Mediterranean Roasted Zucchini Rounds with Honey & Cranberries
This dish is light, colorful, and full of sweet-savory flavor. Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of zucchini, while honey adds a glossy caramelized finish. Dried cranberries give little bursts of tartness, and optional feta or nuts add a Mediterranean twist. It works beautifully as a side dish, appetizer, or even a light vegetarian snack.
Total Time: 25 minutes
Prep: 10 minutes
Cook: 15 minutes
Ingredients
3 medium zucchinis, sliced into ½-inch rounds
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt & black pepper, to taste
2 tbsp honey
¼ cup dried cranberries
2 tbsp crumbled feta (optional)
1 tbsp chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Fresh mint or parsley, for garnish
Instructions
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Prepare zucchini: Place zucchini rounds in a bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and toss to coat evenly.
Roast: Arrange zucchini rounds in a single layer on the baking sheet. Roast for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway, until lightly golden and tender.
Finish: Drizzle honey over the hot zucchini. Sprinkle with dried cranberries. If using, add crumbled feta and chopped walnuts or pecans.
Garnish & serve: Top with fresh mint or parsley. Serve warm as a side dish, or let cool slightly for a room-temperature salad-style plate.
Tips & Variations
Cheese Swap: Instead of feta, try goat cheese for a creamier texture or shaved Parmesan for a salty bite.
Nut Options: Walnuts and pecans add earthiness, but pistachios or almonds also pair beautifully with honey and cranberries.
Extra Flavor: Add a pinch of cinnamon, smoked paprika, or chili flakes before roasting for a warm or spicy kick.
Make It Vegan: Replace honey with maple syrup or date syrup.
Serving Idea: Arrange zucchini rounds on a platter, drizzle with honey, and sprinkle toppings for a stunning appetizer presentation.
Meal Pairing: Serve alongside grilled chicken, lamb skewers, or fish for a Mediterranean-inspired dinner.
Crunch Factor: Roast a little longer at a slightly higher heat (425°F / 220°C) if you prefer more caramelized, slightly crisp zucchini edges.
Cranberry Alternatives: Dried cherries, apricots, or golden raisins make great substitutes for cranberries.
Q&A
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes. You can roast the zucchini a few hours in advance and reheat gently in the oven before serving. Add honey, cranberries, and toppings just before serving to keep everything fresh.
Q: Can I use frozen zucchini?
A: Fresh zucchini works best for texture. Frozen zucchini tends to release water and become mushy when roasted.
Q: What other vegetables can I use?
A: Eggplant, carrots, or sweet potatoes can be roasted the same way and topped with honey and cranberries for a similar flavor balance.
Q: How do I make this recipe lighter?
A: Simply omit the cheese and nuts. The zucchini, honey, and cranberries already provide plenty of flavor.
Q: Can I serve this cold?
A: Yes. This dish can be enjoyed warm, at room temperature, or even chilled as part of a Mediterranean salad spread.
Nutrition
(per serving, 1 of 4)
(Approximate values without optional cheese and nuts)
Calories: ~130
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 14g
Protein: 2g
Sodium: 90mg
(With feta and nuts, add about 60–70 extra calories and 4g protein per serving.)
Conclusion
This Mediterranean Roasted Zucchini Rounds with Honey & Cranberries recipe is a quick, vibrant side that balances savory, sweet, and tangy flavors. The honey caramelizes the zucchini, while the cranberries and optional toppings bring color and texture. It’s simple to prepare, versatile enough to serve hot or cold, and pairs well with just about any main dish. A great way to elevate humble zucchini into something special.