This Garlic Parmesan Roasted Zucchini is a tasty and healthy side dish that brings out all the best flavors! With just a sprinkle of Parmesan and garlic, it becomes golden and yummy.
Honestly, it’s hard to resist that cheesy goodness! I like to serve it with dinner, and sometimes I sneak a few pieces while cooking. Who can blame me? 😄
Making this dish is a breeze. Just slice the zucchini, toss it with the ingredients, and roast. Perfect for those nights when you want something quick yet flavorful!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh, medium-sized zucchini is ideal here. If you’re out of zucchini, try using yellow squash or eggplant, which can also roast beautifully.
Olive Oil: This adds a great flavor, but if you’re looking for a substitute, avocado oil or melted butter works well too. I sometimes prefer a mix of both for a richer taste.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan is key for that cheesy crust. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the cheese!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for its strong flavor, but you can use garlic powder in a pinch. Just remember that the taste won’t be as intense.
Italian Seasoning: It’s optional, but if you don’t have any, mix dried basil, oregano, and thyme instead for a similar flavor blend.
How Do I Create the Perfect Hasselback Zucchini?
Creating that beautiful hasselback cut allows the oil and cheese to penetrate, making every bite delicious! Here’s how to do it:
- Place the zucchini on a cutting board. Hold a wooden spoon on each side to prevent cutting all the way through.
- Carefully slice the zucchini half-lengthwise, then make evenly spaced shallow cuts across the top.
- The cuts should be about 1/4 inch apart, creating small pockets for flavor.
This method gives your zucchini a lovely presentation and helps it cook evenly! Just take your time to avoid cutting through completely.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Roasted Zucchini?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 medium zucchini
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and approximately 35-40 minutes to cook. You’ll enjoy delicious Garlic Parmesan Roasted Zucchini in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your zucchini roast evenly and become tender.
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
Wash the zucchini thoroughly. Slice each zucchini in half lengthwise, creating two long halves. To add a special twist, make shallow cuts across each half (but don’t cut all the way through!)—this technique is called the hasselback effect, which helps the flavors soak in.
3. Make the Garlic-olive Oil Mixture:
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning if you choose to use it. Mix everything together well.
4. Brush the Zucchini:
Using a brush or a spoon, generously apply the garlic-olive oil mixture all over each zucchini half. Be sure to let some of the mixture seep into the cuts for maximum flavor.
5. Add the Parmesan Cheese:
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the zucchini halves, making sure to fill the cuts with cheese for that crunchy topping!
6. Bake the Zucchini:
Place the zucchini halves cut side up in a baking dish. Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. This initial bake helps soften the zucchini.
7. Finish Baking:
After 25 minutes, carefully remove the foil. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is golden and crispy.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Take the dish out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. You can garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a lovely touch. Now your Garlic Parmesan Roasted Zucchini is ready to be savored as a delicious side dish!
Can I Use Other Vegetables Instead of Zucchini?
Absolutely! While zucchini is delightful, you can substitute with eggplant, summer squash, or even asparagus. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary; for example, asparagus will cook faster, so you might want to reduce the baking time.
How Do I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
To make a dairy-free version, simply omit the Parmesan cheese and use a dairy-free cheese substitute. Nutritional yeast is also a great option for a cheesy flavor without dairy!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore some of the original texture, or use the microwave for a quicker option.
Can I Prepare These Zucchini Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the zucchini halves in advance! Brush them with the garlic-olive oil mixture and sprinkle with cheese, then store covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just pop them in the oven as directed without needing to adjust the cooking time.
