This Garlic Parmesan Roasted Zucchini is a tasty side dish that’s simple to whip up! Just toss fresh zucchini with garlic, olive oil, and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese, then roast until golden.
I love how the zucchini gets all crispy and the garlic smells amazing while baking. It’s like a warm hug for your tummy! Perfect for dinner or a snack. 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh, medium-sized zucchini works great here. If zucchini isn’t available, try yellow squash or even eggplant for a different texture.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nice salty kick. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, consider nutritional yeast—it’s a great cheesy substitute!
Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs give a light, crispy texture. Regular breadcrumbs can work too, but for extra crunch, you could use crushed cornflakes or even ground nuts.
Olive Oil: This gives moisture and flavor. If you’re not a fan of olive oil, avocado oil is a suitable alternative that tastes nice too!
How Do I Get the Zucchini to Cook Evenly and Stay Tasty?
To ensure the zucchini cooks well and absorbs flavors, it’s all about the slicing technique. Make those deep cuts, but don’t cut all the way through—that fan shape allows the breadcrumb mixture to get into the zucchini, making every bite flavorful!
- Slice the zucchini lengthwise, then notch the halves deeply. This increases the surface area for the topping.
- Coat with olive oil to lock in moisture while it roasts. This helps to soften the zucchini without it getting mushy.
- Press the breadcrumb mixture gently into the cuts. This step makes sure the flavors penetrate the zucchini.
- Watch the baking time closely. Once it’s golden brown, take it out! Slightly undercooking keeps it tender.
Garlic Parmesan Roasted Zucchini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Zucchini:
- 4 medium zucchini
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
For the Topping:
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish (Optional):
- Fresh parsley or basil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Garlic Parmesan Roasted Zucchini recipe will take you about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake, that’s around 30-35 minutes total. Perfect for a quick side dish that’s healthy and full of flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, turn your oven on to 400°F (200°C) so it’s nice and hot when your zucchini is ready to go inside.
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
Wash the zucchini to remove any dirt, then cut off both ends. Use a sharp knife to slice each zucchini in half lengthwise. Next, make deep cuts along the length of each half, but don’t cut all the way through! This creates a fan effect that looks beautiful when roasted.
3. Make the Topping:
In a small bowl, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and some salt and pepper. This mix will add lots of yummy flavor to your zucchini!
4. Prepare the Zucchini for Baking:
Drizzle the olive oil over the open zucchini halves, using your hands or a brush to make sure they are well coated. Now take your breadcrumb mixture and sprinkle it evenly over the zucchini, pressing down gently so it sticks nicely.
5. Bake the Zucchini:
Carefully place the zucchini in a baking dish. If you’d like, you can drizzle a little more olive oil on top for extra flavor. Now pop it in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the zucchini is nice and tender, and the topping is golden brown.
6. Finish and Serve:
Once baked, take the zucchini out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. If you want, sprinkle some fresh parsley or basil on top before serving. Enjoy warm as a wonderful side dish!
## FAQ Section for Garlic Parmesan Roasted Zucchini
Can I Use Different Cheese in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While Parmesan adds a great flavor, you can substitute it with Pecorino Romano for a stronger taste or even a blend of mozzarella and cheddar for a creamier texture. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change a bit!
What If I Don’t Have Breadcrumbs?
No worries! You can use crushed crackers, oats, or even ground almonds for a gluten-free option. If using oats, make sure they’re rolled oats for the best texture. Just remember to adjust the seasonings since some alternatives may be saltier than traditional breadcrumbs.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just pop them in the microwave for a minute or two, or reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This helps maintain the crunchiness of the topping!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the zucchini and toppings ahead of time. Just coat the zucchini and sprinkle the mixture on top, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready, just pop them in the oven as directed. This makes it perfect for meal prep!
