Description
This Roasted Zucchini Recipe is a quick, easy, and healthy side dish featuring crispy, tender zucchini roasted to perfection with garlic, olive oil, and optional Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs. Ideal for busy weeknights, it pairs well with a variety of main dishes and is customizable to your taste preferences.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis, fresh and firm
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional Toppings
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh herbs such as thyme, oregano, or parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Start by heating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature helps the zucchini develop a beautiful golden crust while staying tender inside.
- Prepare the Zucchini: Wash the zucchini and slice it into evenly sized rounds or sticks, about 1/4 inch thick. Even slices ensure everything cooks uniformly.
- Season the Zucchini: In a large bowl, toss the zucchini slices with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until every piece is nicely coated.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Spread the zucchini in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet to prevent overcrowding, which guarantees crispiness.
- Roast Until Golden: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 15 to 20 minutes. Halfway through, flip the pieces to roast evenly on both sides.
- Add Toppings and Serve: If you’re using Parmesan or herbs, add them during the last 5 minutes of roasting, then serve immediately while warm and fragrant.
Notes
- Slice zucchini pieces uniformly to ensure even cooking and to avoid mushy pieces.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; spacing helps achieve crispiness rather than steaming the zucchini.
- Roast at high heat (425°F) to get a crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender.
- Add Parmesan cheese near the end of cooking to prevent burning.
- Use fresh, firm zucchinis for best texture and flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 5mg