This parmesan zucchini is crusted in crispy breadcrumbs and cheese, then baked to golden brown perfection. An easy side dish or appetizer option!
Love fried zucchini sticks? This baked version has less calories but still has tons of flavor.
When I see fried zucchini on a restaurant menu, I absolutely cannot resist. Give me a side of ranch or marinara and I’m in appetizer heaven. This parmesan zucchini is made in the oven instead of the fryer, but still has that same crispy, savory flavor of the deep fried favorite.
How to make parmesan zucchini
For this recipe, you’ll need zucchini, breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, olive oil and Italian seasoning. You can find Italian seasoning in the herbs and spices aisle, it’s typically a blend of garlic powder, oregano, basil and salt. Alternatively, you can use Italian seasoned breadcrumbs.
The zucchini is cut into spears and coated in olive oil, parmesan and the breadcrumbs. Be sure to also add some salt and pepper!
These parmesan zucchini sticks go onto a sheet pan and then into a hot oven for a quick bake. You do NOT want to overbake your zucchini or it will get mushy and be hard to pick up.
What are the benefits of eating zucchini?
Zucchini is full of nutrients like antioxidants, Vitamin C, potassium and Vitamin B. It’s low in calories and carbs and is even thought to aid in digestion. I also love that it’s readily available year round and is inexpensive.
After your zucchini comes out of the oven, serve it immediately, either as a side dish or an appetizer. I like to serve a side of marinara for dipping, but that’s optional.
My kids devour this parmesan zucchini, it’s a really great way to get the family to eat their veggies! No one can resist that crispy crust.
More great ways to eat your veggies
- Bacon Roasted Brussels Sprouts
- Garlic Butter Mushrooms
- Parmesan Roasted Broccoli
- Slow Cooker Glazed Carrots
- Green Bean Bundles
Parmesan Zucchini
Ingredients
- 1 lb zucchini quartered and cut into sticks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- salt and pepper to taste
- cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425 degrees. Coat a sheet pan with cooking spray.
- Place the zucchini in a bowl. Add the olive oil and toss to coat.
- Add the breadcrumbs, salt, pepper and parmesan cheese and toss until zucchini is coated.
- Arrange the zucchini spears in a single layer on the sheet pan.
- Bake for 10-15 minutes or until browned and zucchini is tender. Serve immediately with marinara sauce if desired.
Notes
- Italian seasoned breadcrumbs may be substituted instead of using the combination of plan breadcrumbs with dried Italian seasoning.
Sharon says
I love this ❤️ the only change I made was to put half the seasoned breadcrumbs and grated cheese in a sifter which yield lower carbs.
Deb says
One of my favorite recipes for all of the zucchini my garden produces!
Debra Hawkins says
When I was younger a restaurant near us made something like this! It was my favorite and I have missed it ever since the restaurant closed. Making this for sure!
Alison Rost says
This is my kind of side dish or appetizer, it’s healthy and easy to make. I love that you baked it instead of frying it, I’m sure it tastes amazing with the parmesan and the Italian seasoning.
Carol Cassara says
I sure love the combination of the parmesan and the zucchini. It’s also healthier than using potatoes. I appreciate that is baked and not fried!
chubskulit rose says
You made zucchini so much appealing. My kids aren’t very fond of zucchini but I think they will like this.
Bethel Esmillarin says
Oh, everything is making this post so yummy. From the food presentation to photography! I dont doubt the food itself is yummy!!
Jenn @ EngineerMommy says
This is one of my fave dishes ever and I haven’t made it in a long time. I totally need to try your recipe this weekend.
tasheena@simplytasheena.com says
This looks so divine! I could imagine these two ingredients together make the perfect treat. Looking forward to giving this a try.
Our Family World says
This is a great appetizer recipe. It would also be a healthy snacking option for our movie or game nights with the kids! I just love the golden, delicious crust on them.
Joanna @ Everyday Made Fresh says
I make zucchini like this sometimes. It’s been a while so thanks for the reminder. My family loves it!
Heather says
This looks so good and so easy to make at home. I love zucchini. My husband is not much a fan, but maybe its because he hasn’t had it prepared the right way.
Mimi green says
I was all set to take a hard pass on this one based on the title. Then I saw the picture and now I’m sold.
Jeanette says
Now that is a snack that I could easily eat all the time! I am trying to eat healthier but my downfall is fries. Something like this would help with that craving.
Karen Morse says
Sounds like a lovely side dish or snack especially when you want to snack on something that’s healthier than usual. The parmesan adds a lovely flavor to the zucchini! I would love to make this at home!
Amber Myers says
I need to try these soon. They’d make a perfect side dish. I’ m a huge fan of parmesan. I’m sure most of the members of my family would eat them.
candy says
We always have tons of zucchini from the garden so I am always searching for new ways to use it up. This sounds perfect for a side dish or appetizer like you said.
robin rue says
No way! this is such a clever idea. I am super excited about this recipe! YUM.
valmg @ Mom Knows It All says
I love how simple this is to make! My friend loves zucchini, I am certain she would love to try this recipe.