Description
This Crispy Baked Zucchini recipe features tender zucchini slices coated in a savory mixture of olive oil, Italian seasoning, panko breadcrumbs, and parmesan cheese, then baked to golden perfection and broiled to achieve a delightful crispy topping. It’s a quick and easy side dish that offers a tasty, healthier alternative to fried zucchini.
Ingredients
Scale
Zucchini
- 2 zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-1/2 inch slices
Seasoning & Coating
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning
- 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to prepare for baking the zucchini slices evenly.
- Prepare Zucchini: Place the sliced zucchini into a large mixing bowl, ensuring all slices are ready for the coating.
- Mix Coating: In a medium bowl, combine olive oil, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, panko breadcrumbs, and grated parmesan cheese. Stir well until the mixture is fully blended.
- Coat Zucchini: Pour the parmesan breadcrumb mixture over the zucchini slices and toss thoroughly to coat each piece. Add a little more olive oil if the mixture seems dry to ensure even coverage.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Spread the coated zucchini slices in a single layer on a large baking sheet to allow for proper air circulation and crisping.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 4-5 minutes to start cooking through the zucchini.
- Broil: Switch the oven to broil and cook the zucchini for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the breadcrumb topping is golden brown and the cheese has melted, creating a crispy texture.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and enjoy your crispy baked zucchini immediately as a delicious side dish or snack.
Notes
- Use fresh zucchini for the best texture and flavor.
- Panko breadcrumbs provide extra crispiness compared to regular breadcrumbs.
- You can adjust the seasoning to taste, such as adding garlic powder or paprika.
- Serve immediately for maximum crispiness, as the coating can soften if left to sit.
- This recipe pairs well with marinara sauce or a light ranch dip.
