This Garlic Parmesan Roasted Zucchini is a delightful side dish that’s super easy to make! With just a few ingredients, you get tender, juicy zucchini sprinkled with tasty garlic and cheesy goodness.
If you’re like me, you might end up eating more zucchini than intended! It’s healthy, delicious, and perfect for a quick dinner. I love serving it alongside grilled chicken or pasta—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Choose firm and fresh zucchinis without blemishes for the best texture. If zucchini isn’t available, try using eggplant or yellow squash instead.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is my favorite for its rich flavor. If you need a substitute, avocado oil works well and has a similar smoke point.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is essential for that bold flavor. In a pinch, garlic powder can be used (1 teaspoon per clove), but fresh is always better!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds depth to the dish. If you can’t find it, Pecorino Romano is a tasty alternative, or nutritional yeast works for a dairy-free option.
Italian Seasoning: If you don’t have Italian seasoning, a blend of dried basil, oregano, and thyme will do the trick. I like to add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra warmth!
How Do You Cut Zucchini for Roasting?
Cutting zucchini properly helps flavor and presentation. Start by washing and trimming the ends. Then slice each zucchini in half lengthwise. The key is to make diagonal cuts on the flesh, but don’t pierce the skin. This lets the seasoning soak in better!
- Ensure your knife is sharp for safe and clean cuts.
- Place the zucchini flat on the cutting board to make handling easier.
Taking your time here will improve both the flavor and the look of your roasted zucchini. Enjoy experimenting with these techniques!
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Roasted Zucchini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Roasted Zucchini:
- 4 medium zucchinis
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme)
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 20-25 minutes to roast in the oven. So, you can have a delicious side dish ready in around 35-40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is perfect for roasting the zucchinis to get them tender and golden.
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
Wash the zucchinis under cool water and cut off the ends. Carefully slice each zucchini lengthwise down the middle so you have two halves. This will help them roast evenly.
3. Create the Seasoning Cuts:
Using a sharp knife, make diagonal cuts in the flesh of each zucchini half. Be gentle and don’t cut all the way through the skin. These cuts will help the yummy seasoning soak in and also look nice!
4. Mix the Flavoring:
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, sea salt, and black pepper. Stir it all together until well blended.
5. Brush the Zucchini:
Place the zucchini halves cut-side up in a baking dish. Use a brush or a spoon to apply the garlic Parmesan mixture generously onto each zucchini. Make sure to get some of it into those diagonal cuts for even more flavor!
6. Roast the Zucchini:
Put the baking dish in the oven and roast the zucchinis for about 20-25 minutes. They should be tender and the tops should look golden brown when they are ready.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once the zucchinis are done roasting, carefully take them out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley on top for a colorful finish. Enjoy your tasty Garlic Parmesan Roasted Zucchini as a delightful side dish!
Can I Use Different Cheeses for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While Parmesan adds a great flavor, you can substitute with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste, or even use mozzarella for a creamier texture. Just be aware that different cheeses may alter the final flavor profile a bit!
What If I Don’t Have Olive Oil?
No problem! You can substitute olive oil with avocado oil or melted butter. Both options will still provide excellent flavor and help the zucchini roast nicely.
Can I Prepare the Zucchini Ahead of Time?
Sure! You can slice and prep the zucchinis along with the garlic Parmesan mixture a few hours in advance. Just store them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to roast them to keep everything fresh.
How to Store Leftover Roasted Zucchini?
Store any leftover zucchini in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just pop them in the oven for a few minutes or microwave on medium heat for 1-2 minutes until warmed through.
