If you’re looking for a delicious and healthy snack or side dish, these Crispy Baked Zucchini slices are perfect. They offer a satisfying crunch and are packed with flavor, thanks to a seasoned breadcrumb coating and a hint of Parmesan cheese. Ideal for both adults and kids, this recipe transforms simple zucchini into a delightful treat that’s sure to be a hit at any table. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and requires minimal ingredients, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
For the Zucchini:
- 3 zucchini: Choose firm, fresh zucchini for the best texture. They should be free from blemishes and have a vibrant green color.
- 1 cup breadcrumbs: Regular or whole wheat breadcrumbs work well. For an extra crunch, use panko breadcrumbs.
- 50 g Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds a rich, nutty flavor. Pre-grated cheese can also be used, but freshly grated will melt better and provide more flavor.
- Fresh parsley: Adds a pop of color and freshness. You can substitute with dried parsley if fresh isn’t available.
- 1 clove garlic: Minced garlic provides a robust flavor. If you prefer a milder garlic taste, you can reduce the amount or use garlic powder.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness and a hint of color. Sweet or smoked paprika can be used based on your preference.
- 1 teaspoon Provencal herbs: A blend of herbs like thyme, rosemary, and basil that complements the zucchini. Italian seasoning can be used as a substitute.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground black pepper enhances the flavor profile. Adjust the quantity to taste.
- 1 egg: Acts as a binder for the breadcrumbs. For a vegan option, you can use a flax egg or a mixture of water and cornstarch.
- Salt: To taste, enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
- Olive oil: Used for drizzling to help the zucchini crisp up during baking. You can use other oils like avocado oil if preferred.
Instructions
1. Prepare the Zucchini
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). This high temperature ensures the zucchini slices become crispy and golden brown.
- Slice Zucchini:
- Wash and trim the zucchini ends. Slice them into even rounds or sticks, about 1/4-inch thick. Uniform slices ensure even cooking and consistent crispiness.
2. Prepare the Coating
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a shallow bowl or plate, combine 1 cup of breadcrumbs, 50 g of grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, minced garlic, paprika, Provencal herbs, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Mix thoroughly to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed.
- Prepare Egg Wash:
- In a separate bowl, beat 1 egg until well mixed. This will help the breadcrumbs adhere to the zucchini slices.
3. Coat the Zucchini
- Dunk in Egg Wash:
- Dip each zucchini slice into the beaten egg, allowing any excess to drip off. The egg wash acts as a glue for the breadcrumb mixture.
- Coat with Breadcrumbs:
- Dredge the egg-coated zucchini in the breadcrumb mixture. Press the crumbs onto the zucchini to ensure a thick, even coating.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet:
- Place the coated zucchini slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even baking and maximum crispiness. Drizzle a small amount of olive oil over the top of the slices to help them crisp up in the oven.
4. Bake the Zucchini
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the zucchini is golden brown and crispy. Flip the slices halfway through to ensure even cooking on both sides.
- Check Doneness:
- The zucchini should be tender inside and crispy on the outside. For extra crispiness, you can broil them for an additional 1-2 minutes at the end of baking. Keep a close eye on them to avoid burning.
Key Ingredients:
- Zucchini: Fresh zucchini works best for this recipe. Choose medium-sized zucchinis that are firm and free from soft spots.
- Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs are ideal for a crispy texture, but you can also use regular breadcrumbs. For added flavor, use seasoned breadcrumbs or mix your breadcrumbs with spices.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds a savory, nutty flavor to the coating. It also helps with browning and crispiness in the oven.
- Eggs: The egg wash helps the breadcrumbs stick to the zucchini, creating that perfect crispy coating.
- Herbs and Spices: A mix of Italian seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, and salt enhances the flavor of the zucchini sticks.
- Olive Oil (optional): A light drizzle of olive oil before baking can help with browning and make the sticks even crispier.
- The zucchini should be tender inside and crispy on the outside. For extra crispiness, you can broil them for an additional 1-2 minutes at the end of baking. Keep a close eye on them to avoid burning.
5. Serve
- Cool and Garnish:
- Remove the zucchini from the oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with additional fresh parsley for added color and flavor.
- Enjoy:
- Serve warm as a side dish, appetizer, or healthy snack. These crispy zucchini slices pair well with marinara sauce, yogurt dip, or a tangy ranch dressing.
- Dipping Sauces: Serve the crispy zucchini sticks with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or a spicy sriracha mayo for extra flavor.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh parsley, basil, or a bit more Parmesan before serving for an added touch of freshness and flavor.
- As a side dish: These zucchini sticks pair well with grilled meats, pasta dishes, or alongside a light salad for a well-rounded meal.
