This Garlic Parmesan Roasted Zucchini is a tasty side dish that brings out the best in fresh zucchini. With a sprinkle of garlic and a sprinkle of parmesan, it’s sure to please!
Honestly, it’s hard to resist those golden edges! I always make too much because my family can’t get enough. Serve it hot and watch it disappear in seconds!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Medium zucchinis are great here. If you can’t find them, yellow squash works well too. Cutting them in half and creating a fan shape helps with even cooking and flavor absorption.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan is key for that salty, cheesy flavor. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast offers a similar taste and can be sprinkled on top for richness.
Breadcrumbs: I prefer using panko for its extra crunch, but regular breadcrumbs work fine too. If you’re gluten-free, look for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crush up some cornflakes as a substitute.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic provides a bold punch. If you’re short on fresh garlic, about a teaspoon of garlic powder can be used, but fresh is really best for flavor.
How Can I Achieve Perfectly Roasted Zucchini?
Roasting zucchini to perfection takes some attention. You want them tender but not mushy, with a nice golden topping. Here’s how:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high heat helps create that crispy top.
- Cut the zucchini down the middle and make deep cuts (not all the way through) to allow the topping to sink in and flavors to meld.
- Laying the zucchini cut side up helps it absorb all the seasoning and oil.
- Watch closely in the last few minutes of roasting to catch that golden brown topping. If needed, broil for a minute at the end to enhance browning.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Roasted Zucchini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Zucchini:
- 4 medium zucchinis
For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (panko preferred)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Garlic Parmesan Roasted Zucchini recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to roast in the oven. In total, you’ll need around 40 minutes to enjoy this wonderful dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will help your zucchinis roast evenly and get that beautiful golden finish!
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
Give the zucchinis a good wash and cut off the ends. Slice each zucchini in half lengthwise. Make some cuts down each half, but don’t cut all the way through to create a lovely fan effect. This allows the topping to really infuse into the zucchini!
3. Make the Topping:
In a small bowl, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir it well until everything is nicely combined. You want a mix that clumps together a bit but still crumbles nicely on the zucchini!
4. Assemble the Zucchini:
Place the zucchini halves into a baking dish with the cut side facing up. Gently spread the cheese and breadcrumb mixture into the cuts of each zucchini. Be generous—this is where all the flavor comes from!
5. Add Extra Flavor:
Drizzle any remaining olive oil over the zucchini for extra flavor. You can sprinkle on a bit more salt and pepper if you’d like, but the topping is already pretty flavorful!
6. Roast the Zucchini:
Put the baking dish in the preheated oven and roast for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the zucchini is tender and the topping has turned a lovely golden brown. It’s hard to resist that wonderful aroma!
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once out of the oven, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top to add a pop of freshness and color. Serve warm, and enjoy your flavorful Garlic Parmesan Roasted Zucchini!
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute grated Parmesan with other cheeses like Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor, or even mozzarella for a gooey texture. Just keep in mind the cheese’s melting point and adjust the quantity to your taste!
Can I Make This Recipe with Different Vegetables?
Yes! While zucchini is delicious, you can use this method with other vegetables like eggplant, bell peppers, or even asparagus. Just adjust the cooking time as needed, since different veggies may roast at varying rates.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any 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, or until warmed through. This will help regain some of the crispiness!
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can assemble the zucchini and topping mixture the day before. Cover it and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. When you’re ready to cook, just pop it in the oven, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through.
