Roasted Zucchini Parmesan with Garlic and Herbs – Quick & Delicious

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Introduction

Roasted Zucchini Parmesan is a flavorful and healthy side dish you can make any night of the week. Fresh zucchini pairs beautifully with garlic, herbs, and Parmesan cheese to create a golden, cheesy topping. The garlic brings a rich aroma, while the herbs add freshness and depth to every bite. Parmesan makes the zucchini crisp and savory.

This is a quick, oven-baked recipe that takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish. It is low in carbs yet full of flavor, so it’s perfect if you want something light but satisfying. You don’t need fancy tools or special skills. Just slice the zucchini, season it, and roast it in the oven until golden and tender.

In this post, you’ll discover everything you need to make the best Roasted Zucchini Parmesan with Garlic and Herbs. You’ll find a full list of ingredients, easy step-by-step instructions, and pro tips for getting perfectly crisp zucchini every time. Plus, you’ll get ideas on how to serve it and fun ways to change up the flavors. Whether you’re making dinner for the family or hosting friends, this zucchini recipe will quickly become one of your go-to dishes.

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Why You’ll Love This Roasted Zucchini Parmesan

Crispy, Cheesy, and Herb-Infused

This roasted zucchini parmesan is full of flavor. The edges turn golden and crisp. Garlic and herbs give it freshness, and Parmesan adds a rich, cheesy bite. It’s comfort food with fewer carbs, so you can enjoy it guilt-free.

Quick and Easy

You can make this dish in under 30 minutes. Slice the zucchini, season it, and roast. That’s all. It’s perfect for busy nights when you want something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen.

Healthy and Vegetarian

This is a light yet filling recipe. It’s loaded with vegetables, herbs, and cheese. It’s also vegetarian, so it works well for meatless Mondays or when you want a break from heavy meals.

Perfect for Garden Zucchini

Got fresh zucchini from your garden or farmers’ market? This recipe is one of the best ways to use it. The oven brings out the natural sweetness, and the herbs make it even more delicious.

Minimal Ingredients, Big Flavor

You don’t need a long shopping list. With zucchini, garlic, herbs, olive oil, and Parmesan, you can create a dish that tastes amazing. It’s proof that simple ingredients can make a big impact.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Fresh zucchini, garlic, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, and herbs on a wooden surface – ingredients for roasted zucchini parmesan.
Fresh zucchini, minced garlic, grated Parmesan, olive oil, and herbs – the perfect mix for a quick and delicious roasted zucchini parmesan.

Fresh Zucchini

Choose firm, medium-sized zucchini for the best texture. They roast evenly and hold their shape well in the oven. Fresh zucchini is key to making flavorful roasted zucchini parmesan.

Parmesan Cheese

Use freshly grated Parmesan, not the powdered kind. It melts beautifully and creates a crispy, golden topping. This gives the zucchini its signature cheesy crust.

Garlic

Fresh minced garlic adds bold flavor and a delicious aroma. It blends perfectly with herbs and Parmesan for a rich, savory bite.

Olive Oil

A drizzle of good olive oil helps the zucchini roast to perfection. It adds flavor, prevents sticking, and helps the Parmesan brown beautifully.

Fresh Herbs

Add parsley, basil, or oregano for a burst of freshness. Herbs lift the flavor and give your roasted zucchini parmesan an irresistible Italian touch.

How to Make Roasted Zucchini Parmesan (Step-by-Step)

Slice the Zucchini

Cut the zucchini into even rounds or lengthwise strips. Keep the pieces the same size so they roast evenly.

Toss with Olive Oil, Garlic, and Herbs

Place the zucchini in a large bowl. Add olive oil, minced garlic, and your choice of fresh herbs. Toss well so each piece gets coated with flavor.

Arrange on a Baking Sheet and Add Parmesan

Spread the zucchini in a single layer on a baking sheet. Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan generously over the top for a rich, cheesy crust.

Roast at 400°F (200°C) Until Golden

Place the baking sheet in a preheated oven. Roast for about 15–20 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the Parmesan is golden and crisp.

Optional: Broil for Extra Crisp Edges

If you like a crunchier texture, turn on the broiler for the last 2 minutes. Watch closely to avoid burning.

