This Garlic Parmesan Roasted Zucchini is a true veggie delight! Tossed in garlic, olive oil, and topped with golden Parmesan, it’s crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
Trust me, it’s so good you might find yourself eating more zucchini than you ever thought possible! 😂 I enjoy serving it as a nice side to my dinner or just as a tasty snack.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Medium zucchinis are the star here. If you don’t have them, you can use yellow squash. Both have a similar texture, but the flavor might differ slightly. Try to pick zucchinis that are firm and not too big for the best results.
Olive Oil: This adds richness and helps with roasting. If you’re out of olive oil, avocado or melted coconut oil works well, too. I often use avocado oil for its high smoke point and light flavor!
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic infuses a great aroma. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can substitute, but use only about 1/2 teaspoon to avoid overpowering the dish.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan brings a lovely salty flavor. For a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste or use vegan cheese if preferred. My personal favorite is a bit of pecorino cheese for a sharper flavor!
Italian Seasoning: This blend enhances the dish’s flavor beautifully, but feel free to use individual herbs like oregano, thyme, or basil. It’s great to tailor it to your personal taste!
How Do I Cut Zucchini for the Best Roasting Result?
Cutting zucchinis properly helps them roast evenly and look appealing. The key is to create slits without cutting all the way through.
- Start with washed zucchinis. Trim off both ends.
- Stand the zucchini on its end. Use a sharp knife to make vertical cuts about 1-inch apart down the length of each zucchini, stopping before you reach the bottom.
- Be careful not to slice through! This allows the oil and seasoning to seep in while creating a lovely fan shape.
This technique not only makes the zucchinis look beautiful but also enhances the flavor as they roast. Enjoy the process and experiment with different seasonings!
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Roasted Zucchini?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 medium zucchinis
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and 25-30 minutes for baking. So, overall, you’re looking at around 40 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick and easy to make a delicious side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating, take a large baking dish and grease it lightly with a bit of olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Zucchinis:
Wash the zucchinis thoroughly and cut off the ends. Next, slice vertical slits in each zucchini, making sure not to cut all the way through. This will create a lovely fan effect that helps the flavors soak in while cooking.
3. Make the Flavorful Mixture:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. This will be the delicious dressing for your zucchinis!
4. Brush the Zucchinis:
Place the slitted zucchinis in your greased baking dish. Using a brush or a spoon, generously spread the olive oil mixture over each zucchini, ensuring it seeps into all the cuts for maximum flavor.
5. Add the Parmesan Cheese:
Next, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the zucchinis. Make sure the cheese settles into the slits, so each slice gets a cheesy goodness when cooked!
6. Bake the Zucchinis:
Put the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the zucchinis are tender, and the cheese has turned golden brown and bubbly.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once out of the oven, let them cool for a moment. Then, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color and flavor. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Garlic Parmesan Roasted Zucchini!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While Parmesan is delicious, you can substitute it with Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor or even a blend of mozzarella and cheddar for a creamier texture. Just keep in mind that different cheeses will alter the final taste of the dish slightly.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Garlic?
No worries! If you don’t have fresh garlic on hand, you can use garlic powder. A good rule of thumb is to use about 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder for every clove of garlic. Just mix it into the olive oil mixture instead of using minced garlic!
Can I Prep This Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the zucchini ahead! Slice and prepare the zucchinis, then brush with the olive oil mixture and sprinkle with cheese. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to bring them to room temperature before placing them in the oven for even cooking.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover Garlic Parmesan Roasted Zucchini in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to maintain the crispy cheese topping.
