This Garlic Parmesan Roasted Zucchini is a tasty veggie side that’s super easy to make. With a sprinkle of garlic and a generous dusting of Parmesan, it’s hard not to love!
I can’t resist crispy edges and cheesy goodness! 😄 Pair it with your favorite main dish, and prepare for some happy taste buds. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in those greens!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh medium zucchinis are ideal for this recipe. If zucchinis aren’t available, try using yellow squash or eggplant for a different taste and texture.
Olive Oil: This adds great flavor and helps the spices stick. If you’re looking for a substitute, avocado oil is a good choice since it has a high smoke point.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for its strong flavor. If you only have garlic powder, go ahead and use 1 teaspoon for a quicker option, though fresh will give a richer taste.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan is classic here, but if you prefer, pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast can work as a vegan alternative. Nutritional yeast adds a cheesy flavor without dairy.
Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs give the best crunch, but regular breadcrumbs will still work. If you want a gluten-free option, use crushed gluten-free crackers instead.
How Do I Get the Zucchini Crispy and Tender at the Same Time?
Getting zucchini crispy on the outside while being tender on the inside can be tricky. It all comes down to a few key steps:
- Cut the zucchini in half and score the flesh lightly to allow the oil and seasoning to permeate, enhancing flavor and ensuring even cooking.
- Brush on the garlic-oil mixture generously. Don’t be shy with it! Extra oil can help achieve that lovely golden crust.
- Press the Parmesan and breadcrumbs firmly onto the zucchini. This helps create a nice crust as it bakes.
- Avoid overcrowding the baking dish; they need space for air to circulate. If they’re too close, they’ll steam rather than roast.
- Keep an eye on them in the oven! Roasting them at 400°F for 25-30 minutes should give you the results you want, but ovens can vary.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Roasted Zucchini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Zucchini:
- 4 medium zucchinis
For the Garlic Mixture:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Panko for extra crunch)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious side dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to roast in the oven, making it ready in just about 40 minutes total. Perfect for a quick and tasty addition to any meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature will help the zucchini roast perfectly, giving you that nice golden topping.
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
Next, wash your zucchinis thoroughly to remove any dirt. Slice them in half lengthwise, and carefully make shallow diagonal cuts on the flesh side without cutting all the way through. This scoring will help the flavors soak in and create a lovely texture!
3. Make the Garlic Mixture:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. This fragrant mixture will add a wonderful flavor to your zucchini.
4. Brush the Zucchini:
Using a brush or a spoon, generously brush the garlic and olive oil mixture over the cut sides of the zucchini halves. Make sure to coat them well for maximum flavor!
5. Add the Topping:
In another bowl, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the zucchini halves, pressing it down gently so it sticks well.
6. Bake the Zucchini:
Place the zucchini halves in a baking dish, cut side up, and pour any leftover olive oil mixture over them. This will keep them moist while they cook. Roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they’re tender and the topping is golden brown and crispy.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once the zucchini is done roasting, take it out of the oven and let it cool slightly. Sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley on top before serving for a pop of color and flavor.
Enjoy your delicious Garlic Parmesan Roasted Zucchini as a side dish or a light snack!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! If you don’t have Parmesan on hand, you can substitute with any hard cheese like Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano. For a creamier texture, try using mozzarella or cheddar, but keep in mind that the flavor profile will change slightly.
What Can I Substitute for Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have breadcrumbs, you can use crushed crackers or panko, which gives a nice crunch. For a gluten-free option, almond flour or cornmeal can also work well. Just adjust the quantity to your desired texture!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prep the zucchini and the seasoning mixture ahead of time. Just keep the zucchini covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before roasting. However, for the best texture, it’s recommended to bake it fresh just before serving.
How to Store Leftover Roasted Zucchini?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes for a nice warm-up and to retain some crunch.
