Crispy Parmesan Zucchini Slices

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Crispy Parmesan Zucchini Slices 🥒🧀

  • Prep time: 15 minutes

  • Cook time: 20 minutes

  • Total time: 35 minutes

  • Servings: 4

Ingredients

  • 2 medium zucchini, sliced diagonally into ¼-inch (½ cm) ovals

  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (finely grated works best for crusting)

  • ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (or fine plain breadcrumbs)

  • 1 large egg

  • 2 tbsp olive oil (or olive oil cooking spray)

  • ½ tsp garlic powder

  • ½ tsp Italian seasoning

  • ¼ tsp paprika

  • ½ tsp kosher salt (divided)

  • ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper

Optional Dipping Sauce (Garlic-Herb Ranch)

  • ½ cup Greek yogurt or mayonnaise

  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh dill or parsley

  • 1 small garlic clove, finely grated

  • 1 tsp lemon juice

  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prep the Oven & Tray: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. For maximum crunch, set an oven-safe wire rack on the baking sheet and coat lightly with cooking spray.

  2. Dry the Zucchini: Slice the zucchini on a slight diagonal into uniform oval slices. Lay them flat on a paper towel, sprinkle lightly with salt, and let sit for 5 minutes. Pat the surface firmly with a dry paper towel to remove excess moisture.

  3. Set Up Dredging Bowls:

    • Bowl 1: Whisk the egg with a pinch of salt and black pepper.

    • Bowl 2: Stir together the Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, and ¼ tsp black pepper.

  4. Coat the Slices: Dip each zucchini slice into the whisked egg, letting the excess drip off, then press firmly into the Parmesan-crumb mixture to coat both sides completely.

  5. Arrange & Oil: Place the slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they do not overlap. Lightly drizzle or spray the tops with olive oil to promote browning.

  6. Bake: Bake for 18–20 minutes, flipping each slice carefully halfway through, until the crust is deep golden brown and crisp.

  7. Broil (Optional): Switch the oven to broil for 1–2 minutes at the end for an extra crispy cheese crust (watch closely so the cheese doesn’t burn).

  8. Serve: Transfer to a serving platter immediately and serve hot with garlic-herb ranch or marinara sauce.

Air Fryer Method

  • Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).

  • Place breaded zucchini in a single layer inside the basket (cook in batches).

  • Lightly mist with olive oil spray and air fry for 8–10 minutes, flipping at the 5-minute mark, until crunchy and golden.