Baked Parmesan Zucchini is a simple yet incredibly delicious side dish that celebrates the natural flavors of fresh zucchini while adding a delightful crunch and cheesy goodness. It’s the perfect way to enjoy this versatile summer vegetable, and it pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses.
Ingredients:
- 4 medium zucchini
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Panko for extra crispiness)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Cooking spray (for greasing the baking sheet)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it with cooking spray.
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
- Wash the zucchini and trim off the stem ends.
- Cut each zucchini in half lengthwise, then cut each half into quarters to create spears.
3. Coat the Zucchini:
- In a large mixing bowl, drizzle the zucchini spears with olive oil. Toss to coat evenly.
4. Create the Coating Mixture:
- In a separate bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to evenly distribute the seasonings.
5. Coat the Zucchini with the Mixture:
- Take each zucchini spear and press it into the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture, making sure the coating adheres to all sides.
6. Arrange on the Baking Sheet:
- Place the coated zucchini spears on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, leaving some space between each one.
7. Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the coating is golden brown and crispy.
8. Serve:
- Remove the Baked Parmesan Zucchini from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
9. Enjoy:
- Serve this delicious side dish as an accompaniment to your favorite meals. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy the fresh, wholesome taste of zucchini with a delightful crunch and cheesy flavor.
Baked Parmesan Zucchini highlights the natural flavors of this summer vegetable while adding a crispy and cheesy layer of goodness. It’s a versatile side dish that goes well with a variety of main courses and is a tasty addition to your dinner table. This recipe is a wholesome delight!