Oven-baked zucchini slices with parmesan are a simple yet flavorful side dish or snack. They are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with the savory richness of parmesan cheese. This recipe is quick, easy to prepare, and perfect for showcasing the natural flavor of zucchini.
1. Oven Baked Zucchini Slices With Parmesan Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchini, sliced into 1/4 to 1/2-inch rounds
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan (pre-shredded is also fine)
Instructions
Prepare the Zucchini
Wash the zucchini thoroughly and pat them dry with a paper towel. Slice them into rounds, keeping the thickness between 1/4 and 1/2 inch.
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil to prevent sticking.
Season the Zucchini
Place the zucchini slices in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle them with olive oil and toss until evenly coated. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste, ensuring each slice is seasoned on both sides.
Add the Parmesan
Arrange the zucchini slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Generously sprinkle the grated parmesan over each slice, covering the tops completely.
Bake the Zucchini
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the parmesan is golden and bubbly, and the zucchini is tender. For extra crispiness, turn on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye to avoid burning.
Serve
Remove the zucchini slices from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. They are best enjoyed warm.
2. Tips For Perfect Oven Baked Zucchini Slices
Choose Fresh Zucchini
Look for zucchini that are firm and have smooth, unblemished skin. Fresh zucchini will hold their shape better and taste sweeter after baking.
Slice Evenly
Keeping the zucchini slices uniform in thickness ensures they cook evenly. Slices that are too thin may burn, while slices that are too thick may remain undercooked.
Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet
Arrange the zucchini slices in a single layer with space between each slice. Overlapping or overcrowding can cause them to steam instead of bake, resulting in soggy slices.
Use Freshly Grated Parmesan
Freshly grated parmesan melts better and provides a richer flavor compared to pre-packaged varieties. However, pre-shredded parmesan can also work if you’re short on time.
Broil for Crispiness
Switching to the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes of baking helps the parmesan achieve a golden, crispy finish. Keep a close eye on the zucchini to prevent burning during broiling.
Pat the Zucchini Dry
Zucchini naturally holds a lot of moisture. After washing, pat them dry with a paper towel to reduce excess water, which can make the baked slices soggy.
3. What To Serve With Oven Baked Zucchini Slices
Oven-baked zucchini slices with parmesan are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of dishes. Here are some serving suggestions:
Baked Chicken or Fish
Serve alongside grilled chicken breasts, salmon, or tilapia for a light and healthy meal. The crispy zucchini complements the protein beautifully.
Pasta Dishes
Pair the zucchini slices with creamy Alfredo pasta, spaghetti with marinara sauce, or a simple garlic butter pasta for a well-rounded meal.
Steak or Lamb
These zucchini slices make an excellent side dish for hearty proteins like steak or lamb chops, adding a fresh, cheesy contrast.
Salads
Add the zucchini slices to a mixed green salad or serve them on the side. They also work well with grain-based salads like quinoa or couscous.
Dipping Sauce
Serve the zucchini with a side of marinara sauce, garlic aioli, or ranch dressing for dipping. This makes them a great appetizer or snack.
Oven-baked zucchini slices with parmesan offer a delicious combination of simple ingredients and bold flavors. With the right tips and serving pairings, this dish can quickly become a favorite for family dinners or casual gatherings.
