Introduction
Looking for a healthy and delicious snack or side dish? These crispy parmesan zucchini rounds are the perfect solution! They’re incredibly easy to make, require minimal ingredients, and deliver a satisfying crunch with a savory parmesan flavor. Whether you’re trying to sneak in more veggies or simply want a tasty treat, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite. This recipe is naturally low-carb, keto-friendly, and can easily be adapted to be gluten-free. Get ready for a simple and delicious recipe that will turn even zucchini skeptics into believers!
Making Crispy Parmesan Zucchini Rounds
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 medium zucchini, sliced into ¼-inch rounds
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon dried Italian herbs (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and ensures easy cleanup.
- Prepare the zucchini: Wash and slice the zucchini into even, ¼-inch thick rounds. Using uniform slices ensures they cook evenly.
- Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, toss the zucchini rounds with olive oil, parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian herbs (if using), salt, and pepper. Make sure the zucchini is evenly coated with the parmesan mixture.
- Arrange on baking sheet: Arrange the zucchini rounds in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding to allow them to crisp up properly.
- Bake to perfection: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the parmesan cheese is golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye on them towards the end to prevent burning.
- Cool and serve: Let the zucchini rounds cool slightly on the baking sheet before serving. This helps them to crisp up even further.
Tips for Extra Crispy Zucchini Rounds
- Remove excess moisture: Zucchini has a high water content. To help the rounds crisp up, sprinkle them with salt after slicing and let them sit for 10-15 minutes. Pat them dry with a paper towel before tossing with the other ingredients. This draws out excess moisture.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding steams the zucchini instead of allowing it to crisp. Bake in batches if necessary.
- Use freshly grated parmesan: Freshly grated parmesan cheese melts and crisps better than pre-shredded.
- Broil for extra crispiness: For the last minute or two of baking, you can broil the zucchini rounds to get an extra crispy and browned topping. Watch them closely to avoid burning!
Variations and Additions
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Cheesy Goodness: Experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, cheddar, or a blend of Italian cheeses.
- Herbal Infusion: Use fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme for added flavor.
- Breadcrumb Coating: For an even crispier coating, mix the parmesan cheese with panko breadcrumbs.
- Vegan Option: Substitute the parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast and a vegan hard cheese alternative.
Conclusion
These crispy parmesan zucchini rounds are a simple, healthy, and incredibly satisfying snack or side dish. With just a few ingredients and easy steps, you can transform ordinary zucchini into a flavorful and addictive treat. Whether you’re looking for a low-carb option, a way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet, or simply a delicious and easy recipe, these zucchini rounds are sure to please. So, grab your zucchini and get ready to enjoy a crispy, cheesy, and healthy delight!
