Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Light and Delicious Parmesan Zucchini is a simple yet flavorful side dish that highlights fresh zucchini with a savory, cheesy twist. Roasted to tender perfection and topped with golden Parmesan, it’s a healthy and low-carb option that pairs well with almost any main dish.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
fresh zucchini
olive oil
grated Parmesan cheese
garlic powder
Italian seasoning
salt
black pepper
fresh parsley or basil (optional, for garnish)
directions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Wash and slice zucchini into ¼-inch thick rounds or spears.
In a bowl, toss the zucchini with olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Arrange the zucchini in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
Sprinkle evenly with grated Parmesan cheese.
Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is melted and lightly golden.
Optional: Broil for the last 1–2 minutes for extra crispiness.
Garnish with fresh herbs and serve warm.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 15–20 minutes
Total time: 25–30 minutes
Variations
Add red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
Swap Parmesan for Asiago or Pecorino for a different flavor.
Top with breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
Squeeze lemon juice over before serving for brightness.
storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the oven or air fryer to retain crispness.
Not recommended for freezing due to zucchini’s high water content.
FAQs
Can I grill instead of bake?
Yes, grill zucchini slices and top with Parmesan after cooking.
Can I use yellow squash?
Absolutely—yellow squash works just as well.
Is this keto-friendly?
Yes, it’s low in carbs and fits well into keto or low-carb diets.
How do I keep the zucchini from getting soggy?
Don’t overcrowd the pan and slice evenly for consistent cooking.
Can I prep this ahead of time?
Yes, slice and season the zucchini in advance, then bake when ready.
Conclusion
Light and Delicious Parmesan Zucchini is a quick, healthy, and flavorful side that’s easy enough for weeknights yet tasty enough to impress guests. With just a handful of ingredients, it brings out the best in zucchini—crispy, cheesy, and utterly satisfying.
Print
Light and Delicious Parmesan Zucchini
- Prep Time: 5 mins
- Cook Time: 18 mins
- Total Time: 23 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Tender zucchini slices roasted until golden and topped with Parmesan and herbs—a light, flavorful side dish.
Ingredients
- 4 medium zucchini, sliced into 1/4 inch rounds
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or basil (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, toss zucchini slices with olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Spread zucchini in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan evenly over the zucchini.
- Roast for 15–18 minutes until zucchini is tender and cheese is golden.
- Remove from oven and cool slightly. Garnish with parsley or basil if desired.
- Serve warm. Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor and texture.
- Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Broil for the last 1–2 minutes to crisp the cheese topping.
- Try with yellow squash for variety.
- Add lemon zest or juice for brightness.