This Garlic Parmesan Roasted Zucchini is a tasty twist on a classic veggie! With a sprinkle of garlic and parmesan cheese, every bite is full of flavor and goodness.
You won’t believe how easy it is to make! Just toss the zucchini in the mix, pop it in the oven, and voilà! Serve it as a side and watch it disappear like magic. 🪄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchinis: These are the star of the dish! Look for medium-sized zucchinis as they hold up well when baking. If you can’t find zucchinis, you can use eggplant or yellow squash as interesting alternatives.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor. If you don’t have fresh, garlic powder is a decent substitute—use about 1/8 teaspoon per clove. Roasted garlic can also offer a sweeter, milder taste.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is my preference since it melts beautifully. If you’re looking for a substitute, try Pecorino Romano for a stronger flavor or Nutritional Yeast if you want a vegan option.
Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs provide extra crunch, but regular breadcrumbs work too. If you need a gluten-free option, use crushed nuts or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Herbs: Italian herbs enhance the dish’s flavor. If you don’t have a mix, a little bit of dried oregano, thyme, or basil can suffice. Fresh herbs add a brighter taste, so consider using them if available.
How Do I Create Those Delicious Hasselback Cuts?
The hasselback slicing technique is key to achieving a visually appealing and flavorful zucchini. It allows the stuffing to penetrate better and makes the dish look lovely, too. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by washing the zucchinis and placing them on a cutting board.
- Slice them in half lengthwise and place each half cut side down.
- Make diagonal cuts every half-inch or so, but don’t cut all the way through—leave about 1/4 inch at the bottom.
- This creates little pockets to hold the tasty garlic Parmesan filling!
Take your time with the cuts for neatness, and don’t worry if they aren’t perfect; it’ll still taste great!
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Roasted Zucchini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Zucchini:
- 4 medium zucchinis
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian herbs (oregano, thyme, or basil)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or basil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake. So in no time, you’ll be enjoying a delicious side dish that’s packed with flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake the zucchini.
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
Rinse the zucchinis under cool water and then slice each one in half lengthwise. To create a unique look, make diagonal cuts along the top of each zucchini half (hasselback style). Be careful not to cut all the way through, just create slits to hold the delicious filling!
3. Mix the Topping:
In a small mixing bowl, toss together the minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, olive oil, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix it well until everything is combined and you have a tasty topping.
4. Prepare for Baking:
Place the zucchini halves cut side up in a baking dish. Drizzle a little olive oil over the top of the zucchinis and sprinkle them with a bit of salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
5. Stuff the Zucchini:
Now, carefully stuff the garlic Parmesan mixture into the diagonal cuts of each zucchini half. Make sure to pack it tightly so every bite is bursting with flavor!
6. Bake:
Pop the baking dish into your preheated oven and let the zucchinis bake for about 25-30 minutes. They should be tender, and the topping ought to be golden brown and crispy.
7. Cool and Garnish:
Once they’re done baking, carefully remove the zucchinis from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. If you like, you can sprinkle some fresh parsley or basil on top before serving for a beautiful presentation!
Enjoy your delicious Garlic Parmesan Roasted Zucchini!
Can I Use Frozen Zucchini for This Recipe?
It’s best to use fresh zucchini for this dish, as frozen zucchini can turn mushy when baked. If you must use frozen zucchini, thaw them completely in the fridge, drain excess moisture, and pat dry before proceeding with the recipe.
What Can I Substitute for Parmesan Cheese?
If you’re out of Parmesan, you can use Pecorino Romano for a similar taste or try a dairy-free alternative like nutritional yeast for a vegan option. Just keep in mind that the flavor may differ slightly!
How to Store Leftover Zucchini?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes for the best results.
Can I Use Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! This garlic Parmesan mixture works well with other vegetables like bell peppers, eggplants, or even broccoli. Just adjust the cooking time depending on the vegetable’s size and tenderness!
