Crispy Parmesan Zucchini: Quick and Easy Vegetable Side Dish

Category: Perfectly Savory Sides

Need a quick veggie side dish? These parmesan-crusted zucchini rounds are crispy outside, tender inside, and ready in just 25 minutes.

Sarah
Created By Sarah John
Updated on Tue, 21 Jan 2025 10:33:06 GMT
A plate of crispy, golden-brown breaded zucchini slices topped with fresh basil leaves, with a side of sliced cucumber and a bowl of dip in the background. Save
A plate of crispy, golden-brown breaded zucchini slices topped with fresh basil leaves, with a side of sliced cucumber and a bowl of dip in the background. | kitchenscroll.com

I started making these crispy parmesan zucchini fries when I was looking for creative ways to use up my summer garden zucchini. Now they've become my favorite way to sneak more veggies onto everyone's plate. The combination of tender zucchini and that golden cheesy crust is absolutely irresistible. Even my veggie-skeptic friends can't resist grabbing seconds.

What Makes These Extra Special

These aren't your ordinary veggie fries. The parmesan creates this amazing crispy coating that's full of flavor while the zucchini stays perfectly tender inside. I love serving them as a healthy snack but they're also perfect alongside burgers or sandwiches. My kids actually get excited when they see me making them.

What You'll Need

  • Zucchini: 2 fresh zucchinis, sliced into fry-like strips for easy coating and even cooking.
  • Parmesan Cheese: 100 grams of grated Parmesan for a cheesy crust.
  • Seasonings: 1 teaspoon marjoram, 1 teaspoon paprika, salt, and black pepper to taste.
  • Breading: 100 grams breadcrumbs and 50 grams flour for a crispy coating.
  • Eggs: 3 beaten eggs to bind the coating to the zucchini.
  • Olive Oil: For frying to golden perfection.

Let's Make Some Fries

Prepare The Zucchini
Slice zucchinis into strips and sprinkle with salt. Let sit briefly, then squeeze out excess moisture using a clean towel or cheesecloth.
Prepare The Coating
In one bowl, mix breadcrumbs and flour. In another bowl, beat eggs and stir in Parmesan cheese, marjoram, and paprika.
Coat The Zucchini
Roll the zucchini strips in the breadcrumb-flour mix, then dip them into the egg mixture to coat thoroughly.
Fry To Perfection
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry zucchini for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
Drain And Serve
Place cooked zucchini on paper towels to remove excess oil. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
A plate of crispy, golden-brown zucchini slices is garnished with fresh basil leaves. Save
A plate of crispy, golden-brown zucchini slices is garnished with fresh basil leaves. | kitchenscroll.com

My Secret Tips

Getting super crispy fries is all about technique. Make sure your oil is nice and hot before adding the zucchini and don't crowd the pan. I always give my zucchini a good pat down after salting it really helps with the crispiness. Sometimes I use my air fryer when I want a quicker healthier option.

Good For You Too

The best part about these fries is they're actually pretty healthy. Zucchini is packed with vitamins A C and K plus you get protein and calcium from the parmesan. The olive oil adds some good fats too. It's such a fun way to eat your veggies without feeling like you're missing out on anything.

Common Questions About Cooking

→ Why cut uniform slices?

Even slices ensure all pieces cook at the same rate, giving you consistently crispy results without some pieces burning while others are undercooked.

→ Can I skip the breadcrumbs?

Yes, they're optional. The Parmesan alone will create a nice crust, but breadcrumbs add extra crunch.

→ Why pat the zucchini dry?

Removing excess moisture helps achieve better browning and prevents the coating from getting soggy.

→ Can I make these ahead?

They're best served fresh while crispy. If needed, reheat in the oven to restore some crispiness, but avoid microwaving.

→ Can I use different cheese?

Parmesan works best because it crisps nicely, but you can mix in other hard cheeses like Romano or Asiago.

Crispy Parmesan Zucchini

These golden-crusted zucchini rounds combine Parmesan cheese with seasonings for a crispy exterior and tender interior. Perfect as a side dish or snack.

Preparation Time
10 minutes
Cooking Duration
15 minutes
Total Time Required
25 minutes
Created By: Sarah John

Recipe Category: Perfect Sides

Skill Level Required: Ideal for Beginners

Cuisine Style: Italian-American

Recipe Output: 4 Number of Servings (1 baking sheet)

Dietary Preferences: Low in Carbs, Vegetarian-Friendly, Gluten-Free

What You'll Gather

Contains 01 items 3 medium zucchinis, sliced 1/2-inch thick.
Contains 02 items 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese.
Contains 03 items 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional).
Contains 04 items 1 teaspoon garlic powder.
Contains 05 items 1 teaspoon onion powder.
Contains 06 items 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional).
Contains 07 items Salt and pepper to taste.
Contains 08 items 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter.
Contains 09 items Chopped fresh parsley (optional garnish).

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 01

Wash and dry thoroughly. Slice into 1/2-inch rounds. Ensure uniform thickness.

Step 02

Preheat to 425°F. Line baking sheet with parchment.

Step 03

Mix Parmesan. Add breadcrumbs if using. Add all seasonings. Stir to combine.

Step 04

Arrange zucchini on sheet. Brush with oil or butter. Top with Parmesan mixture. Press gently to adhere.

Step 05

Cook 10-15 minutes. Optional: broil 1-2 minutes for extra crispiness. Cool slightly. Garnish with parsley.

Important Tips

  1. Pat zucchini very dry for best results.
  2. Even slices ensure uniform cooking.
  3. Best served immediately while crispy.

Essential Tools

  • Baking sheet.
  • Parchment paper.
  • Mixing bowl.
  • Pastry brush.

Allergen Guidance

Double-check ingredients for allergens and consult a health expert if needed.
  • Dairy (Parmesan).
  • Wheat (if using breadcrumbs).

Nutrition Details (per serving)

This nutrition info is provided as a guide and isn't a substitute for professional medical advice.
  • Caloric Content: 180
  • Fat Amount: 12 g
  • Carbohydrates: 8 g
  • Protein Amount: 10 g