Looking for a light, crispy, and flavorful snack that’s healthy too? These Crispy Parmesan Zucchini Rounds are the answer! Made with fresh zucchini slices, seasoned herbs, and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan, this recipe delivers the perfect crunch without deep-frying. Whether served as a party appetizer, a nutritious side dish, or a guilt-free snack, these golden rounds will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Zucchini is an incredibly versatile vegetable, and when paired with Parmesan and herbs, it turns into something truly irresistible. This oven-baked recipe is easy to prepare, low in carbs, and absolutely packed with flavor. Let’s get started!
Cooking Time
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Cook Time: 15 minutes
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Total Time: 25 minutes
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Servings: 2–3
Ingredients
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2 medium zucchinis, sliced into ¼-inch (0.6 cm) rounds
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50 g (about ½ cup) grated Parmesan cheese
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½ tsp garlic powder
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½ tsp dried Italian herbs
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Olive oil spray
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
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Preheat the oven to 200°C (390°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
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Prepare the zucchini: Use a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to pat the zucchini rounds dry. Removing excess moisture is key for a crispy result.
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Mix the seasoning: In a small bowl, combine the grated Parmesan, garlic powder, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper.
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Arrange the zucchini: Lay the zucchini slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray them with olive oil.
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Top with Parmesan mixture: Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over the zucchini slices, ensuring each piece gets a bit of cheese and herb coating.
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Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown and the zucchini edges are crisp.
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Serve warm: Let cool slightly and serve immediately as a snack or side dish.
Nutritional Information (Per serving)
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Calories: 130
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Protein: 7 g
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Carbs: 4 g
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Fat: 9 g
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Fiber: 1.5 g
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Sugar: 2 g
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Sodium: 210 mg
Low in calories and carbs, this dish is perfect for keto, vegetarian, and gluten-free diets (if gluten-free Parmesan is used).
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
Zucchini has been a staple ingredient in Mediterranean cooking for centuries. With the rise of low-carb and keto diets, recipes like baked zucchini chips or rounds have grown in popularity as healthier alternatives to potato-based snacks. This version, with its crispy Parmesan topping and herb seasoning, draws inspiration from Italian cuisine, offering maximum flavor with minimal effort.
Reasons Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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✅ Crunchy & Satisfying: No need to deep-fry—just bake for crispy perfection.
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✅ Healthy & Low-Carb: Great for keto, low-calorie, and gluten-free lifestyles.
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✅ Fast & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes.
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✅ Kid-Friendly: A fun way to get children to enjoy vegetables.
Health Benefits
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Zucchini: Rich in fiber, vitamin A, and antioxidants while being low in calories.
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Parmesan Cheese: A good source of calcium and protein.
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Garlic & Herbs: Provide antibacterial and anti-inflammatory benefits.
This recipe is not only delicious but also contributes to a balanced, nutrient-dense meal.
Serving Suggestions
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Snack: Serve warm with marinara or ranch dipping sauce.
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Side Dish: Pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or burgers.
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Party Appetizer: Arrange on a platter with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and lemon wedges.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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❌ Skipping the drying step: Wet zucchini won’t crisp up.
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❌ Overcrowding the tray: Always bake in a single layer for even browning.
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❌ Too much oil spray: Use a light mist—too much oil can make them soggy.
Pairing Recommendations
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Main Dish: Grilled salmon, baked chicken, or lasagna.
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Drinks: Lemon-infused sparkling water or a crisp white wine.
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Dips: Garlic aioli, Greek yogurt dip, or spicy Sriracha mayo.
Cooking Tips
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Add a pinch of chili flakes for a spicy twist.
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Use parchment or a silicone mat to prevent sticking.
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Flip the zucchini halfway through for extra crispness.
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Want a golden crunch? Broil for the last 2 minutes.
Similar Recipes to Try
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Baked Eggplant Chips
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Zucchini Fritters
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Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower Bites
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Garlic Roasted Green Beans
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Crispy Sweet Potato Rounds
Variations to Try
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Cheese Swap: Try Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano.
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Herb Blend: Use fresh thyme, oregano, or basil.
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Zucchini Chips: Slice thinner and bake longer for chip-style texture.
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Vegan Option: Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
Ingredient Spotlight: Zucchini
Zucchini is a summer squash known for its mild flavor and high water content. It’s incredibly versatile—great for baking, sautéing, spiralizing, or stuffing. In this recipe, its firm texture makes it the perfect base for a crispy baked snack.
Conclusion Paragraph
These Crispy Parmesan Zucchini Rounds are proof that simple ingredients can deliver big flavor. Whether you’re making a healthy snack, a party platter, or a kid-approved veggie side, this recipe delivers every time. Quick, tasty, and endlessly customizable—it’s the perfect way to use up fresh zucchini and add some crunch to your meal.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this in the air fryer?
Yes! Cook at 200°C (390°F) for about 10–12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway.
2. Can I store leftovers?
Yes, but they’re best fresh. Store in the fridge for up to 2 days and reheat in the oven.
3. Can I use frozen zucchini?
It’s not recommended. Frozen zucchini tends to be watery and will not crisp up well.
4. Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes! It’s low in carbs and high in flavor.
5. Can I use zucchini from my garden?
Absolutely. Just make sure to dry them well before baking.
6. What’s the best dip for these rounds?
Marinara sauce, ranch, or a simple garlic yogurt dip work wonderfully.
7. Can I prepare these ahead of time?
You can prep and season them in advance, but bake just before serving.
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8. Can I make them dairy-free?
Try a dairy-free Parmesan alternative or use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
9. Are these kid-friendly?
Yes! Even picky eaters love the cheesy crispness.
10. Can I add breadcrumbs for extra crunch?
Sure! Mix in 2–3 tablespoons of panko with the Parmesan for added texture.