Crispy Parmesan Zucchini Rounds Recipe
These Crispy Parmesan Zucchini Rounds are a flavorful and healthy snack or side dish. The zucchini is coated in a savory, crispy Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, then baked to golden perfection. This recipe is easy to make, low-carb, and can be served with your favorite dipping sauce, like marinara or ranch.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch) oats
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 large egg, beaten
2 tablespoons olive oil (optional, for drizzling)
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray to prevent the zucchini rounds from sticking.
2. Prepare the Coating:
In a shallow bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
In a separate bowl, beat the egg.
3. Coat the Zucchini Rounds:
Dip each zucchini round into the beaten egg, ensuring it is fully coated.
Next, dip the egg-coated zucchini round into the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to ensure it sticks well to the zucchini.
Place the coated zucchini rounds in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Continue this process until all zucchini slices are coated.
4. Bake the Zucchini Rounds:
Drizzle the coated zucchini rounds with olive oil for extra crispiness (optional). Alternatively, you can spray a light coating of cooking spray.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the zucchini is tender and the coating is golden brown and crispy.
5. Serve:
Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce, like marinara, ranch, or a garlic aioli.
Notes and Tips:
Choosing Zucchini: Opt for medium-sized zucchinis for even cooking. Large zucchinis may have more seeds and a waterier texture, which can make them less crispy. If using larger zucchini, consider scraping out the seeds before slicing.
Breadcrumb Alternatives: You can use whole wheat breadcrumbs or gluten-free breadcrumbs if you prefer a healthier or gluten-free version. Panko breadcrumbs are great for an extra crunchy texture.
Add Spices for Extra Flavor: Feel free to experiment with additional spices like paprika, red pepper flakes, or fresh herbs like basil or thyme. Adjust the seasonings to match your taste preferences.
Make Ahead: These zucchini rounds are best served immediately to maintain their crispiness. However, you can prep the zucchini rounds and coat them in advance, then refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake.
Air Fryer Option: For a quicker and equally crispy alternative, use an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C), arrange the zucchini rounds in a single layer (working in batches if needed), and cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Freezing: If you want to make a big batch ahead of time, you can freeze the coated zucchini rounds before baking. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag or airtight container. When ready to cook, bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Dipping Sauces: These crispy zucchini rounds are delicious with a variety of dips. Try them with marinara, ranch, tzatziki, or a lemon-garlic aioli for an added flavor boost.
These Crispy Parmesan Zucchini Rounds are a perfect snack, appetizer, or side dish, offering a satisfying crunch with every bite. They’re healthy, easy to make, and bursting with flavor!