Zucchini

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Zucchini

Zucchini, a versatile and mild-flavored vegetable, is the star of this simple yet delicious recipe. Garlic Parmesan Roasted Zucchini is an easy dish that can be enjoyed as a side or a light main course. This recipe enhances the natural flavor of zucchini with the rich, savory tastes of garlic and Parmesan cheese.

Ingredients:

• 4 medium zucchinis, sliced into rounds or spears
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
• Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)

Instructions:

1. Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your zucchini will roast evenly and develop a nice, golden crust.
2. Prepare the Zucchini: Wash and dry the zucchinis. Depending on your preference, you can slice them into rounds or spears. Rounds will give you a bit more surface area for the Parmesan to adhere to, while spears are easier to pick up and dip.
3. Season the Zucchini: In a large bowl, toss the zucchini slices or spears with olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, thyme, and basil. Make sure each piece is well-coated with the mixture. This step infuses the zucchini with the aromatic flavors of the herbs and garlic.
4. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the seasoned zucchini on a large baking sheet in a single layer. This allows each piece to roast evenly and prevents them from becoming soggy. If you crowd the pan, the zucchini will steam instead of roast.
5. Add the Parmesan: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the zucchini. The cheese will melt and form a crispy, flavorful crust as it bakes.
6. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the Parmesan is golden and crispy. The baking time may vary depending on the thickness of your zucchini slices or spears.
7. Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove the zucchini from the oven and let it cool slightly. For a pop of color and extra flavor, garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for a refreshing zing that complements the richness of the Parmesan.

Tips and Variations:

• Use Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh herbs on hand, such as rosemary or thyme, use them instead of dried herbs. Fresh herbs can add a more vibrant flavor to the dish.
• Add a Crunch: For an extra crunch, sprinkle some breadcrumbs mixed with a bit of melted butter over the zucchini before adding the Parmesan cheese. This will create a delicious, crispy topping.
• Spicy Kick: If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix.
• Cheese Alternatives: While Parmesan is the classic choice, you can experiment with other cheeses like Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or even a sharp cheddar for a different flavor profile.
• Zucchini Chips: For a fun variation, slice the zucchini very thinly to make zucchini chips. Follow the same seasoning process, but bake at a slightly lower temperature (375°F or 190°C) for a longer time, around 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through. This will give you a crispy, chip-like texture.
• Grilled Option: If you prefer grilling, this recipe works wonderfully on the grill as well. Simply preheat your grill to medium-high heat, place the zucchini on the grates, and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until grill marks appear. You can then sprinkle the grilled zucchini with Parmesan and let it melt slightly before serving.

Serving Suggestions:

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Zucchini pairs well with a variety of dishes. Serve it alongside grilled chicken, steak, or fish for a balanced meal. It also complements pasta dishes, especially those with a light sauce like lemon butter or pesto. For a vegetarian meal, consider serving it with a quinoa salad or a hearty grain bowl.

Storage:

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the zucchini in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. While the zucchini may lose some of its crispiness, it will still be flavorful and enjoyable.

This Garlic Parmesan Roasted Zucchini recipe is a simple yet flavorful way to enjoy this nutritious vegetable. The combination of garlic, herbs, and Parmesan creates a dish that is sure to be a hit with everyone. Whether you’re looking for a quick side dish or a light main course, this recipe is a must-try.