Baked Parmesan Zucchini Slices
Baked Parmesan Zucchini Slices are crispy, golden bites of zucchini coated with savory Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs. This healthy, guilt-free snack is baked to perfection, making it a versatile appetizer or side dish that both kids and adults will love. Easy to prepare with simple ingredients, these zucchini slices deliver satisfying crunch and rich flavor without the excess oil of frying.
- Author: Lina
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Diet: Gluten Free
Vegetables
- 2 medium-sized fresh zucchinis
Coating
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch or regular for finer texture)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Binding
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon water (optional, to whisk with the egg)
Other
- Prepare the Zucchini: Wash the zucchinis thoroughly and slice them into even rounds about 1/4-inch thick. This thickness ensures even baking and a perfect crispy texture.
- Set Up Your Breading Station: In one bowl, whisk the egg with a splash of water to loosen it. In another bowl, mix the grated Parmesan, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to create the flavorful coating.
- Coat Each Slice: Dip each zucchini slice into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off, then press both sides firmly into the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture to coat thoroughly.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the coated zucchini slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them out to prevent overlapping and allow air circulation for maximum crispiness.
- Bake Until Golden: Lightly spray the slices with olive oil spray. Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping the slices halfway through to ensure even browning and crisp edges.
Notes
- Remove Excess Moisture: Sprinkle zucchini slices with salt and let sit for 10 minutes, then pat dry to avoid sogginess.
- Use Panko Breadcrumbs for a lighter, crispier texture.
- Olive Oil Spray helps to achieve a golden crust without excess oil.
- Flip slices carefully with a thin spatula to maintain their shape and coating.
- Watch the oven closely during the last 5 minutes to prevent the Parmesan from burning.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days, with a paper towel underneath to absorb moisture.
- Freeze baked slices layered with parchment paper in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month.
- Reheat best in a toaster or conventional oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes for crispness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 5-6 slices
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 320 mg
- Fat: 6 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 40 mg
Keywords: Baked Parmesan Zucchini Slices, healthy snack, crispy zucchini, baked zucchini, Parmesan zucchini, gluten free snack, easy appetizer