Baked Parmesan Zucchini
Baked Parmesan Zucchini is a quick, healthy, and delicious side dish or snack that highlights the natural flavor of zucchini with a crispy, cheesy topping. It’s low-carb, gluten-free, and perfect for weeknight meals or party platters.
Ingredients
- 3 medium zucchini sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: red pepper flakes lemon zest, chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven
- Preheat to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat for easy cleanup.
- Slice the Zucchini
- Cut into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Uniform slices ensure even baking.
- Toss with Oil and Seasoning
- In a large bowl, toss zucchini with olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Arrange and Sprinkle
- Lay zucchini slices in a single layer (not overlapping!) on the prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle Parmesan evenly over the top.
- Bake
- Bake for 18–22 minutes, until the cheese is golden and zucchini is tender. For extra crispiness, broil for 2 minutes at the end—but watch closely!
- Serve
- Garnish with parsley, red pepper flakes, or a squeeze of lemon juice. Serve hot for the best texture.
Notes
- Freshness matters: Zucchini is the star here, so the fresher the better. Look for firm, bright green zucchini without soft spots.
- Parmesan placement: Want extra crunch? Sprinkle a bit of Parmesan underneath each slice and on top before baking. This creates a golden cheesy crust underneath!
- Make it a meal: Layer over pasta, tuck into sandwiches, or serve alongside grilled meats and seafood.
