Roasted Zucchini with Parmesan Recipe
Introduction
Roasted zucchini with Parmesan is a simple and delicious side dish that brings out the natural sweetness of zucchini with a crispy, cheesy topping. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners or as a flavorful addition to any meal.
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchini, cut into ½-inch-thick rounds
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- ½ teaspoon sea salt, plus more to taste
- ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 450°F with a rack in the center position.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, toss the zucchini rounds with the olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until evenly coated.
- Step 3: Arrange the zucchini in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet, then sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
- Step 4: Bake for 5 minutes, then switch the oven to the broiler setting on High. Continue to broil until the cheese turns golden brown and the zucchini is tender, about 2 to 3 minutes. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
Tips & Variations
- Try adding a sprinkle of dried Italian herbs or red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melting and flavor.
- For an extra crispy topping, mix the Parmesan with a little panko breadcrumbs before baking.
Storage
Store leftover roasted zucchini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through. To keep the cheese crispy, reheat briefly under the broiler.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use yellow squash instead of zucchini?
Yes, yellow squash is a great substitute and will roast similarly with delicious results.
How do I prevent the zucchini from becoming too watery?
Cutting the zucchini into thicker rounds helps reduce excess moisture. Also, roasting at a high temperature concentrates flavors and improves texture.
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Roasted Zucchini with Parmesan Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Roasted Zucchini with Parmesan is a quick and delicious side dish featuring tender zucchini rounds coated with olive oil and seasoned with garlic powder, salt, and pepper, then topped with golden, melted Parmesan cheese. Perfectly roasted in the oven until tender and lightly crisp, it offers a flavorful and satisfying way to enjoy this versatile vegetable.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 2 medium zucchini, cut into ½-inch-thick rounds
Seasonings & Oil
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- ½ teaspoon sea salt, plus more to taste
- ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 450°F (232°C) and place a rack in the center position to ensure even roasting.
- Season the zucchini: In a large bowl, combine the zucchini rounds with extra-virgin olive oil, ½ teaspoon sea salt, freshly cracked black pepper, and garlic powder. Toss until all pieces are evenly coated.
- Arrange on baking sheet: Transfer the seasoned zucchini in a single layer onto a rimmed sheet pan to allow proper air circulation and even cooking.
- Add Parmesan topping: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the arranged zucchini rounds.
- Roast the zucchini: Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven and bake for 5 minutes.
- Broil to finish: After 5 minutes, switch the oven setting to the broiler on High. Continue baking until the Parmesan cheese becomes golden brown and the zucchini is tender, approximately 2 to 3 minutes. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
Notes
- Cut zucchini evenly into ½-inch rounds for uniform cooking.
- Using the broiler at the end creates a crispy, golden cheese topping—monitor closely to avoid burning.
- Can be served as a side dish or healthy snack.
- Adjust salt to taste depending on your dietary preferences.
- For extra flavor, fresh herbs like thyme or basil can be added before roasting.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Roasted zucchini, Parmesan zucchini, baked zucchini recipe, easy vegetable side dish, healthy zucchini recipe