Tips and Variations
- Breadcrumb Variations: For an extra crunchy texture, use panko breadcrumbs. You can also season the breadcrumbs with other spices or herbs to match your taste preferences.
- Cheese Options: Substitute Parmesan with other hard cheeses like Pecorino or Asiago for a different flavor profile. For a dairy-free version, omit the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own seasoning blend. Dill, oregano, or basil can be excellent additions.
-
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a little heat.
- Vegan Option: Replace the egg wash with a plant-based milk and cornstarch mixture, and use nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan for a vegan-friendly version.Zucchini Shapes: Try cutting the zucchini into different shapes such as wedges or planks for a fun twist.
- Pat the zucchini dry: Zucchini has a high water content, so pat them dry with a paper towel after slicing to prevent the coating from becoming soggy.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet: Leave space between the sticks so that air can circulate, ensuring even crisping.
- Use panko breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs create a lighter and crispier texture compared to regular breadcrumbs.
Storage
- Leftovers: Store any leftover zucchini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain crispiness, reheat them in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 5-10 minutes. Avoid reheating in the microwave as it can make them soggy.
Conclusion
These Crispy Baked Zucchini slices are a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy, flavorful treat that’s both easy to make and versatile. The combination of crispy coating, savory Parmesan cheese, and aromatic herbs makes these zucchini slices a standout addition to any meal. Whether served as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, they are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Give this recipe a try and see how delicious and satisfying simple ingredients can be. Share the recipe with friends and family, and subscribe to our blog for more tasty recipes and cooking tips. Enjoy your crispy, golden zucchini!
PrintCrispy Baked Zucchini Sticks Recipe
- Total Time: 35mins
Description
If you’re looking for a delicious and healthy snack or side dish, these Crispy Baked Zucchini slices are perfect. They offer a satisfying crunch and are packed with flavor, thanks to a seasoned breadcrumb coating and a hint of Parmesan cheese. Ideal for both adults and kids, this recipe transforms simple zucchini into a delightful treat that’s sure to be a hit at any table. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and requires minimal ingredients, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
- 3 zucchini: Choose firm, fresh zucchini for the best texture. They should be free from blemishes and have a vibrant green color.
- 1 cup breadcrumbs: Regular or whole wheat breadcrumbs work well. For an extra crunch, use panko breadcrumbs.
- 50 g Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds a rich, nutty flavor. Pre-grated cheese can also be used, but freshly grated will melt better and provide more flavor.
- Fresh parsley: Adds a pop of color and freshness. You can substitute with dried parsley if fresh isn’t available.
- 1 clove garlic: Minced garlic provides a robust flavor. If you prefer a milder garlic taste, you can reduce the amount or use garlic powder.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness and a hint of color. Sweet or smoked paprika can be used based on your preference.
- 1 teaspoon Provencal herbs: A blend of herbs like thyme, rosemary, and basil that complements the zucchini. Italian seasoning can be used as a substitute.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground black pepper enhances the flavor profile. Adjust the quantity to taste.
- 1 egg: Acts as a binder for the breadcrumbs. For a vegan option, you can use a flax egg or a mixture of water and cornstarch.
- Salt: To taste, enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
- Olive oil: Used for drizzling to help the zucchini crisp up during baking. You can use other oils like avocado oil if preferred.
Instructions
Prepare the Zucchini
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). This high temperature ensures the zucchini slices become crispy and golden brown.
- Slice Zucchini:
- Wash and trim the zucchini ends. Slice them into even rounds or sticks, about 1/4-inch thick. Uniform slices ensure even cooking and consistent crispiness.
2. Prepare the Coating
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a shallow bowl or plate, combine 1 cup of breadcrumbs, 50 g of grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, minced garlic, paprika, Provencal herbs, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Mix thoroughly to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed.
- Prepare Egg Wash:
- In a separate bowl, beat 1 egg until well mixed. This will help the breadcrumbs adhere to the zucchini slices.
3. Coat the Zucchini
- Dunk in Egg Wash:
- Dip each zucchini slice into the beaten egg, allowing any excess to drip off. The egg wash acts as a glue for the breadcrumb mixture.
- Coat with Breadcrumbs:
- Dredge the egg-coated zucchini in the breadcrumb mixture. Press the crumbs onto the zucchini to ensure a thick, even coating.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet:
- Place the coated zucchini slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even baking and maximum crispiness. Drizzle a small amount of olive oil over the top of the slices to help them crisp up in the oven.
4. Bake the Zucchini
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the zucchini is golden brown and crispy. Flip the slices halfway through to ensure even cooking on both sides.
- Check Doneness:
- The zucchini should be tender inside and crispy on the outside. For extra crispiness, you can broil them for an additional 1-2 minutes at the end of baking. Keep a close eye on them to avoid burning.
- Prep Time: 10mins
- Cook Time: 25mins