This Garlic Parmesan Roasted Zucchini is a tasty side dish that’s super simple to make! The zucchini gets nicely tender while the garlic and Parmesan give it a wonderful flavor. Yum!
I always enjoy making this dish because it’s a great way to get in some veggies without feeling like I’m missing out. Plus, who doesn’t love the smell of garlic roasting? 😄
Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh medium zucchinis are key for this dish. If zucchinis aren’t available, you can use yellow squash, which has a similar texture and taste!
Garlic: I love using fresh garlic for its strong flavor. If you have garlic powder instead, use about a teaspoon, but fresh is always better when you can manage it!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nutty flavor. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast or a vegan Parmesan substitute for a cheesy taste without the dairy.
Breadcrumbs: I recommend panko for that extra crunch. Regular breadcrumbs work too, but you could also use crushed crackers for a different texture.
Olive Oil: Olive oil enriches the dish, but if you’re out, any light oil like avocado or canola can fit the bill.
How Do I Make Sure the Topping Stays On the Zucchini?
The key technique to keep your garlic-Parmesan mixture on the zucchini is all in how you prepare them. Make sure to slice your zucchinis lengthwise and cut evenly spaced slits without going all the way through. This creates pockets to hold the delicious mixture.
- Mix your garlic, cheese, and breadcrumbs well, so each ingredient sticks together.
- When you spoon the mixture into the cuts, press it in gently. This helps to secure it!
- Drizzle remaining olive oil over the top after arranging them to help everything crisp up when roasting.
With these tips, your Garlic Parmesan Roasted Zucchini will turn out tasty and perfectly topped every time!
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Roasted Zucchini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Zucchini:
- 4 medium zucchinis
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of preparation time and 25-30 minutes to roast in the oven. In total, you should set aside around 40 minutes to enjoy your delicious Garlic Parmesan Roasted Zucchini!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your zucchini begins roasting right away and develops a perfect golden color.
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
Wash and dry your zucchinis thoroughly. Cut off the ends, then slice each zucchini lengthwise down the middle. To create a fan-like effect, make a series of evenly spaced cuts in each half, being careful not to cut all the way through the zucchini.
3. Mix the Topping:
In a mixing bowl, combine the minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well mixed, so it forms a delicious topping.
4. Stuff the Zucchini:
Using a spoon, carefully fill the cuts of the zucchinis with the garlic-Parmesan mixture. Press it in lightly to make sure it sticks and gets into all the little grooves.
5. Arrange and Drizzle:
Place the stuffed zucchinis in a baking dish with the cut sides facing up. If there’s any remaining olive oil in the bowl, drizzle it over the zucchinis for extra flavor.
6. Roast in the Oven:
Put your baking dish in the preheated oven and roast the zucchinis for 25-30 minutes. They are ready when the zucchinis are tender and the topping is golden brown.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once they’re done, take the zucchinis out of the oven and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve your Garlic Parmesan Roasted Zucchini warm as a tasty side dish or snack!
Enjoy this savory, crunchy delight!
Can I Substitute the Zucchini with Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! You can use vegetables like yellow squash, eggplant, or bell peppers. Just ensure to adjust the roasting time based on the thickness of the veggies; softer vegetables may take less time than zucchinis.
What If I Don’t Have Panko Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs will work just fine, though they might not give the same crunchy texture. You can also crush some crackers or use crushed cornflakes as a substitute for an added crunch.
How Should I Store Leftover Zucchini?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, sprinkle with a little olive oil and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to help regain some crispiness.
