Garlic Parmesan Roasted Zucchini is a tasty side dish that’s super easy to make! With fresh zucchini tossed in garlic and topped with parmesan, it’s both crunchy and cheesy.
You’ll love how this dish brings out the best in zucchini. Plus, it’s hard to eat just one piece—I always find myself grabbing a few extra! 😂
I usually enjoy this roasted as a side for any meal. It’s simple to prepare and brings a nice healthy touch to my dinner table. Give it a try—you won’t be sorry!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh medium-sized zucchini is perfect for this dish, but if you can’t find zucchini, yellow squash makes a great substitute! It’s slightly sweeter but will still roast well.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan brings a nice sharp flavor. You could swap it with Pecorino Romano for a tangy twist or use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Breadcrumbs: I recommend using panko for extra crunch. If panko isn’t available, regular breadcrumbs work too. You can even make your own by toasting stale bread and crumbling it!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for that strong aroma, but garlic powder can be used in a pinch—just use about 1/4 teaspoon for less intensity.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil works wonderfully here, but any mild cooking oil will do if you’re looking for something different.
Italian Seasoning: You can use dried oregano instead, or just grab your favorite herbs like thyme or basil for those Mediterranean flavors.
How Do I Ensure the Zucchini is Perfectly Roasted?
Roasting zucchini requires a bit of care to achieve tenderness without overcooking. First, make sure to slice the zucchini properly to create those diagonal cuts; this allows the topping to seep into the veggie, adding flavor.
- Preheat the oven: Always preheat your oven first to get that nice crispy exterior.
- Don’t crowd the pan: Give each zucchini half enough space in the baking dish so they roast rather than steam.
- Watch the time: Keep an eye on the zucchini as they roast. If they’re browning too quickly, you can cover them with foil for the last 10 minutes.
After roasting, let them cool for just a minute before serving. This helps the topping set even more! Enjoy your tasty side dish!
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Roasted Zucchini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Zucchini:
- 4 medium zucchini
For the Topping:
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or dried oregano)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to roast in the oven. In total, you’re looking at around 40 minutes from start to finish for a delicious side dish that’s full of flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oven and Baking Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating up, get your baking dish ready by lightly greasing it with some cooking spray or lining it with parchment paper. This will help prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
2. Preparing the Zucchini:
Wash the zucchini under cool water, and trim off both ends. Cut each zucchini in half lengthwise, creating long halves that are perfect for roasting. To add flavor throughout, use a sharp knife to make diagonal cuts across each half, but be careful not to cut all the way through; you want them to hold their shape!
3. Making the Topping:
In a small bowl, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, olive oil, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This mixture will create a deliciously crispy topping for your zucchini.
4. Adding the Topping:
Now it’s time to spread the goodness! Evenly distribute the topping mixture over each zucchini half, making sure to press it into those diagonal cuts you made. This way, each bite will be packed with flavor!
5. Roasting the Zucchini:
Place the zucchini halves in the prepared baking dish, cut side up. If you like a little extra richness, drizzle a tiny bit more olive oil over the tops. Roast them in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until they are tender and the topping is golden brown and crispy. The smell will be amazing!
6. Garnishing and Serving:
Once the zucchini is done, carefully take it out of the oven (it will be hot!). If you like, sprinkle some fresh parsley or basil on top for a pop of color and flavor. Serve them warm as a tasty side dish and enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While Parmesan adds a delicious flavor, you can substitute it with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste, or even mozzarella for a creamier texture. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change slightly depending on your choice!
What Can I Substitute for Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have breadcrumbs on hand, you can use crushed crackers, cornflakes, or even ground almonds for a gluten-free option. Just make sure to adjust the quantity based on how coarse or fine the alternative is.
How Do I Store Leftover Roasted Zucchini?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat in the oven to preserve the crispiness of the topping, or microwave if you’re short on time—though the topping may lose some crunch!
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Recipe?
Yes! Feel free to experiment by adding other vegetables like bell peppers, eggplant, or even asparagus alongside the zucchini. Just note that cooking times may vary, so check for tenderness as needed!
