Are you searching for a quick, healthy, and irresistibly tasty side dish or snack? Look no further! Our Parmesan Zucchini recipe is here to delight your taste buds and make healthy eating a breeze. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe is easy to follow and delivers amazing results every time. Plus, it’s perfect for those picky eaters in your life! Get ready to fall in love with this crispy, tender, and cheesy delight.
Why You’ll Love Parmesan Zucchini
- Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps and ingredients, you can whip up this delicious dish in no time.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with vitamins, minerals, and protein, this recipe is a great way to enjoy a guilt-free snack or side.
- Perfect for Picky Eaters: Even those who usually shy away from vegetables will find it hard to resist these cheesy zucchini rounds.
- Versatile: Serve it as a side dish, a snack, or even as a low-carb appetizer at your next gathering.
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 13 minutes
- Total Time: 23 minutes
- Servings: 4
Ingredients You’ll Need
For a dish that’s as simple as it is delicious, you’ll need just a few key ingredients:
- 2 medium zucchini, sliced into 1/4 to 1/2 inch rounds
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 450°F. Line a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup.
- Prepare the Zucchini: Place the zucchini slices on the baking sheet in a single layer. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat evenly.
- Season: Sprinkle the zucchini slices generously with salt and pepper.
- Add the Cheese: Top each zucchini slice with freshly grated parmesan cheese. Be generous – the cheese is what makes these rounds so irresistible!
- Bake: Place the baking sheet on the center rack of your preheated oven and bake for about 10 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender.
- Broil: Set your broiler to high and broil for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Keep a close eye on them to avoid burning.
Tips for the Perfect Parmesan Zucchini
- Choose Fresh Zucchini: For the best flavor and texture, use fresh, firm zucchini.
- Grate Your Own Parmesan: Freshly grated parmesan cheese melts better and has a richer flavor compared to pre-grated options.
- Uniform Slices: Try to slice the zucchini as uniformly as possible. This ensures even cooking.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Give each zucchini slice enough space on the baking sheet. Overcrowding can cause them to steam instead of roast, leading to less crispiness.
Serving Suggestions
Parmesan Zucchini can be enjoyed in a variety of ways:
- As a Side Dish: Pair it with grilled chicken, fish, or steak for a complete meal.
- As a Snack: Serve it with a dipping sauce like marinara or ranch for a tasty snack.
- As an Appetizer: Impress your guests with these cheesy zucchini rounds as a low-carb appetizer at your next party.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use a different cheese? Absolutely! While parmesan is our favorite for this recipe, you can experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend of Italian cheeses.
2. How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes to regain their crispiness.
3. Can I make this recipe in an air fryer? Yes, you can! Preheat your air fryer to 400°F and cook the zucchini slices for about 8-10 minutes, or until they are golden and crispy.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the nutritional breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 153 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Protein: 9g
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 22mg
- Sodium: 445mg
- Potassium: 302mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
- Vitamin A: 412 IU
- Vitamin C: 18mg
- Calcium: 237mg
- Iron: 0.5mg
Final Thoughts
Parmesan Zucchini is not just a dish; it’s a delightful experience that combines simplicity with gourmet flavors. Its crispy, cheesy goodness is sure to win over even the most reluctant vegetable eaters. So, roll up your sleeves, grab some zucchini, and get ready to create a dish that’s as delicious as it is healthy.
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