Craving a comforting and flavorful Italian classic? Look no further than this quick and delicious recipe for zucchini parmesan. Featuring tender, breaded zucchini slices, tangy marinara sauce, and melted cheese, this dish offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors. The zucchini becomes wonderfully crispy on the outside while maintaining its creamy texture on the inside. Each bite is a burst of cheesy, savory goodness that will satisfy your cravings and leave you feeling satisfied. Yum!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-22 minutes
- Total Time: 35-37
Ingredients
- 2 large zucchini
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (such as oregano, basil, or thyme)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside.
- Slice the zucchini into 1/4-inch thick rounds. If the zucchini is particularly large, you can cut them in half lengthwise before slicing to create half-moon shapes.
- In a shallow dish, combine the breadcrumbs, grated parmesan cheese, dried Italian herbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Dip each zucchini slice into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off, then coat both sides with the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere to the zucchini.
- Place the coated zucchini slices on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven and spoon marinara sauce over each eggplant slice. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top.
- Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired, then serve and enjoy!
Notes
Before breading the zucchini slices, you can sprinkle them with salt and let them sit for about 10 minutes to draw out any excess moisture. Pat them dry before proceeding with the breading process. For a lighter version, you can bake the breaded zucchini slices instead of frying them. Simply place them on a greased baking sheet and bake at 425°F (220°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. Use a high-quality marinara sauce or consider making your own for the best flavor. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as provolone or fontina, to add variety to your dish. Serve the zucchini parmesan with a side of spaghetti or your favorite pasta, and a fresh green salad for a complete meal. Enjoy!
*Please keep in mind that the following nutritional information is based on estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 840mg
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
