Zucchini recipe is a simple and healthy dish that brings out the natural flavors of the vegetable. Zucchini is sliced into rounds or strips, then seasoned with olive oil, garlic, and herbs before being baked to golden perfection. It’s a perfect side dish or a light snack that’s both low in calories and rich in nutrients.
To elevate the flavor, you can sprinkle grated cheese or breadcrumbs over the zucchini before baking, adding a crispy texture to each bite. The result is a delicious combination of tender inside and a crispy, savory crust. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick dinner or a summer meal.
Not only is baked zucchini a nutritious option, but it’s also incredibly versatile. You can adjust the seasonings based on your preferences, making it a customizable dish for any occasion. It’s an excellent way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet without compromising on taste.
Baked Zucchini Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 pounds of zucchini approximately 6 small or 4 medium, cut into 1/2-inch thick rounds
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves minced (about 2 teaspoons)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley finely chopped
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare Baking Sheet: (Optional) For easier cleanup, line a rimmed 18x13-inch baking sheet with aluminum foil. Lightly coat with non-stick cooking spray.
- Make Oil Mixture: In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt (about 3/4 to 1 tsp), and pepper (about 1/2 tsp).
- Coat Zucchini: Place zucchini slices in a large bowl. Pour the olive oil mixture over the zucchini and toss to coat evenly.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Spread the zucchini slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Top with Parmesan cheese.
- Bake: Bake the zucchini in the preheated oven for 7-9 minutes, or until the zucchini begins to soften.
- Move to Broiler: Remove the zucchini from the oven and adjust the oven rack closer to the broiler. Preheat the broiler.
- Broil: Broil the zucchini for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown and the zucchini is tender. Watch closely to prevent burning.
- Serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve warm.
