Zucchini Parmesan Baked Crisps – Easy & Healthy Side Dish And Dinner Recipe!

Looking for a tasty and healthy snack or side dish? Zucchini parmesan baked slices are just what you need! These crispy, cheesy zucchini slices are not only delicious but also super easy to make and require only 10 minutes of preparation! They’re a great way to use up those extra zucchinis from your garden or the farmers’ market, and they’re a hit with both kids and adults! Trust me, once you try them, you’ll want to make them all the time!

The beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity. You only need fresh zucchinis, grated parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs (which are totally optional – if you want them crispier), and some basic seasonings. Slice the zucchinis into thin rounds, coat them in a mixture of parmesan and breadcrumbs, and bake them until they’re golden and crispy. The result? A flavorful, crunchy treat that’s way healthier than traditional fried snacks! The parmesan adds a delicious cheesy flavor, and the breadcrumbs give the zucchini a perfect crunch!

They’re also perfect as an appetizer or a healthy snack! Pair them with marinara sauce or a simple garlic aioli for dipping, and you’ve got a crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for parties or casual get-togethers!

Making these zucchini slices is also a fun activity to do with family or friends!

Whether you’re looking to add more veggies to your diet or just want a new way to enjoy zucchini, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Give it a try and enjoy the delicious, cheesy crunch of zucchini parmesan baked slices!

Why You’ll Absolutely Love This Recipe?

• Healthy and Delicious: The crispy, cheesy coating makes the zucchini slices incredibly tasty, appealing to even picky eaters who might not usually love vegetables.
• Simple and Quick: With just a few basic ingredients and easy steps, you can whip up a batch in no time, perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers.
• Versatile: These zucchini slices can be served as a snack, side dish, or appetizer, making them a hit at any meal or event. Pair them with dips like marinara or garlic aioli for added flavor.
• Family-Friendly: This recipe is fun to make with family or friends, and everyone will enjoy munching on the final product, making it a delightful and engaging kitchen activity.

Ingredients You Need

• Zucchinis: Fresh and sliced into rounds; provides a healthy and low-calorie base for the dish.
• Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated; adds a rich, savory flavor and helps create a crispy coating.
• Olive oil (or melted butter): A high-quality olive oil provides flavor and richness while also preventing the zucchini from adhering to the baking sheet. This olive oil is often regarded as the best economical yet high-quality option. Alternatively, you can use melted butter and get an even richer flavor.
• Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the zucchini and coating.
• Black pepper: Adds a touch of spice and depth to the flavor profile.
• Garlic powder (optional): Provides an extra layer of savory, aromatic flavor.
• Breadcrumbs (optional): Regular or panko; gives the zucchini slices a satisfying crunch when baked.

How To Make: Step-By-Step

Step 1: Preheat the oven:

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.

Step 2: Prepare the zucchini:

• Slice the zucchinis into 1/4-inch thick rounds.

Step 3: Coat the zucchini:

• Lightly brush or drizzle the zucchini slices with olive oil or melted butter.
• If using breadcrumbs, dip each slice into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the coating sticks.
• Add salt, black pepper, paprika, and other desired seasonings if using.

Step 4: Arrange on the baking sheet:

• Place the coated zucchini slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
• Add grated Parmesan on top of each slice.

Step 5: Bake:

• Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the zucchini slices are golden brown and crispy.
• Flip the slices halfway through the baking time for even browning.

Step 6: Serve:

• Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
• Serve warm with marinara sauce or garlic aioli for dipping, if desired.

Tips & Ideas For Baked Zucchini Parmesan Slices

• Even Slicing: Ensure zucchini slices are uniformly cut for even cooking and consistent texture. Would you rather have softer zucchini? Cut it into circles that are narrower and about 1/4 inch thick. Do you prefer your roasted zucchini more firmly? Trim it thicker, to about 1/2 inch.
• Parchment Paper: Line baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
• Seasoning Variations: Experiment with herbs like thyme or basil in the breadcrumb mixture for added flavor.
• Cheese Blend: Mix parmesan with other cheeses like mozzarella or asiago for diverse flavor profiles.
• Double Coating: Enhance crispiness by dipping zucchini in beaten egg before coating with breadcrumbs and cheese.
• Dipping Sauces: Serve with ranch dressing, tzatziki, or balsamic glaze alongside marinara or aioli.
• Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh parsley or basil for added color and freshness.