Description
This Garlic Lemon and Parmesan Oven Roasted Zucchini recipe is a simple and flavorful side dish featuring tender zucchini wedges roasted to perfection with a zesty lemon, aromatic garlic, and a savory Parmesan cheese topping. It’s easy to prepare, making it an ideal accompaniment for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 1 1/2 lbs zucchini (about 4 – 5 small/medium zucchini)
Seasonings and Oils
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- Zest of 1 small lemon (1 tsp)
- 2 cloves garlic, crushed or finely minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Cheese
- 3/4 cup finely shredded Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare baking sheet: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Line a rimmed cookie sheet with aluminum foil to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Cut zucchini: Slice each zucchini lengthwise into four even wedges. This ensures they will roast uniformly.
- Prepare olive oil mixture: In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of olive oil, lemon zest, and minced garlic. Stir well to blend all the flavors.
- Arrange zucchini: Place the zucchini wedges evenly spaced on the lined baking sheet to allow proper heat circulation during roasting.
- Brush with olive oil mixture: Generously coat the tops of the zucchini wedges with the olive oil mixture, making sure the garlic and lemon zest are evenly distributed.
- Add Parmesan cheese: Sprinkle the shredded Parmesan cheese over the coated zucchini wedges, pressing slightly so the cheese sticks. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Bake then broil: Bake the zucchini in the preheated oven for 11-13 minutes until tender. Then move the oven rack to the top position and broil for 2-3 minutes until the Parmesan topping turns golden brown. Watch closely to avoid burning.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve warm. Optionally garnish with additional lemon zest or fresh herbs for extra flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Use fresh Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and melting results.
- Adjust the broiling time depending on your oven to prevent burning the cheese.
- Try garnishing with chopped fresh parsley or basil for added color and taste.
- For a spicier kick, sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes before baking.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven to maintain crispiness.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
