This Garlic Parmesan Roasted Zucchini is a tasty treat! Tender zucchini is tossed with garlic and Parmesan cheese, then roasted to a golden perfection. It’s simple and so good!
I love how this dish is an easy way to add veggies to any meal. Plus, the smell of garlic filling the kitchen? Instant happiness! 🧄✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Use medium zucchini for this recipe. If you’re in a pinch, yellow squash works too! Both have a similar texture, but zucchini gives a milder flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a lovely salty taste. For a dairy-free option, try using nutritional yeast, which provides a cheesy flavor without the cheese. Alternatively, Pecorino Romano can replace Parmesan for a sharper taste.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is best for flavor. If you’re out of fresh garlic, pre-minced garlic or garlic powder can work, but make sure to adjust the quantity as a little goes a long way!
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil provides a rich taste. If you’re looking for a different flavor profile, avocado oil or melted butter can be great substitutes.
Italian Seasoning: This blend of herbs enhances the dish. You can make your own with dried basil, oregano, and thyme if you don’t have a pre-mixed option. Feel free to add fresh herbs too, like rosemary or thyme!
How Do You Get the Best Flavor Infusion in Zucchini?
To really boost the flavor, cutting shallow slits in the zucchini is key. This allows the garlic-oil mixture to penetrate deeply, giving you flavorful bites. Here’s how to do it:
- Wash and halve the zucchini lengthwise.
- Take a knife and gently slice shallow cuts across the flesh, avoiding cutting all the way through.
- Make sure to apply the garlic-oil mixture generously in between these cuts for maximum flavor.
These simple steps will ensure every bite of the zucchini is bursting with that delicious garlic and Parmesan combination!
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Roasted Zucchini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Roasted Zucchini:
- 4 medium zucchini
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and around 25-30 minutes for roasting. So, in total, you’ll need about 40 minutes from start to finish—perfect for a quick and delicious side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures it’s hot enough to give your zucchini that nice roasted flavor.
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
Wash the zucchini well and slice each one in half lengthwise. Use a knife to make several shallow cuts across the flesh of each half, creating a fan-like effect. Just make sure not to cut all the way through!
3. Mix the Olive Oil Mixture:
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Give it a good mix so all the flavors blend together nicely.
4. Drizzle the Mixture Over Zucchini:
Now, drizzle your tasty olive oil mixture over the zucchini halves. Try to get the garlic and seasoning into those cuts you made earlier—this will add so much flavor!
5. Add the Parmesan:
Generously sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top of each zucchini half. Press it lightly into the cuts to help it stick as it roasts.
6. Arrange for Roasting:
Place the zucchini cut-side up in a baking dish. Pour any extra olive oil mixture around the zucchini to help keep them moist while roasting.
7. Roast in the Oven:
Pop the baking dish into your preheated oven and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the cheese turns golden and crispy. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
8. Final Touches:
Once done, take the zucchini out of the oven and let them cool for just a bit. Before serving, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for that fresh and colorful finish.
Enjoy your flavorful Garlic Parmesan Roasted Zucchini! It’s a delightful side that pairs well with many dishes!
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese Instead of Parmesan?
Absolutely! You can substitute Parmesan with other cheeses like Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor or mozzarella for a gooey texture. Just keep in mind that the taste will change slightly, but it will still be delicious!
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
To make this dish vegan, simply omit the cheese and replace the Parmesan with a vegan cheese alternative. You can also enhance the flavor by adding nutritional yeast or extra herbs to compensate for the cheesy taste.
What Should I Do If I Have Leftover Zucchini?
If you have leftover zucchini, you can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the oven or toaster oven for the best texture; just keep an eye on it to avoid burning the cheese if you have any left on top!
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Recipe?
Yes, you can definitely add other vegetables! Bell peppers, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes roast nicely alongside zucchini. Just remember to adjust the roasting time slightly based on the type and size of the vegetables you add.
