Randy Chandler
Baked zucchini with parmesan cheese is a quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying veggie side dish. It is a great way to use up any extra zucchini you may have lying around and can be made in about 10 minutes. The recipe is simple: coat zucchini slices in olive oil, sprinkle with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, and top with grated parmesan cheese. Bake in the oven until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is golden brown and bubbly. This dish is low carb, keto-friendly, gluten-free, and vegetarian, making it a perfect side for any gathering or family meal.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 350°F to 450°F |
| Time | 5-15 minutes, then 2-6 minutes under the broiler |
| Ingredients | Zucchini, olive oil (or avocado oil/MCT oil), salt, pepper, garlic powder, Parmesan cheese |
| Optional Ingredients | Thyme, oregano, basil, parsley, smoked paprika, onion powder |
| Texture | Crispy, tender, golden brown |
| Serving | Side dish, snack, pasta |
| Diet | Low carb, keto, gluten-free, vegetarian |
| Storage | Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days, reheat in the oven |
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What You'll Learn
Preparing the zucchini
Once sliced, place the zucchini in a large bowl and drizzle with olive oil (or avocado oil or MCT oil if you don't have olive oil). Toss the zucchini until it is well-coated, then spread the slices out on a rimmed baking sheet in a single layer. If you want to avoid a soggy zucchini, you can use a cooling rack coated with non-stick spray placed on top of the baking sheet.
Next, sprinkle the zucchini with your desired seasonings. Salt and pepper are standard, but you can also add garlic powder and other herbs like thyme, oregano, or basil. If you want an extra cheesy dish, you can also sprinkle on some parmesan cheese at this stage.
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Preparing the cheese
Once the cheese mixture is ready, it's time to assemble the dish. Place the sliced zucchini on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and then sprinkle the herbed cheese mixture on top. You can also toss the zucchini with olive oil and the herb mixture in a bowl before placing it on the baking sheet to ensure an even coating. The amount of cheese you sprinkle on the zucchini depends on your preference. If you like your zucchini with a lighter coating, use less cheese, and if you prefer a thicker, more generous coating, sprinkle on more cheese.
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Baking the zucchini
Next, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup. Spread the zucchini slices out on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, ensuring they don't overlap. Sprinkle the slices with freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano cheese; pre-grated cheese will work, but freshly grated will melt and brown better. You can also add other herbs and spices to taste, such as thyme, oregano, basil, or smoked paprika.
Place the baking sheet on the center rack of the oven and bake for about 5 minutes. Then, turn on the broiler and broil for an additional 2 to 6 minutes, keeping a close eye on the zucchini to prevent burning. The zucchini is ready when the cheese is golden brown and bubbly. Serve immediately and enjoy!
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Storing leftovers
To maintain the crispiness of the zucchini, reheat them in the oven at 400°F for about 5-10 minutes, or until they are heated through and the cheese is bubbly. If you prefer softer zucchini, you can also reheat them in the microwave until they are warmed through.
It is important to note that the zucchini should be cooled before storing to prevent condensation, which can make them soggy. Additionally, ensure that the container is airtight to maintain freshness and prevent the zucchini from drying out.
Now, you can enjoy your delicious baked zucchini with parmesan cheese leftovers for a few days!
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Serving suggestions
Baked zucchini with parmesan cheese is a versatile dish that can be served as a side or a snack. It can be paired with a variety of main courses and is especially delicious when served with a dip. Here are some serving suggestions:
As a Side Dish
This baked zucchini dish makes a great side for a variety of meals. It pairs well with sandwiches, making it a perfect addition to a simple lunch. It can also be served as a side for dinner, adding a healthy and tasty veggie option to your plate. The dish is a great substitute for pasta, providing a low-carb option with a similar texture.
As a Snack
These zucchini bites are perfect as a snack, especially when served with a dip. Try them with leftover pizza or marinara sauce for a tasty treat. For an extra indulgent snack, add some chopped pepperoni under the parmesan before baking.
For a Crowd
This baked zucchini dish is an excellent choice when cooking for a crowd. It is a crowd-pleasing veggie side that even picky eaters will enjoy. The dish is easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, making it a stress-free option for gatherings or family meals.
With a Twist
While the classic combination of zucchini and parmesan is delicious, you can also experiment with additional ingredients. Try adding herbs such as thyme, oregano, basil, or marjoram to the zucchini for a flavour boost. For a subtle smokiness, add smoked paprika. You can also try using different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or cottage cheese, to create a unique flavour profile.
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