Sliced Baked Zucchini is a simple yet delicious side dish or snack that celebrates the natural flavors of zucchini while adding a crispy and flavorful coating. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for showcasing the freshness of this versatile vegetable.
Why Make Sliced Baked Zucchini
Sliced Baked Zucchini offers a healthier alternative to traditional fried snacks while still delivering on taste and texture. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a satisfying dish that’s both nutritious and delicious.
How to Make Sliced Baked Zucchini
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Zucchini: Wash the zucchini thoroughly and slice them into thin rounds, approximately 1/4 inch thick, ensuring uniformity in size to promote even baking.
- Coat with Olive Oil: In a bowl, gently toss the zucchini slices with olive oil until they are evenly coated. This will help the breadcrumb mixture adhere to the zucchini during baking.
- Prepare the Coating Mixture: In another bowl, combine Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, salt, oregano, basil, and minced garlic. This flavorful mixture will create a crispy and savory coating for the zucchini slices.
- Coat the Zucchini Slices: Dip each zucchini slice into the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to coat both sides evenly. Ensure that the zucchini slices are fully coated for maximum flavor and crunch.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the coated zucchini slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are not overlapping. This will allow the zucchini slices to bake evenly and become crispy on all sides.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake the zucchini slices in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, flipping them halfway through the baking time to ensure even browning. The zucchini slices should be golden brown and crispy when done.
- Serve with Gusto: Once baked, remove the zucchini slices from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving. Arrange them on a platter and serve them as a tasty appetizer, side dish, or snack. Enjoy the crispy goodness of these baked zucchini slices!
Serving Suggestions
Sliced Baked Zucchini is delicious on its own or served with a dipping sauce such as marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or tzatziki for added flavor. It pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or pasta dishes for a complete meal.
Storage Info
Any leftover baked zucchini slices can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven or toaster oven to maintain their crispiness before serving.
Techniques or Tips
- For extra crispy zucchini slices, you can place a wire rack on top of the baking sheet before arranging the coated slices. This will allow air to circulate around the zucchini slices, resulting in a more evenly baked and crispy texture.
- Feel free to customize the seasoning mixture with your favorite herbs and spices. You can also experiment with different types of cheese for added flavor variation.
Variation
- For a healthier option, you can use whole wheat breadcrumbs or panko breadcrumbs instead of traditional breadcrumbs.
- Add a kick of heat by incorporating red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper into the seasoning mixture.
- Experiment with different vegetables such as eggplant, squash, or sweet potatoes for a variety of flavors and textures.
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