Crispy Baked Parmesan Zucchini Recipe
This Crispy Baked Parmesan Zucchini recipe is a delicious and healthy side dish featuring tender zucchini slices coated with garlic, Italian herbs, and freshly grated parmesan cheese. Baked to golden perfection, these crispy zucchini rounds make a perfect snack, appetizer, or accompaniment to any meal. The quick and simple preparation produces a crunchy, flavorful treat that’s low in carbs and packed with flavor.
- Author: Maya
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish, Snack, Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Low Fat
Zucchini
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
Seasonings and 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
Optional Garnishes
- Chopped parsley
- Lemon zest
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly spray with olive oil to prevent sticking. Rinse the zucchinis and slice into even 1/4-inch rounds. Pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps the coating stick and ensures crispiness.
- Season and Toss: Place zucchini slices in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, sea salt, and black pepper. Toss until evenly coated. Add most of the grated parmesan cheese, reserving 2 to 3 tablespoons for later, and gently toss again so the cheese adheres to the zucchini.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Lay zucchini slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet without overlapping. Even spacing allows them to roast and crisp evenly. Sprinkle the reserved parmesan cheese evenly over the tops of the slices for a golden, crispy finish.
- Bake to Crispy Perfection: Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 22 minutes. Halfway through baking, flip the slices to ensure both sides become golden and crisp. They are done when the cheese is golden brown and the edges start to curl slightly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool for 1-2 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley, lemon zest, or red pepper flakes if desired. Serve immediately while hot and crispy.
Notes
- Use freshly grated parmesan cheese for better melting and crispiness.
- Do not overcrowd the baking sheet to prevent steaming; spread slices out evenly.
- If desired, add gluten-free breadcrumbs mixed with parmesan for extra crunch.
- Pat zucchini slices dry thoroughly before seasoning to remove moisture.
- Use a wire rack on the baking sheet for better air circulation and crispier results.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat leftovers in the oven or air fryer at 375°F for about 5 minutes to restore crispiness; avoid microwaving.
- Serve as a snack, side dish with grilled proteins, in grain bowls, or with dips like marinara or Greek yogurt.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approximately 1/4 of recipe)
- Calories: 115 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 270 mg
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 5 g
- Fiber: 1.5 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 7 mg
Keywords: baked zucchini, parmesan zucchini, crispy zucchini, healthy zucchini recipe, low carb side dish, easy zucchini snack, vegetarian, gluten free option