Garlic Parmesan Roasted Zucchini is a tasty side dish that’s easy to make! Fresh zucchini is sliced, tossed in olive oil, garlic, and Parmesan cheese, then roasted until golden.
This dish is a perfect way to enjoy veggies, and the garlic and cheese make it super tasty! I love serving it with my favorite pasta for a yummy meal! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: This recipe shines with fresh medium zucchinis. If you can’t find zucchini, yellow squash works well too. It’s similar in texture and flavor.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds flavor, but feel free to use regular olive oil or even avocado oil if you prefer a different taste.
Garlic: Fresh garlic brings a robust flavor. If you’re out of fresh garlic, you can use garlic powder—about 1 teaspoon should do the trick!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan is best for a nice melt and flavor. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can give a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Italian Seasoning: This blend of herbs works wonders, but if you don’t have it, you can mix dried basil, oregano, and thyme instead. Use what you have on hand.
How Do I Achieve Crispy Zucchini Topping?
Getting that perfect golden and crispy top is key for this dish! Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat your oven well—400°F (200°C) is essential for roasting.
- Score the zucchini flesh well to allow the paste to seep in. It helps with flavor and texture.
- Roast them cut side up. This way, the tops can get crispy!
- Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of roasting for the perfect brown. If they aren’t golden enough, you can broil them for 1-2 minutes at the end—but watch closely!
With these steps, you’re sure to impress with your Garlic Parmesan Roasted Zucchini!
Garlic Parmesan Roasted Zucchini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Roasted Zucchini:
- 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 will take about 10 minutes to prep and 25-30 minutes to cook. So in total, expect to spend around 40 minutes for some delicious Garlic Parmesan Roasted Zucchini!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure your zucchinis roast perfectly and get nice and crispy.
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
Wash the zucchinis thoroughly under running water. Then, slice each zucchini in half lengthwise. To enhance the flavor, score the flesh by making diagonal cuts about 1/2 inch apart, but be careful not to cut through the skin. This will let the garlic and cheese mixture seep in.
3. Make the Garlic-Parmesan Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix it all together until you have a smooth paste. This mixture is where all the flavor comes from!
4. Coat the Zucchinis:
Brush the garlic-Parmesan mixture generously over the scored zucchinis. Make sure to get it into all the cuts so every bite is flavorful.
5. Arrange for Roasting:
Place the zucchinis in a baking dish with the cut side facing up. If there’s any leftover olive oil mixture, drizzle it over the top of the zucchinis to enhance the flavor even more.
6. Roast the Zucchini:
Put the baking dish in the preheated oven and roast the zucchinis for about 25-30 minutes. You’re looking for tender zucchinis with golden brown tops that are crispy.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once they’re done, take them out of the oven and sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. Serve warm as a delicious side dish and enjoy every bite of your Garlic Parmesan Roasted Zucchini!
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese Instead of Parmesan?
Absolutely! If you want a different flavor, try using Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste, or mozzarella for a milder, creamier texture. Keep in mind that using a cheese with a higher moisture content may affect the crispiness of the topping.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
You can substitute the Parmesan cheese with a dairy-free alternative, such as nutritional yeast or a plant-based cheese. Just be sure to adjust the amount of salt in the recipe, as some dairy-free cheeses can be quite salty on their own.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Roasted Zucchini?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the zucchinis in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through, to help retain their texture.
Can I Add Other Veggies to This Dish?
Yes! Feel free to mix in other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or eggplant. Just be sure to cut them into similar sizes for even cooking. You may need to adjust the roasting time depending on the veggies you add.
