If you’re on the hunt for a side dish that’s both delightful and incredibly simple to whip up, look no further than this Garlic Lemon and Parmesan Oven Roasted Zucchini. It’s a burst of bright flavors with the added richness of parmesan that will have you reaching for seconds (or thirds!).
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Burst of Flavor: The combination of garlic, lemon, and parmesan creates a deliciously zesty profile that’s hard to resist.
- Quick and Easy: With just a few ingredients and steps, this dish comes together in no time, perfect for any meal.
- Versatile Pairing: This zucchini dish complements a wide range of main courses, enhancing your meal effortlessly.
- Healthy Indulgence: It’s a guilt-free side dish that’s both nourishing and satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Garlic Lemon and Parmesan Oven Roasted Zucchini is in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating a harmonious balance of flavor, texture, and aroma.
- Zucchini: Choose firm, medium-sized zucchini for the best texture and flavor.
- Olive Oil: It helps to bring out the flavors while protecting the zucchini during roasting.
- Lemon Zest: Adds a bright, fresh zing that complements the richness of parmesan.
- Garlic: For that robust, savory depth that ties everything together.
- Parmesan Cheese: Provides a delightful crunch and savory note to the dish.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing flavors.
Variations
One of the best aspects of this recipe is its adaptability. You can tailor it to meet dietary preferences or to use up whatever you have on hand!
- Add a Spicy Kick: Sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the zucchini before roasting for a touch of heat.
- Herb Twist: Incorporate herbs like thyme or rosemary for an earthy, aromatic flavor boost.
How to Make Garlic Lemon and Parmesan Oven Roasted Zucchini
Step 1: Prepare Your Zucchini
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. Slice your zucchini into four wedges lengthwise, ensuring they are of similar size for even cooking. Lay them out on a foil-lined baking sheet.
Step 2: Create the Flavor Mixture
Combine olive oil, lemon zest, and crushed garlic in a small bowl. Brush this fragrant mixture over your zucchini generously. Make sure each piece gets a bit of that delightful garlic and lemon blend.
Step 3: Add the Cheese and Roast
Sprinkle the shredded parmesan cheese over the zucchini, aiming to cover the tops completely. Roast them in the preheated oven for 11-13 minutes.
Step 4: Broil for Perfection
Move your oven rack to the top position and broil the zucchini for a few minutes until the parmesan turns a lovely golden brown. Serve them warm to enjoy their peak flavor.
Pro Tips for Making Garlic Lemon and Parmesan Oven Roasted Zucchini
- Perfect Even Slices: Uniform zucchini wedges ensure that they cook evenly, avoiding under or overcooked pieces.
- Maximize the Cheese Pop: Pat the zucchini dry before adding cheese to help it stick better and achieve a crispy finish.
- Watchful Broiling: Keep a close eye during broiling to prevent the parmesan from burning, aiming for a golden brown hue.
- Garlic Mince Mastery: Ensure a fine mince on the garlic for even distribution and bold flavor.
How to Serve Garlic Lemon and Parmesan Oven Roasted Zucchini
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley or a pinch of red pepper flakes can elevate the presentation and add an extra layer of flavor to your Garlic Lemon and Parmesan Oven Roasted Zucchini.
Side Dishes
This zucchini pairs wonderfully alongside roasted chicken, grilled fish, or even a hearty pasta. Its bright flavors complement a variety of main dishes without overshadowing them.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more sophisticated presentation, stack the zucchini wedges in a crisscross pattern or serve them in individual ramekins for a personalized touch at your dinner party.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. They may lose a bit of their crispiness but remain delicious for a quick meal.
Freezing
Freezing is not recommended as zucchini tends to become mushy after being defrosted. It’s best enjoyed fresh or as a refrigerated leftover.
Reheating
Reheat your roasted zucchini in an oven preheated to 350 degrees for about 5-7 minutes to revive some of the original texture and warmth without drying them out.
FAQs
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Can I use frozen zucchini for this recipe?
It’s best to use fresh zucchini, as frozen tends to become mushy during roasting. Fresh zucchini ensures you get that perfect texture.
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Is there any substitute for parmesan cheese?
If you’re looking for a non-dairy alternative, nutritional yeast can provide a similar savory note without the cheese.
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How can I make this dish vegan?
For a vegan version, swap out parmesan for nutritional yeast, and ensure that the other ingredients are vegan-friendly too.
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What’s the best way to ensure my zucchini isn’t soggy?
Make sure to pat the zucchini dry with a paper towel before roasting and avoid overcrowding on the baking sheet.
Final Thoughts
Delightful in its simplicity yet elevated by its flavors, this Garlic Lemon and Parmesan Oven Roasted Zucchini is a recipe you’ll find yourself turning to time and time again. Give it a try, and watch how easily it becomes a staple at your dinner table, inviting warmth and a touch of elegance to every meal.
Print
Garlic Lemon and Parmesan Oven Roasted Zucchini Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer, Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Description
This Garlicky Lemon Parmesan Oven Roasted Zucchini recipe offers a flavorful and easy side dish perfect for any meal. The zucchini wedges are coated with a zesty lemon and garlic mixture, topped with golden brown parmesan cheese, and roasted to perfection in the oven. A quick, healthy, and delicious addition to your dinner table.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 1/2 lbs zucchini (about 4 – 5 small/medium zucchini)
For the topping
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- Zest of 1 small lemon (about 1 tsp)
- 2 cloves garlic, crushed or finely minced
- 3/4 cup finely shredded parmesan cheese
Seasonings
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Prepare zucchini: Cut the zucchini into four wedges lengthwise, creating spears.
- Mix oil and zest: In a small bowl, combine olive oil, lemon zest, and crushed garlic. Stir well to create an evenly mixed marinade.
- Apply to zucchini: Arrange zucchini wedges on the prepared baking sheet with space between each piece. Using a brush or spoon, evenly coat the tops with the olive oil mixture, ensuring some garlic and lemon zest cling to each wedge.
- Add cheese and seasonings: Sprinkle the shredded parmesan generously over the tops of the zucchini wedges. Season lightly with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 11-13 minutes until the zucchini is tender. Then, move the oven rack closer to the top and broil for a few minutes until the parmesan becomes golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve warm immediately.
Notes
- For extra crispy parmesan, keep a close eye during broiling to prevent burning.
- You can use grated parmesan for even distribution or pre-shredded for convenience.
- Adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper according to taste.
- This dish pairs well with grilled meats, pasta, or as part of a Mediterranean-inspired meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 wedge (approximately 1/2 zucchini)
- Calories: 60 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 95 mg
- Fat: 4 g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 4 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 5 mg
