the thickness based on your preference, but keep them consistent for even cooking!
Easy Baked Parmesan Zucchini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 medium zucchinis
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional for extra crunch)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes of prep time and 15–20 minutes of baking time. In total, expect to spend around 30–35 minutes whipping up this tasty side dish that everyone will love!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first! Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will help make the zucchini crispy. While it’s heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a light greasing so the zucchini doesn’t stick.
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
Take your washed zucchinis and cut off both ends. Slice each zucchini lengthwise into thick sticks, about 3-4 inches long. These will be the perfectly sized pieces for baking—easy to eat and packed with flavor!
3. Mix the Coating:
Grab a large mixing bowl. In it, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs (if you want that extra crunch), garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir it all together to mix the seasoning evenly.
4. Coat the Zucchini:
Drizzle the olive oil over the zucchini sticks in a separate bowl and toss them gently to coat them evenly. Now, add the zucchini sticks to the Parmesan mixture and toss them again until they’re well coated on all sides. Make sure every piece gets that cheesy goodness!
5. Bake the Zucchini:
Arrange the coated zucchini sticks in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Pop them into the oven for about 15–20 minutes. Make sure to turn them halfway through baking to ensure they get golden and crispy all around.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once they are tender and the cheese crust looks golden brown, take them out of the oven. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve immediately as a delicious side dish or snack. Enjoy your crispy, savory zucchini sticks!
This recipe is perfect for packing in nutrients while still being super tasty. Enjoy every bite!
FAQ for Easy Baked Parmesan Zucchini
Can I Use Other Vegetables Instead of Zucchini?
Absolutely! You can substitute zucchini with other vegetables such as yellow squash, eggplant, or even carrots. Just remember that cooking times might vary depending on the vegetable, so keep an eye on them!
Can I Prepare This Recipe in Advance?
Yes, you can prep the zucchini sticks ahead of time! Just coat them in the Parmesan mixture and store them in the fridge for up to 2 hours before baking. When you’re ready, bake them straight from the fridge, adding a couple of extra minutes if needed to ensure they’re heated through.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover baked zucchini in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. This will help keep them crispy!
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply swap the regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs, or omit them entirely. The zucchini will still be delicious with just the Parmesan cheese for flavor.
