This Garlic Parmesan Roasted Zucchini is a simple and tasty side dish. With fresh zucchini coated in garlic, butter, and topped with Parmesan, it’s like a flavor party on your plate!
You can’t go wrong with the crispy edges and cheesy goodness. I always steal a bite or two before it even hits the table. Don’t judge me! 😄
I love how quick it is to make—just toss everything together and roast! It pairs well with almost any meal and makes veggies feel fancy and fun.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchinis: Medium zucchinis are perfect for this recipe as they roast beautifully. If you can’t find them, summer squash or even eggplant can work as a substitute. They’ll offer a slightly different flavor but still taste great!
Olive Oil: Olive oil brings richness to the dish. For a different flavor, try avocado oil or melted butter. Both will add nice depth, though butter may change the dish’s overall taste slightly.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is key for flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work; just use about 1/4 teaspoon for each clove needed. Remember, fresh really shines in this dish!
Parmesan Cheese: I love using grated Parmesan for its strong flavor. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, consider vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast for added nuttiness.
Breadcrumbs: Italian seasoned breadcrumbs give extra flavor, but regular breadcrumbs or panko will do. Just sprinkle in some dried herbs like basil or thyme if using plain breadcrumbs.
How Can I Get My Zucchini Perfectly Roasted and Crispy?
Roasting zucchini to the perfect tenderness while getting that crispy topping requires a few basic steps. Ensuring the zucchinis hold their shape is key to getting that crispy outside.
- Preheat your oven really well to 425°F (220°C). A hot oven helps achieve the crispy texture.
- Cut zucchinis lengthwise into halves or quarters. Don’t cut all the way through! This keeps them together for stuffing.
- Brush the zucchini with the oil and garlic mix thoroughly. Make sure they’re coated well so they roast nicely.
- Keep an eye on the topping while baking—if it gets too dark, loosely cover with foil.
Enjoy the balance of crunchy and tender in each bite!
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Roasted Zucchini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Zucchini:
- 4 medium zucchinis
For the Olive Oil Mixture:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
For the Topping:
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian seasoned)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Garlic Parmesan Roasted Zucchini takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll spend about 40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and tasty side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This will ensure it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to roast the zucchini.
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
Wash and dry the zucchinis. Cut off both ends of each zucchini. Now slice each one lengthwise into halves or quarters depending on how thick they are, making sure not to cut all the way through. You want to keep the base intact for stuffing!
3. Mix the Olive Oil Seasoning:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if you’re using them). This mixture will add flavor to the zucchini when brushed on.
4. Brush the Zucchini:
Place the zucchini halves in a baking dish, cut side up. Use a brush or a spoon to generously coat the zucchini with your olive oil and garlic mixture. Make sure they are well-covered!
5. Add the Topping:
In another bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs. Sprinkle this tasty mixture evenly over the top of the zucchini, making sure every piece gets some of that cheesy goodness.
6. Bake the Zucchini:
Put the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake the zucchini for about 25-30 minutes, or until they are tender and the topping is golden brown and crispy.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once baked, remove your delicious Garlic Parmesan Roasted Zucchini from the oven. Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color and added freshness. Serve warm and enjoy!
Enjoy your tasty dish—great as a side or a delicious healthy snack!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While Parmesan gives a great flavor, you can substitute with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste, or even mozzarella for a creamier texture. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change a bit!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the zucchini and the toppings in advance. Assemble everything until step 6, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if needed!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to keep the topping crispy.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! This recipe works great with other veggies like bell peppers, eggplant, or cherry tomatoes. Just be aware that different vegetables may require varying cooking times, so check for tenderness as you roast.
