If you’re looking for a tasty and healthy snack, these Crispy Baked Parmesan Zucchini Fries are a must-try. With a crunchy exterior and a tender inside, they are perfect for satisfying your cravings without the guilt. Plus, they’re simple to make with just a few ingredients. Get ready to enjoy a delicious twist on traditional fries!
Steps
- Preheat your oven to 450°F and optionally line a broiler-safe baking sheet with foil for easier cleanup.
- Slice two medium zucchinis into rounds, adjusting thickness based on your preference for softer or firmer zucchini.
- Arrange the zucchini slices on the baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and toss to coat them evenly.
- Spread the slices out into a single layer and season generously with salt and pepper.
- Top each slice with freshly grated parmesan cheese, ensuring each piece is covered.
- Bake the zucchini on the center rack for about 10 minutes until they are just fork-tender.
- Switch the oven to broil on high and broil the zucchini for 2 to 3 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and browned.
- Remove from the oven, serve immediately, and enjoy your cheesy baked zucchini.
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4 to 1/2-inch rounds
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese (pre-shredded is also acceptable)
Nutritional Values
Calories: 424 kcal | Total Fat: 31 g | Saturated Fat: 9 g | Trans Fat: 0 g | Cholesterol: 34 mg | Sodium: 1070 mg | Total Carbohydrates: 16 g | Dietary Fiber: 4 g | Sugars: 10 g | Protein: 27 g
FAQ
- Can I use pre-shredded Parmesan instead of freshly grated?
- Yes, pre-shredded Parmesan can be used in this recipe. While freshly grated Parmesan melts and browns more effectively, pre-shredded cheese will work just fine.
- How do I prevent the zucchini from becoming too soft?
- If you prefer firmer zucchini, slice it into thicker rounds, about 1/2-inch thick. This will help maintain a firmer texture during baking.
- Is it necessary to use the broiler at the end of the recipe?
- Using the broiler is recommended as it adds an extra toasty and delicious layer to the cheese. However, keep a close watch, as food under the broiler can burn quickly.
- What can I serve with Baked Parmesan Zucchini?
- This dish pairs well with various meals, such as tomato soup, pesto grilled cheese sandwiches, sausage pasta, or buttered noodles. It also makes a great snack with marinara or pizza sauce for dipping.
- Can I add other seasonings to this dish?
- While a simple seasoning of salt and pepper works well, you can experiment with flavors by adding a bit of garlic powder or Italian seasoning for an extra kick.
Tips
- Slice Thickness Matters: Choose your preferred texture by adjusting the thickness of the zucchini slices. For a softer result, aim for 1/4-inch slices, while thicker 1/2-inch slices will yield a firmer bite.
- Don’t Overlook the Broiler: After roasting, switch to the broiler for a few minutes to make the parmesan extra toasty. Keep a close watch to prevent burning, as broilers can be unpredictable.
- Enhance with Extra Flavors: While salt and pepper are sufficient, consider experimenting with garlic powder or Italian seasoning for added depth.
- Creative Serving Options: Pair the baked zucchini with leftover pizza or marinara sauce for dipping, or add pepperoni under the cheese before baking for a fun twist.
Equipment
- Broil-safe baking sheet – A baking sheet that can safely withstand the high heat of a broiler.
- Aluminum foil – If you want to make cleaning up easier, having foil to line your baking sheet is helpful.
- Mandoline slicer – Useful for evenly slicing the zucchini into rounds, especially if you want precision and uniformity in thickness.
