These Roasted Parmesan Garlic Zucchini Spears are a simple and flavorful side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of lemon, garlic, and Parmesan cheese adds a bright and savory flavor to the tender zucchini, while roasting brings out its natural sweetness. This recipe is easy to make and a great way to add a healthy and delicious vegetable to your meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and a short cooking time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful and Healthy: The combination of lemon, garlic, and Parmesan cheese adds a delicious and healthy flavor boost to zucchini.
- Versatile Side Dish: These zucchini spears pair well with a variety of main courses, from chicken and fish to pasta and vegetarian dishes.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make these Roasted Parmesan Garlic Zucchini Spears:
- Zucchini: Medium-sized, about 1 1/2 pounds, the star of the dish.
- Olive oil: Used to coat the zucchini and enhance its flavor.
- Lemon juice: Adds a bright and tangy flavor.
- Lemon peel: Grated, adds a concentrated lemon flavor.
- Garlic clove: Minced, adds a savory kick.
- Oregano: Adds a classic Italian herb flavor.
- Parmesan cheese: Grated and shredded, adds a salty and cheesy flavor.
- Salt and pepper: To taste, enhances the overall flavor.
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.
How to Make Roasted Parmesan Garlic Zucchini Spears
Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Cut the zucchini lengthwise into quarters, then cut each quarter in half widthwise. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray it with cooking spray. Lay the zucchini spears on the baking sheet and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Make the Lemon Garlic Mixture
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon peel, minced garlic, and oregano.
Step 3: Drizzle and Sprinkle
Drizzle the lemon garlic mixture over the zucchini spears. Sprinkle the grated and shredded Parmesan cheese evenly over the zucchini.
Step 4: Roast
Bake for 15 minutes, or until the zucchini is lightly golden brown and tender. For a crispier edge, broil for the last 3 minutes.
Step 5: Serve
Remove the zucchini spears from the oven and serve immediately.
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh lemon juice, lemon peel, and garlic will provide the best flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet: Overcrowding can cause the zucchini to steam instead of roast.
- Adjust cooking time: Cooking time may vary depending on the size and thickness of your zucchini.
- Add other herbs: Feel free to add other herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil.
How to Serve
- Side Dish: Serve these roasted zucchini spears as a side dish with chicken, fish, steak, or pork.
- Appetizer: Serve them as a tasty appetizer at your next gathering.
- Vegetarian Main: Enjoy them as a light and flavorful vegetarian main course.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover roasted zucchini spears in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven before serving.
Freezing
While you can freeze roasted zucchini, they may become mushy upon thawing. For best results, consume leftovers within a few days.
FAQs
Can I use yellow squash instead of zucchini?
Yes, you can use yellow squash. They will cook similarly to zucchini.
Can I add other vegetables to the roasting pan?
Yes, you can add other vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or cherry tomatoes.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use dried herbs. Use about half the amount of dried herbs as you would fresh.
Can I add breadcrumbs?
Yes, you can sprinkle breadcrumbs over the zucchini before baking for a crispy topping.
PrintRoasted Parmesan Garlic Zucchini Spears Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dishes
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Description
These Roasted Parmesan Garlic Zucchini Spears are a simple and flavorful side dish, perfect for adding a healthy touch to any meal. Zucchini spears are roasted with a fragrant blend of lemon, garlic, and oregano, then topped with Parmesan cheese for a delicious and easy vegetable dish.
Ingredients
- 3 zucchini, medium-sized, about 1 1/2 pounds
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons lemon peel, grated
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- 2 Tablespoons Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 Tablespoon Parmesan cheese, shredded
- Salt and pepper
Instructions
- Prepare Zucchini: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cut zucchini lengthwise into quarters, then in half widthwise. Line a baking sheet with foil and cooking spray. Lay zucchini on the sheet and season with salt and pepper.
- Make Lemon Garlic Mixture: Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon peel, garlic, and oregano in a small bowl. Drizzle over zucchini. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
- Roast: Bake for 15 minutes, or until lightly golden brown. For crisp edges, broil for the last 3 minutes.
Notes
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best flavor.
- Adjust the amount of garlic and oregano to your preference.
- You can use other herbs like thyme or basil.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 74 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 72mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 3mg