Tips for Perfect Roasted Zucchini Parmesan

Pat Zucchini Dry

Dry the zucchini well with a kitchen towel before baking. This helps prevent sogginess and makes the Parmesan crust crispier.

Use Parchment Paper

Line your baking sheet with parchment paper. It keeps the zucchini from sticking and makes cleanup fast and easy.

Add Breadcrumbs for Crunch

Mix breadcrumbs with Parmesan for extra texture. This adds a golden, crunchy layer to your roasted zucchini parmesan.

Combine Parmesan with Mozzarella

Blend Parmesan with mozzarella for more melt and richer flavor. The mix creates a cheesy layer that’s both crisp and gooey.

Adjust Herbs to Your Taste

Use herbs you love or what’s in season. Basil, oregano, and parsley all work beautifully in this zucchini recipe.

Serving Suggestions & Variations

Plate of roasted zucchini rounds topped with Parmesan, garlic, and fresh herbs.
Warm, golden zucchini slices roasted with Parmesan, garlic, and herbs, ready to enjoy as a side dish.

Serve as a Side Dish

Pair roasted zucchini parmesan with pasta, grilled meats, or a fresh salad. It works with almost any main course and adds color to your plate.

Turn into a Main Dish

Add marinara sauce and mozzarella to make a zucchini parm bake. This version is hearty and full of cheesy goodness.

Try with Yellow Squash

Mix yellow squash with zucchini for more color and a sweeter flavor. It makes the dish look vibrant and taste even better.

Drizzle with Balsamic Glaze

Add a touch of balsamic glaze before serving. It gives the zucchini a gourmet twist and a sweet tang.

Make It Keto-Friendly

Skip the breadcrumbs or replace them with almond flour. You’ll still get a crispy topping while keeping the recipe low in carbs.

Roasted Zucchini Parmesan with Garlic and Herbs

Golden roasted zucchini rounds with melted Parmesan, garlic, and fresh parsley on top.

Roasted Zucchini Parmesan with Garlic and Herbs

Roasted Zucchini Parmesan with Garlic and Herbs is a quick, flavorful side dish made with fresh zucchini slices, olive oil, garlic, Parmesan, and herbs. Baked until golden and tender, it’s light, cheesy, and ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for weeknights or summer meals.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: dinner, lunch
Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Calories: 130

Ingredients
  

  • 4 medium zucchinis sliced into ½-inch rounds
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or basil/oregano, chopped
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Method
 

  1. Preheat Oven – Set oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Prep Zucchini – Pat slices dry with paper towels.
  3. Season – Toss zucchini with olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, and half the herbs.
  4. Arrange – Place in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  5. Add Cheese – Sprinkle Parmesan evenly over slices.
  6. Roast – Bake for 15–20 minutes until golden and tender.
  7. Optional Crisp – Broil for 1–2 minutes for extra crunch.
  8. Serve – Garnish with remaining herbs and serve warm.

FAQs

1. How do you keep roasted zucchini parmesan from getting soggy?

Pat the zucchini dry before seasoning. Also, avoid overcrowding the baking sheet so moisture can evaporate.

2. Can I make roasted zucchini parmesan ahead of time?

Yes. You can prepare the zucchini with garlic, herbs, and Parmesan in advance, then roast just before serving for the best texture.

3. What herbs work best with roasted zucchini parmesan?

Fresh basil, parsley, and oregano are classic choices. You can also try thyme or rosemary for a different flavor.

4. Can I use pre-shredded Parmesan cheese?

You can, but freshly grated Parmesan melts better and gives a crispier topping.

5. How long should I roast zucchini at 400°F (200°C)?

It usually takes 15–20 minutes. For extra crisp edges, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end.

Conclusion

Roasted Zucchini Parmesan with Garlic and Herbs is quick, cheesy, and full of fresh flavor. It’s a healthy veggie dish you can make in under 30 minutes. This recipe works for busy weeknights, potlucks, or relaxed summer dinners.

You only need a few simple ingredients to create big flavor. Garlic, herbs, and Parmesan turn fresh zucchini into a side dish everyone will love. Once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again.

I’d love to hear how you enjoyed this roasted zucchini parmesan. Leave a comment, rate the recipe, or share your favorite herb combinations. Your tips and ideas can inspire others to try new flavors.

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