Easy Baked Zucchini Recipe: A Quick and Delicious Side Dish
If you're looking for a healthy and delicious side dish that’s quick and easy to prepare, look no further than Easy Baked Zucchini. This simple dish brings out the natural flavors of zucchini while giving it a slight crispiness that makes it irresistible.
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Whether you’re looking for a light snack, a side for your main dish, or a way to use up extra zucchini from your garden, this recipe is the perfect choice!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Healthy and Nutritious – Zucchini is low in calories, high in fiber, and packed with vitamins and minerals.
Quick and Easy – Takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish.
Versatile – Customize it with different seasonings, cheeses, or toppings.
Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a family dinner, meal prep, or a gathering, this dish is always a hit.
Ingredients
To make this delicious baked zucchini, you will need:
2 medium zucchini, sliced into rounds or sticks
2 tablespoons olive oil
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional but highly recommended)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or dried oregano, thyme, or basil)
Optional: red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Zucchini
Wash the zucchini thoroughly and pat dry. Cut them into ½-inch rounds or sticks, depending on your preference.
Step 3: Season the Zucchini
In a large bowl, toss the zucchini slices with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. If you’re using Parmesan cheese, add it at this stage for extra flavor.
Step 4: Arrange on a Baking Sheet
Lay the seasoned zucchini in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Avoid overlapping to ensure even cooking.
Step 5: Bake the Zucchini
Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the zucchini is tender and slightly crispy on the edges. If you prefer extra crispiness, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Sprinkle with more Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes, or fresh herbs for extra flavor. Serve warm as a side dish or snack.
Variations and Customization
Cheesy Delight: Add shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese in the last 5 minutes of baking for a gooey, cheesy touch.
Spicy Kick: Sprinkle chili powder or cayenne pepper for added heat.
Breaded Crunch: Coat the zucchini slices with a mixture of breadcrumbs and Parmesan before baking for a crispy texture.
Dipping Sauces: Serve with ranch dressing, marinara sauce, or a garlic aioli for extra flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I make this recipe in an air fryer?
Yes! To make air fryer zucchini, set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook for about 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through for even cooking.
2. How do I store leftover baked zucchini?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes or in the air fryer for a few minutes to retain crispiness.
3. Can I use frozen zucchini?
Fresh zucchini works best for this recipe since frozen zucchini tends to become mushy when baked. However, if using frozen zucchini, thaw and pat dry before seasoning and baking.
4. How do I prevent zucchini from getting soggy?
To avoid soggy zucchini, make sure to pat it dry before seasoning, avoid overcrowding the baking sheet, and bake at a high temperature for a short period.
5. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
6. What dishes pair well with baked zucchini?
Baked zucchini pairs perfectly with grilled chicken, fish, pasta, or even as a topping for salads and sandwiches.
Final Thoughts
Easy Baked Zucchini is a must-try recipe that’s packed with flavor, easy to make, and incredibly versatile. Whether you're looking for a healthy snack or a delicious side dish, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Try it today and enjoy the crispy, tender goodness of baked zucchini!