Zucchini has long been a summertime favorite, offering a versatile and nutritious addition to any meal. And when you combine the fresh, vibrant flavor of zucchini with the nutty richness of Parmesan cheese, you get a truly mouthwatering side dish that’s sure to delight your taste buds. Introducing the Baked Parmesan Zucchini – a simple, crowd-pleasing recipe that transforms ordinary zucchini into a crispy, flavorful treat.
The Wonders of Zucchini
Zucchini is often hailed as a superfood, and for good reason. This humble vegetable is packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can benefit your overall health. From supporting a healthy immune system to promoting heart health, zucchini is a versatile and nutritious addition to any diet. And when you bake it to perfection with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, you unlock a whole new world of culinary possibilities.
Ingredients for Baked Parmesan Zucchini
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a few pantry staples, you can create a delightful side dish that’s both healthy and indulgent. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Zucchini – Choose fresh, firm zucchinis that are free of blemishes. Slicing them into sticks or rounds will help them cook evenly and achieve that perfect crispy texture.
- Olive Oil – This healthy fat helps the zucchini sticks get that lovely golden-brown color and crispy edges.
- Garlic Powder – A touch of garlic powder adds a savory depth of flavor that complements the Parmesan beautifully.
- Italian Seasoning – Feel free to use your favorite Italian seasoning blend or a mix of dried herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme.
- Salt and Pepper – A sprinkle of salt and pepper enhances the natural flavors of the zucchini and Parmesan.
- Parmesan Cheese – The star of the show! Grated Parmesan cheese adds a savory, nutty flavor and a delightful crunch to the baked zucchini.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Baked Parmesan Zucchini
Ready to get baking? Follow these simple steps for perfectly crispy and flavorful Baked Parmesan Zucchini:
- Preheat the Oven – Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Prepare the Zucchini – Wash and dry the zucchinis, then slice them into sticks or rounds, about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick.
- Season the Zucchini – In a large bowl, toss the zucchini sticks with olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until they’re evenly coated.
- Add the Parmesan – Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the seasoned zucchini, making sure to distribute it evenly.
- Bake to Perfection – Arrange the zucchini in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the Parmesan is golden and crispy.
- Serve and Enjoy – Remove the baked zucchini from the oven and serve it warm, garnished with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan or a spritz of lemon juice, if desired.
Tips for Perfectly Baked Parmesan Zucchini
To ensure your Baked Parmesan Zucchini turns out absolutely delicious, here are a few helpful tips:
- Choose the Right Zucchini – Look for firm, unblemished zucchinis that are medium in size. Avoid overly large or watery zucchinis, as they may become soggy when baked.
- Cut Evenly – Slice the zucchini into uniform pieces, whether they’re sticks or rounds, to ensure even cooking.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet – Arrange the zucchini in a single layer on the baking sheet, leaving a bit of space between each piece. This will help them get crispy on all sides.
- Experiment with Seasonings – Feel free to get creative with your seasoning blends. Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick or sprinkling on some dried oregano or basil for an extra Italian flair.
- Broil for Extra Crispiness – If you want an even crispier Parmesan topping, broil the zucchini for the last 2-3 minutes of baking, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
The Nutritional Benefits of Zucchini
In addition to its delicious flavor, zucchini is an incredibly nutritious vegetable. It’s low in calories, high in fiber, and packed with essential vitamins and minerals. Some of the key health benefits of zucchini include:
- Heart Health – Zucchini is rich in antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin, which can help reduce the risk of heart disease and lower cholesterol levels.
- Improved Digestion – The high fiber content in zucchini promotes a healthy digestive system and can help with issues like constipation and bloating.
- Immune System Support – Zucchini is an excellent source of vitamin C, which plays a crucial role in supporting the body’s immune function.
- Blood Sugar Management – With its low glycemic index, zucchini can be a great addition to a balanced diet for those looking to manage their blood sugar levels.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Baked Parmesan Zucchini is a versatile side dish that pairs beautifully with a wide range of main courses. Try serving it alongside grilled chicken, roasted salmon, or your favorite pasta dish for a complete and satisfying meal. It also makes a delightful appetizer or snack when served with a creamy dipping sauce, such as ranch or tzatziki.
For a heartier meal, you can even incorporate the Baked Parmesan Zucchini into a vegetarian main dish, such as a zucchini noodle bowl or a quinoa and veggie stir-fry. The possibilities are endless when you have this flavorful, healthy side dish in your repertoire.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients do I need to make Baked Parmesan Zucchini?
To make Baked Parmesan Zucchini, you will need the following ingredients:
- Fresh zucchini
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Olive oil
- Garlic powder
- Italian seasoning (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How do I prepare the zucchini before baking?
To prepare the zucchini, first wash and dry the zucchini thoroughly. Then, slice the zucchini into rounds or sticks, about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. This will help them cook evenly. You can also scoop out some of the seeds if you prefer a softer texture.
What temperature should I bake the zucchini at?
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Baking at this temperature helps the zucchini become tender and allows the Parmesan cheese to get crispy and golden.
How long do I need to bake the zucchini?
Bake the zucchini for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and lightly browned, and the zucchini is tender. Keep an eye on them, as cooking time may vary based on the thickness of your slices and your oven.
More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy
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- Cheesy Bacon Ranch Stuffed Chicken Bombs
- BBQ Bacon Chicken Bites
Conclusion
Baked Parmesan Zucchini is a simple, yet utterly delicious side dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends. With its crispy, flavorful exterior and tender, juicy interior, this recipe is a true crowd-pleaser. Not only is it easy to make, but it’s also packed with nutritional benefits thanks to the humble yet mighty zucchini. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and get ready to bake up a batch of this irresistible Baked Parmesan Zucchini today!
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Baked Parmesan Zucchini Sticks: Easy & Delicious Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Baked Parmesan Zucchini is a simple, yet utterly delicious side dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends. With its crispy, flavorful exterior and tender, juicy interior, this recipe is a true crowd-pleaser. Not only is it easy to make, but it’s also packed with nutritional benefits thanks to the humble yet mighty zucchini. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and get ready to bake up a batch of this irresistible Baked Parmesan Zucchini today!
Ingredients
- 2 medium Zucchini – Fresh and firm, sliced into sticks or rounds.
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil – To achieve a golden-brown color and crispy edges.
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder – For savory depth of flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning – Optional, or use a mix of dried herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme.
- Salt and Pepper – To taste, enhancing the natural flavors.
- 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese – The star ingredient for a savory and nutty flavor.
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven – Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Prepare the Zucchini – Wash and dry the zucchinis, then slice them into sticks or rounds, about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick.
- Season the Zucchini – In a large bowl, toss the zucchini sticks with olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Add the Parmesan – Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the seasoned zucchini, distributing it evenly.
- Bake to Perfection – Arrange the zucchini in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and the Parmesan is golden and crispy.
- Serve and Enjoy – Remove from the oven and serve warm, garnished with extra Parmesan or a spritz of lemon juice if desired.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, consider broiling for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.
- Feel free to experiment with different seasonings to customize the flavor profile.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 5mg